In July, the Lynx UK Trust submitted an application to carry out a trial re-introduction of six Eurasian lynx to Kielder Forest.If permission is given, the four females and two males would be intently studied over a five-year period – amassing information that could indicate whether a full re-introduction can be carried out with more individuals across a wider area.The Trust has already produced comprehensive scientific data from across Europe that clearly proves lynx have a negligible impact on sheep populations.It has also promised above-market-rate compensation for any attacks that do occur, grants for farmers to improve sheep welfare and research into reducing sheep predation by all species.However, despite these offerings, concerns remain and a number of farming unions and groups are opposed to any reintroduction.Dr Paul O’Donoghue, chief scientific advisor for the Trust, said: “This will hopefully give them a great deal of confidence if the largest insurance market in the world is offering to cover any kind of attacks on livestock by lynx during a trial.”The cover, arranged through a specialist division of Lloyds of London – Lloyds Syndicate ARK Speciality Programs, also extends to attacks on pets and humans.