Lynx poaching in the Gruyère district: Authority requests information from the public
On 17 October 2025, a lynx was found dead in La Roche. The animal showed injuries likely caused by a projectile. The autopsy revealed that this was a case of poaching, occurring approximately seven to nine weeks ago. For the investigation, the Forest and Nature Office is requesting information from the public.
On Friday, 17 October 2025, a game warden discovered the carcass of a lynx on the municipal territory of La Roche in the Gruyère district in the canton of Fribourg, following a tip from a third party.
The animal is a female approximately eight years old (designated B606). Her well-developed teats indicate that she gave birth to one or more young this year, who are now orphaned and have little chance of survival. When the animal was found, injuries to the paws were identified, likely caused by a bullet. In accordance with applicable guidelines, the animal was immediately taken for autopsy to the Institute of Fish and Wildlife Health (FIWI) in Bern.
The analysis of the carcass confirmed the case of poaching. The injuries are approximately seven to nine weeks old (end of August/beginning of September). An investigation has been launched to identify the person who shot the lynx. In this context, the Forest and Nature Office is requesting information from the public. Persons who have information regarding this incident are asked to contact the Office by email or by telephone at +41 26 305 23 43.
As a reminder: the shooting of lynxes is strictly prohibited, as this species is protected under the Federal Act on Hunting and the Protection of Wild Mammals and Birds (JSG, SR 922.0). Poaching a lynx is punishable by a custodial sentence of one year or more, or a fine of several thousand francs.
