Two lynx are on the loose in the Scottish Highlands in what is suspected to be an “illegal release”.

On Wednesday evening, the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA) announced that the animals were at large within its grounds.

The CNPA says it was working alongside Police Scotland to establish what happened, and assured the public that the large cats were of “low risk” to the general public due to their shy nature.

“The park authority have been notified about a suspected illegal release of two lynx in the Cairngorms national park,” a spokesperson said.

“Police Scotland have been informed and are working closely with partners (including the Park Authority) to establish the full picture and take appropriate action.

“We condemn the illegal release of wild animals in the strongest possible terms and we are also concerned for the welfare of the lynx that have been released.

“Whilst they are shy animals and low risk to humans, we would ask anyone who does spot a lynx not to approach nor to attend the area.”

The CNPA said it would be inappropriate to comment further as it is an ongoing police investigation.

Highland Wildlife Park is assisting the park authority in tracing the animals, echoing the CNPA’s call to avoid them if seen.

“Although these are not our lynx, we are working closely with Police Scotland and partners to safely retrieve the animals,” a spokesperson said.

Police Scotland confirmed it was looking into the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward.