Lynx dies after being captured in Cairngorms

Helen Senn, head of conservation at the RZSS, said: "Unfortunately overnight we've had the news that one of the lynx didn't make it. It was found dead this morning."

The cause of death is currently unknown.

She added that a full post-mortem examination would be carried out but the results would not be known for a few days.

Ms Senn said: "Whatever the case, this unfortunate development just serves to further demonstrate the folly of abandoning these amazing animals in the wild, with no preparation or real concern for their welfare.

"We can only imagine the stress that all four of the recovered lynx must have experienced after being thrust into an entirely new and extremely harsh environment to fend for themselves.

"Our team of expert keepers and veterinarians will now ensure that they get the best possible care moving forward."

Temperatures in the area had plunged to as low as -14C, Ms Senn added.

Typically the average low in northern Scotland for this time of year is about 0.3C.