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Iberian lynx

22nd June, 2024

Iberian lynx

Source: Down to Earth

Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

  • The Iberian Lynx's population has increased from 62 mature individuals in 2001 to over 2,000 in 2022 due to conservation efforts.
  • Continued threats include fluctuating prey populations, diseases, poaching, road kills, and habitat changes due to climate change.

Details

Key Points

  • Conservation Status and Efforts:
    • IUCN status: From 'Endangered' to 'Vulnerable' as of June 20.
    • Population increased from 62 mature individuals in 2001 to over 2,000 including young lynx in 2022.
    • Key conservation efforts: Increasing prey (European rabbit) abundance, habitat restoration, reducing human-caused deaths, genetic diversity through translocations and breeding programs.
  • Habitat and Range:
    • Current habitat: Mediterranean scrub and forest in Spain and Portugal.
    • Expanded habitat: From 449 km² in 2005 to at least 3,320 km².
    • Future plans: Reintroduction to new sites in central and northern Spain.
  • Threats and Challenges:
    • Fluctuating European rabbit populations due to virus outbreaks.
    • Susceptibility to diseases from domestic cats, poaching, road kills, and climate change-induced habitat alterations.
  • Collaborative Conservation:
    • Success attributed to collaboration between public bodies, scientific institutions, NGOs, private companies, community members, and EU LIFE project support.

Sources:

Down to Earth

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. With reference to the conservation efforts for the Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardinus), consider the following statements:

1.Translocations and an ex-situ breeding program have been key to increasing the lynx's population.

2.The species' habitat has expanded from 449 km² in 2005 to over 3,000 km².

3.Major threats include habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal hunting.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 1 and 2 only

C) 2 and 3 only

D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B)