Iberian Lynx

My journey with this vulnerable feline began in 2014. At that time, their numbers were in the low hundreds, and they were classified by the IUCN as an endangered species. The number of animals killed annually on the road was significant enough to impact the already very low population. It was a precarious time.

It felt unjust that more people knew about the plight of Snow Leopards, thousands of miles away, than these cats right on my doorstep. Not that the Snow Leopard deserved any less protection, but their numbers were literally several times that of the Iberian Lynx at the time. Thankfully, through great conservation efforts by some truly dedicated people, their numbers have gradually grown.

Now, a decade since I fell in love with this species, I'm happy to report that we now have over two thousand individuals. They are no longer considered endangered. Though still vulnerable, it's one of the few rare conservation success stories.

This was one of two females I saw on this recent trip. She was a proud mother of three cubs. It's always an emotional encounter and a privilege.