Mammals of Spain

Spain is home to a remarkable diversity of mammals, from iconic land species to rare marine inhabitants. On land, the Iberian lynx, wild boar, and European wildcat roam forests, mountains, and grasslands, while herds of deer and ibex thrive in the sierras. Along its coasts, Spain’s waters host dolphins, whales, and the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. This variety reflects Spain’s diverse habitats, from the Pyrenees to Mediterranean wetlands. Conservation programs aim to protect these mammals against threats like habitat loss, climate change, and human activity, ensuring their survival for future generations.

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

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To date, 238 specimens of Iberian lynx have been born in the breeding centres of El Acebuche and Zarza de Granadilla with 150 released in different areas of the Iberian Peninsula.

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.

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Two species of hedgehog in Spain.

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Atelerix algirus - The North African hedgehog

There are two species of hedgehog in Spain and their distribution is slightly different. The European hedgehog can be found throughout most of mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. The North African hedgehog, on the other hand, is mostly found in the southern and eastern regions of Spain, particularly in Andalusia and the Valencian Community. … Read more

Iberian lynx in Murcia

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Iberian lynx Mammals of Spain - Reintroducion of Iberian lynx. Wildlife, natural parks and culture in Spain

Recently, three Iberian lynx specimens – Tiko, Torrealvilla, and Tahúlla – were introduced to the region of Murcia as part of the Life Lynxconnect project. This initiative aims to connect existing lynx populations in Spain and create new centers for this endangered species. The regional government of Murcia invested 400,000 euros in this project, which … Read more