Martin is the third lynx that was captured two days ago (31 October 2012) by MES in the Stogovo Mountain in the area of Kichevo. Having captured the lynx, the team sedated, weighed and measured it, and then took blood and hair samples for genetic analysis. After they successfully put a GPS collar, Martin was released into the wild.
Martin was trapped in an oak forest on steep ground. The lynx age is estimated to be 3-5 years, the length of the body is 98 cm and the weight of 24 kg.
This is the third lynx in the last three years which got a GPS collar, with the help of which the lynx movement can be monitored. Marco, the first lynx, was captured in the Mavrovo National park in March 2010; and Riste, the second lynx, in March 2012 in the area of Lopushnik, Kichevo.
Using GPS and VHF technology, Martin will be sending data about its movement. MES will use the data in order to monitor the lynx. Collected data will have enormous significance and it will be used as source of information for the lynx biology and ecology. After comparing the data received from the previously captured lynx individuals, Marco and Riste, it will be established whether this individual is moving in nearby areas.
All data will be used to prepare precise protection measures for the Balkan lynx.