The discovery of an extinct species: Data for the recent presence of the Lynx (Lynx lynx L.) in Bulgaria and discussion of its status since 1941

The accumulated data for the possible or probable presence of the lynx (Lynx lynx) in Bulgaria after the date considered as an official extinction of the animal in the country (1941) are discussed. New reliable data for the recent presence of this carnivore are presented proving its existence in the recent mammal fauna of Bulgaria as well as the beginning of a recovery process from North-West. The possible existence of an unknown local population in Strandja region is also discussed.