In recent years, the Iberian lynx has seen a remarkable recovery thanks to conservation efforts. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has moved the species from the “endangered” category to “vulnerable” due to a significant increase in its population. From just 62 mature individuals in 2001, the population has grown to 648 in 2022, with an estimated overall population of over 2,000 when young lynx are included.
Conservation efforts have focused on increasing the population of the wild rabbit, the lynx’s main food source, which is also endangered. Additionally, releasing captive lynxes and restoring natural habitats have played a key role in the species’ recovery. Francisco Javier Salcedo Ortiz, a key coordinator in the conservation efforts, hailed this achievement as one of the greatest accomplishments in cat species conservation.
Despite this progress, there is still work to be done to ensure the survival of these animals and continue their recovery. Plans are in place to reintroduce the Iberian lynx to new areas in central and northern Spain to expand their habitat even further.
However, while the Iberian lynx’s population and occupied territory have increased significantly in recent years, caution must be exercised against complacency. The species still faces threats such as diseases from domestic cats and wild rabbit populations, as well as poaching and road accidents. It is important that conservation efforts continue to ensure their long-term survival and recovery.
