The Iberian lynx is established in Extremadura after a decade of reintroduction.

The Iberian lynx ( Lynx pardinus ) has reached an estimated population of 164 individuals in Extremadura, including 28 breeding females, according to a new scientific study published in the Journal of Applied Ecology . This figure marks a turning point after ten years of intensive conservation efforts.

The research, led by biologist José Jiménez of IREC (CSIC, UCLM, JCCM), used integrated population models (IPM) to analyze the demographic evolution of this reintroduced population between 2014 and 2024. The analysis identified adult survival and reproduction as the main drivers of population growth.

The Iberian lynx, considered the most endangered feline on the planet 25 years ago, is one of the most notable success stories in wildlife conservation in Europe, thanks to captive breeding programs, controlled releases, and rigorous scientific monitoring.

Growth, but with threats

The study incorporates both retrospective and prospective analyses to assess population viability under different management scenarios. Although the current results are positive, the authors warn of the worrying increase in roadkill mortality, especially among young dispersing females.

This phenomenon, attributed to the saturation of available habitat and the search for new areas with an abundance of rabbits—their main prey—could become a serious limiting factor for future expansion if the causes are not addressed.

Researchers highlight the urgent need for measures to ensure ecological connectivity, such as building wildlife crossings and improving road safety in critical areas.

Proposals to ensure the future of the lynx

Key proposals from the study include expanding the habitat available for the species, particularly by promoting the wild rabbit, and implementing effective measures to reduce road mortality. The combination of these strategies, according to projections, would significantly increase the number of breeding females over the next 15 years.

The authors point out that these actions are viable and replicable in other regions, and could strengthen not only the Extremadura population but also its connection with other areas where the Iberian lynx is present in Spain and Portugal.

Model for the reintroduction of threatened species

This breakthrough demonstrates the usefulness of IPM models in guiding data-driven conservation decisions and reinforces the value of reintroduction as an effective tool in the face of biodiversity crises, its authors emphasize in a statement.

The published work offers a valuable roadmap for other threatened species recovery projects. The key, according to the study, is integrating high-quality field data (such as camera traps and radio tagging) with advanced modeling tools.

Photo: Archive. Matachel (Badajoz). EFE/David Palacios/Life+Iberlince