A guide to the Iberian Lynx

What is an Iberian lynx?

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a medium-sized wild cat species native to the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, including Portugal and Spain.

What does the Iberian lynx look like?

The Iberian lynx is a medium-sized wild cat, similar in size to the Eurasian lynx but smaller than the North American lynx. It has a distinctive appearance, with a short, stubby tail, tufted ears, and distinctive black tufts of hair on the tips of its ears. The coat of the Iberian lynx is short and soft, and varies in color from reddish-brown to grayish-brown, with dark spots and stripes that form a pattern unique to each individual. The belly and chest are white, with black spots. Males are larger than females, weighing around 12-14 kg on average, while females weigh around 9-10kg on average. They have powerful legs and sharp claws that are adapted for hunting small prey like rabbits.

Where do Iberian lynx live?

The Iberian lynx is found in two isolated populations in southern Spain, specifically in the Doñana National Park and surrounding areas, as well as the Sierra Morena range. Efforts are underway to protect and expand its habitat, as it is one of the most endangered wild cat species in the world.

There have been a number of reintroductions to Andalusia and Portugal which have been successful in increasing the number of Iberian lynx within the land it previously roamed.

What is the habitat of the Iberian lynx?

The Iberian lynx inhabits Mediterranean scrubland, oak and cork oak forests, and grasslands in the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe, specifically in southern Spain. These habitats provide suitable cover and food for the lynx’s primary prey, the European rabbit. Conservation efforts are aimed at restoring and improving the quality of these habitats to support the survival and recovery of the species.

What do Iberian lynx eat?

The Iberian lynx primarily feeds on the European rabbit, which makes up over 80% of its diet. However, it is also known to occasionally eat other small mammals, such as rodents, hares, and birds, as well as larger prey such as deer, though this is less common. The lynx is a skilled and opportunistic hunter, using its keen senses and stealth to stalk and pounce on its prey. Its specialized teeth and strong jaws allow it to quickly dispatch its prey with a bite to the neck. The Iberian lynx is a solitary hunter and typically consumes one rabbit per day, though this can vary depending on the availability of prey and other factors.

Does the Iberian lynx have any predators?

The Iberian lynx is an apex predator in its ecosystem, meaning it has no natural predators. However, lynx kittens may be vulnerable to predation by other carnivores such as foxes, wolves, and feral dogs. Adult lynx are generally not threatened by these predators but may come into conflict with humans, particularly through habitat loss, hunting, and road accidents. Conservation efforts are aimed at reducing these threats and protecting the lynx’s habitat to support its recovery.

Are the Iberian lynx endangered?

The Iberian lynx is one of the most endangered wild cat species in the world and is classified as “Endangered” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. In the past, the lynx population declined drastically due to habitat loss, hunting, and disease, with only an estimated 100 individuals remaining in the wild by 2002. However, conservation efforts such as habitat restoration, captive breeding and reintroduction, and reducing threats have helped to stabilize and increase the population in recent years. As of 2021, the estimated population of Iberian lynx in the wild is around 1,111 individuals, which is still a relatively low number.

How many Iberian lynx are left in the world?

According to the latest estimates, as of 2021, there are around 1,111 Iberian lynx left in the world. This is a significant increase from the low point of around 100 individuals in the early 2000s, but the species is still considered to be highly endangered. The majority of the Iberian lynx population is found in two isolated populations in southern Spain, with smaller populations in Portugal and other parts of Spain. Conservation efforts such as habitat restoration, captive breeding and reintroduction, and reducing threats have been successful in stabilizing and increasing the population, but continued conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival and recovery of the species.

How can we help to save the Iberian lynx?

There are a number of ways in which you can help the Iberian lynx. The first is donating to organisations that have active conservation efforts in place to protect their habitat and increase population numbers. Organisations like these can always benefit from additional support. The second way that you can help is by raising awareness of the threats posed to the Iberian lynx so that more people will want to get involved and help this species.

To support our conservation efforts you can become a member of the Big Cat Sanctuary today, or buy a membership for a friend or family member. Or, to get up close and personal with our resident cats you can book a big cat experience today.