Category Archives: Iberian Lynx

The Iberian lynx, is one of the most endangered wild cat species in the world.

The lynx was once widespread throughout the Iberian Peninsula, but habitat loss, poaching, and declining prey populations led to its near-extinction. Thanks to extensive conservation efforts, the lynx population has slowly increased in recent years, but it is still considered critically endangered.

The lynx is a symbol of conservation efforts in Spain and has become a flagship species for the conservation of Mediterranean ecosystems. A fascinating and iconic animal that holds a special place in the hearts of many nature lovers and conservationists around the world.

Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) Lince Ibérico

Overview

Lynx pardinus (Felis pardina or pardinus, Felis lynx pardina, Lynx lynx pardina)… Too many names!

Once found throughout Spain and Portugal. the Iberian lynx began to decline in the first half of the 20th century due to over hunting and trapping for the fur trade. This decline was hugely accelerated after the 1950’s with the spread of myxomatosis. A disease which decimated populations of the European rabbit, the lynx’s main prey.

From the 1980’s the Iberian lynx was considered by IUCN (the International Union for the Conservation of Nature) to be critically endangered and became known as the world’s most threatened cat species.

However, as a result of the increasing population size, the Iberian Lynx no longer qualifies for IUCN Critically Endangered status and is therefore listed as Endangered under criterion D. The improved status of this species is all due to various intensive and ongoing conservation programs.

Current populations and programs

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Conservation Success: Iberian Lynx Numbers Reach Historic High in 2024 census

Some pretty amazing news from Spain and Portugal! A Conservation Success: Iberian Lynx Numbers Reach Historic High in 2024 census.

The total census of Iberian lynx now stands at 2,021 individuals. This includes 1,299 adults or subadults and 722 cubs born last year. After surpassing 1,000 specimens in 2020, the Iberian population has doubled in just three years.

Read about the Iberian Lynx here.

2023 census findings

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) census in Spain and Portugal for 2023 showed significant growth. The species has exceeded 2,000 specimens, a new record since detailed population monitoring began.

This is highlighted in the report by the Iberian lynx working group, coordinated by the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge (MITECO). The group includes representatives from Spanish autonomous communities and the Institute for the Conservation of Nature and Forests (ICNF) of Portugal.

Distribution of lynxes

The report indicates a total of 2,021 lynxes, with 1,730 in Spain (85.6%) and 291 in Portugal. Four Spanish autonomous communities host stable populations. Andalucía has 755 specimens, 43.6% of the Spanish population. Castilla-La Mancha has 715 lynxes (41.3%). Extremadura has 253 specimens, and the Region of Murcia has seven.

Continue reading Conservation Success: Iberian Lynx Numbers Reach Historic High in 2024 census

Wildmoral wildlife tours

Wildmoral wildlife tours specialize in a range of locations in Spain and their nature tourism offerings encompass:

  • Wildlife watching tours
  • Photography tours
  • Interpretive walking
  • Wildlife watching trails
  • Tracking days
  • Photography courses
  • Nature orientated family activities.
Lynx watching from a hide in Andújar (Andalucia)

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of the Mediterranean forest and capture stunning photographs of the magnificent Iberian lynx from a specialized hide.

Wildmoral lynx tours

Located in the serene countryside of Andújar, Jaén, this hide offers a prime vantage point in a clearing, where lynxes frequently cross while on the move or hunting. With its spacious window and comfortable setup for up to 5 photographers, you can observe the lynxes natural behavior while remaining hidden, ensuring an unforgettable photography experience.

Bear watching in the Somiedo Natural Park (Asturias)

This tour takes place in the Somiedo Natural Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe the majestic Cantabrian brown bear and other wildlife.

Wildmoral bear tours

Based in Pola de Somieda, Asturias, a prime location for bear sightings, Wildmoral provide up to four observation points equipped with telescopes. While sightings depend on day to day conditions, there are options to explore stunning trails, keeping an eye out for chamois, red deer, roe deer, wildcats, wild boar, and possibly even Iberian wolves.

You can choose an all-inclusive option or, if you are in the area you can join in with scheduled activities.

Wolf watching in the Sierra de Culebra (Castilla y Leon)

The Sierra de la Culebra mountain area in Zamora is known for its dense population of Iberian wolves and long-standing family groups. there are four observation sessions at key spots equipped with telescopes, offering a chance to witness these magnificent creatures.

Wildmoral wolf tours

While encounters depend on nature and its conditions, there are also outings for tracking trails, learning how to identify Iberian wolf tracks and exploring the local wildlife. Also included is a visit the Iberian Wolf Centre in Puebla de Sanabria for a guided tour, where you’ll gain valuable insights into the animals’ behavior, their relationship with humans, and the opportunity to observe them in semi-freedom.

You can choose an all-inclusive option or, if you are in the area you can join in with scheduled activities.

Photography hides across Spain

For those seeking a closer connection with nature, Wildmoral also provide a selection of photography hides. These hides offer a unique opportunity to capture unforgettable moments and take photographs of the wildlife.

See our dedicated page for Wildlife hides in Spain here: https://wildsideholidays.co.uk/finding-wildlife-photography-hides-in-spain/

Contact details for Wildmoral wildlife tours

Ronda Today

Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/

The Caminito del Rey

Find tickets for the Caminito del Rey: https://www.caminodelrey.es/

Wildside Holidays – Spain

Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.

Iberia Nature Forum

Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum!

Discover the Iberia Nature Forum – Environment, geography, nature, landscape, climate, culture, history, rural tourism and travel.

Iberian Lynx News Roundup 2023: Positive Census Results and Conservation Efforts

The recently published 2022 Iberian lynx census brings great news from Portugal and Spain. The total lynx population now stands at 1,668, including 1,105 adults and immatures, along with 563 cubs. Notably, the census records 326 reproductive or “territorial” females. This Iberian Lynx News Roundup 2023 has been translated from the official Life LYNXCONNECT project website.

Read about the Iberian Lynx in more details here: https://wildsideholidays.co.uk/iberian-lynx-lynx-pardinus-lince-iberico/

Life LYNXCONNECT Conservation project

Achieving the conservation goal of moving the Iberian lynx from ‘endangered’ to ‘vulnerable’ status, as per the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, requires 750 breeding females in the wild. If this target is reached, it would represent a remarkable recovery of this critically endangered species.

Continue reading Iberian Lynx News Roundup 2023: Positive Census Results and Conservation Efforts