Hi, December 12, International Iberian Lynx Day 2024we pay tribute to this emblematic species by analyzing the keys that led to its conservation. Symbol of biodiversity in the Iberian PeninsulaHe Iberian lynx has experienced a surprising rebirth over the past twenty years, from endangered to threatened multiplication. A factor that raises hope for conservationists and nature lovers.
Until a few years ago, the Iberian lynx was in an extremely delicate situation. But the efforts of the authorities and NGOs have made it possible to reverse this situation. This has been achieved thanks to the fight against poachingthe reintroduction of rabbits and the captive breeding programs j reintegration.
A victim of various factors, the species numbered only 100 individuals in 2002. A ridiculous number compared to more than 100,000 at the beginning of the 20th century. This situation led to it being classified «in critical danger» of extinction in the IUCN Red List.
But the efforts of the authorities and NGOs have made it possible to reverse this trend. And they did this through various programs and the establishment of breeding centers in Spain and Portugal. In 2020, an increase in population was recorded for the first time, with 1,100 individuals being counted and Today it exceeds the 2,000 mark.
Although still endangered, this feline with characteristic long, pointed ears topped with a fine tuft and thick white whiskers is beginning to make progress. Their numbers have multiplied in Andalusia. And it has returned to the Spanish regions from which it disappeared, such as Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha, but also to Portugal.
The danger still lurks
The breeding programs are not only aimed at breeding these beautiful felines, but are also very closely monitored.. Everyone born in the centers is carefully cared for. And they are released equipped with a GPS collar.
This control system is one of the guarantees for the protection of the Iberian lynx. This tracks their movements. They are supplied with food (rabbits) when there is a shortage of prey in their natural environment. And their behavior is studied.
But the danger has not yet passed for the Iberian lynx. Unfortunately the traffic accidentsthe illegal capture of specimens and the the disappearance of their natural preyis detrimental to their survival.
Rabbits have fallen victim to various diseases such as myxomatosis or hemorrhagic viral disease, among others. These have decimated entire populations, leaving lynx and other animals that depend on them for survival, as they form the basis of their diet, on the brink of starvation.
That’s why, Despite the very good results of recovery and reintroduction programs, the IUCN maintains ‘Lynx pardinus’ in the ‘endangered’ category.. And experts point this out Until the number of animals in the wild does not exceed 30,000 individuals, the species cannot be considered recovered and safe..