NEWQUAY Zoo has welcomed a new litter of Carpathian lynx kittens, which marks another success story for the attraction’s breeding programme,.

Proud parents Kicsi and Onyx have expanded their family for the second time continuing the legacy of what has become one of Cornwall's most celebrated animal families.

The pair have proven themselves to be devoted parents, and their latest additions represent hope for one of Europe's most magnificent wildcats. Every birth at Newquay Zoo contributes to the survival of the Carpathian lynx as there are fewer than 2,300 remaining in the wild across the continent.

The Carpathian lynx disappeared from much of its former territory but is slowly making a comeback through carefully managed programmes. Newquay Zoo's breeding success demonstrates how local institutions can make a global difference in conservation.

Each new kitten born at the zoo represents hope for the future of these elusive predators, whether they are destined for life in the wild or for the equally important role of ensuring the species continues to thrive for generations to come.

The new arrivals come at an exciting time for the lynx family, as their older sister has recently made headlines across Europe. Originally selected for the ambitious Linking Lynx rewilding programme, the young female has found her calling in a different but equally important role - as a future breeding mum at Zoo Karlsruhe in Germany.

Researchers discovered that her strengths lie in raising the next generation rather than hunting in the wild after months of careful assessment. Far from being disappointed, conservation experts are celebrating this outcome as it provides invaluable insights for future programmes.

John Meek, the curator at Newquay Zoo, said: "This has given us crucial knowledge that will help us better prepare other lynx for release. Modern conservation is about recognising that every animal has a role to play. While direct release wasn't right for this particular lynx, she's contributing to conservation in an equally vital way."

The experience has helped scientists develop better methods for identifying which lynx have the best chances of thriving in the wild, knowledge that's already being applied to improve preparation for future candidates across Europe.

The success highlights to Newquay Zoo how important local breeding programmes are to conservation efforts. The attraction’s commitment to maintaining genetically diverse populations means that whether kittens are destined for the wild or for breeding programmes, they're all contributing to the species' recovery.

Mr Meek said: "Every visitor to Newquay Zoo is supporting this important work. Our community plays a crucial role in protecting these magnificent cats and helping restore wild populations across Europe."