Introduction: The Iberian Lynx Recovery at Risk
The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) was once the world’s most endangered wild cat, reduced to fewer than 100 individuals in the early 2000s. Thanks to over two decades of conservation work, including habitat restoration and captive breeding, the population has grown to more than 2,000 across Spain and Portugal.
Listen to the podcast about “Why Spain’s Iberian Lynx Rewilding Success Is Now Under Threat”
However, this remarkable recovery is now under threat. Farmers and hunting groups are pressuring regional governments to block further lynx reintroductions, risking decades of progress.
Why Are Farmers and Hunters Opposing the Iberian Lynx?
Regional authorities in parts of Spain, such as Aragón and Catalonia, have bowed to demands from farmers and hunting lobbies. Opponents claim that the Iberian lynx preys on livestock, rabbits, and partridges, harming rural livelihoods.
However, leading experts, including Ramón Pérez de Ayala of WWF, point out that actual lynx attacks on livestock are extremely rare. Instead, much of the opposition stems from political tensions, particularly involving the far-right Vox party, which has used the lynx debate to promote its pro-farmer agenda.
Political Tensions Blocking Rewilding Projects
- In Aragón, former agriculture minister Ángel Samper (Vox) claimed lynx were killing sheep, despite a lack of evidence.
- Vox official Jorge Valero dismissed lynx reintroduction as unnecessary, calling it a “Jurassic Park” idea.
- In Catalonia, the government rejected plans to reintroduce lynx, wolves, and bears, favouring rabbit culling instead, despite rabbit overpopulation in key areas like Noguera and Garrigues.
Why Is the Iberian Lynx So Important?
The Iberian lynx plays a vital role in balancing ecosystems. With rabbits making up around 90% of their diet, lynx naturally control rabbit populations, which are causing agricultural damage in several regions. Reintroducing the lynx is a sustainable solution to overpopulation problems that would otherwise be managed with harmful pesticides like aluminium phosphide.
Moreover, the Iberian lynx has become a symbol of successful rewilding in Europe. Once labelled as vermin, the species has made a comeback thanks to EU-funded projects such as Life LynxConnect (2020–2025), which links isolated lynx populations and restores critical habitats.
The Success of Iberian Lynx Conservation
Thanks to coordinated efforts from national governments, the EU, wildlife organisations, and local communities, the Iberian lynx population has rebounded from the brink of extinction. Key successes include:
- The species’ conservation status improved from “Endangered” to “Vulnerable” in 2024.
- Rewilding projects have brought eco-tourism opportunities to rural areas.
Read the 2024 census report here.
Last week, Environment Minister Sara Aagesen oversaw the release of two female lynx in Murcia, raising the local population there to 20. These projects show what can be achieved when long-term conservation is prioritised.
Ongoing Threats to the Iberian Lynx
Despite the recovery, the Iberian lynx still faces several challenges:
- Habitat fragmentation, limiting genetic diversity.
- Road traffic accidents, a leading cause of lynx deaths.
- Political opposition, particularly from farming and hunting lobbies.
- Loss of prey, as rabbit populations decline in some areas.
As Pérez de Ayala explains, the lynx is often used as leverage in broader political disputes, rather than judged on its ecological benefits.
Why the Iberian Lynx Matters for Spain’s Future
The Iberian lynx is not only a conservation success but also a crucial part of Spain’s natural heritage. Its survival benefits biodiversity, strengthens rural economies through eco-tourism, and demonstrates how humans and wildlife can coexist.
As Spain’s Secretary of State for the Environment, Hugo Morán Fernández, noted:
“The problem with wiping out certain species is that eventually there’s no one left to blame for the decline of hunting or livestock farming.”
Conclusion and Further Reading: Will Political Will Protect the Iberian Lynx?
After 25 years of work, the Iberian lynx is thriving once again. However, without strong political backing and continued public support, this iconic species could become the victim of short-term interests and political infighting.
If Spain is to protect its most successful rewilding project, regional governments must prioritise science-led conservation over populist agendas. The future of the Iberian lynx — and the ecosystems it supports — depends on it.
All about the Iberian lynx.
Historic numbers of Iberian lynx in the 2024 census.
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