Iberian lynx – comprehensive treatise focusing on conservation 2022

Conservation

The conservation of the Iberian lynx is the most important topic when discussing this rare cat. In fact, it is vital to the survivability of this animal in the wild.

Captive breeding program of the Iberian lynx has helped numbers to rebound
Captive breeding program of the Iberian lynx has helped numbers to rebound. Photo in public domain.

On May 28, 2021, an article on the Phys.org website tells us that the population of the endangered Iberian lynx has jumped 10-fold. This population increase has occurred over the past 18 years as reported by the Spanish government.

In 2020, a total of 414 Iberian Lynx were born which brings the total in Portugal and Spain to 1,111. This is a record high since the start of monitoring the species. The information comes from the Ministry for Ecological Transition.

In 2002, they reported that there were fewer than 100 individuals. This was when the first census was carried out. A major reason for this success is a captive breeding programme. The photograph above shows you one of the cats in the programme.

The statement issued by the ministry said:

“This demographic curve allows for optimism and raises scenarios that move the great Iberian feline away from the critical risk of disappearance. Nevertheless, experts ask for caution and insist on the need to keep up the effort and existing conservation programmes since the species is not out of danger.”

The Iberian Lynx CNRLI reproduction centre near Silves, Portugal
The Iberian Lynx CNRLI reproduction centre near Silves, Portugal. Photo: Wikipedia.

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