For many years the objective has been to reduce the danger of extinction of this emblematic species of Spain. The Iberian Lynx has been in the threat category of "critically endangered" according to the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature).
After all the efforts of captive breeding, ecosystem studies, habitat restoration, awareness raising and signaling of the places with the most transit of lynx, the lynx population is increasing considerably and the IUCN has reduced the degree of threat to “endangered ”.
"After 15 years of hard work in the European Life + Iberlince project, this is a source of pride," says Miguel Ángel Simón, the project manager. At first it was only thought that the Iberian Lynx could be kept in captivity and could not be reintroduced into natural ecosystems.
Simón comments that it was quite a surprise when year after year, the species was showing signs of recovery in its habitats. Thanks to this, the project was heading towards the improvement of the conditions of reintroduction of the lynx to its habitat of all the specimens born in captivity.
In 2010, the first lynx release was made in Córdoba and a year later in Jaén. Both reintroductions were successful, so the populations could be connected. As long as there is an exchange of specimens, the lynx can remain more or less stable. Although we must not forget that the species is still in danger of extinction. There is still much to do to stop it.
Finally, Miguel Simón recalls that, if we want the Lynx to come out of danger of extinction, we have to count it as a priority and be supported by the Junta de Andalucía and by the Life program of the European Union, on economic investment issues for its recovery .