The Iberian lynx, one of the world’s rarest cats, is no longer classified as endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

On Thursday, the IUCN, which assesses species’ risk levels on its “red list,” upgraded the Iberian lynx from “endangered” to “vulnerable” following a significant population increase.

From 62 mature individuals in 2001, the lynx population surged to 648 in 2022. Including young lynxes, the estimated total population now exceeds 2,000. This wild cat species inhabits the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Spain and Portugal.

Recent census data indicates 14 stable and reproducing clusters, with 13 in Spain and one in Portugal. Historically widespread across the Iberian Peninsula, the lynx population plummeted from the 1960s due to habitat loss, poaching, and road accidents, pushing the species to the brink of extinction.

Conservation efforts have played a crucial role in the lynx’s resurgence. Key initiatives include increasing the population of its primary food source, the endangered European rabbit, and releasing hundreds of captive-bred lynxes. Additionally, habitat restoration through the revitalisation of scrublands and forests has been vital.

Mr Ortiz said there was still “a lot of work to do” to ensure the animals survive and the species can recover.

“Looking ahead, there are plans to reintroduce the Iberian lynx to new sites in central and northern Spain,” he added.

The area occupied by the Iberian lynx has expanded significantly, from 449 sq km (173 sq miles) in 2005 to 3,320 sq km today. Despite these gains, the IUCN warns against complacency. The species remains threatened by diseases from domestic cats, diseases affecting wild rabbits, poaching, and road accidents.

Established in 1964, the IUCN’s red list of threatened species is the world’s most comprehensive source of information on the global conservation status of animal, fungi, and plant species.

 

 

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