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Writer's pictureJennifer J

A Profile Of The Iberian Lynx



The Iberian Lynx is one of the world’s most gorgeous animals. Even though they are cats, these animals are also unique with their distinctive ears and fur under their chin.


But sadly, these beautiful cats are one of the world’s most endangered animals. There is only a handful of them left today, with their historic range has now declined by 80%, which means that Iberian Lynxes have lost 80% of the land they once roamed on.


What Is The Population Of The Iberian Lynx Today?


The population of the Iberian Lynx today is very low, there are only a handful of Iberian Lynxes left in the wild today. The population of the Iberian Lynx was 156 mature cats the last time that they were assessed by the IUCN in 2014.


Another estimate of the cats population since 2014, has their population much higher: LIFE Iberlince studied the cats in 2015 and found that their population is 404 mature cats. Therefore, the population of the Iberian Lynx is estimated to be from 156 to 404 cats.


What Is The Population Trend For These Cats?


The population of the Iberian Lynx has been increasing the last few times their population was assessed, and still today, it looks like that increase has remained, as they do not seem to be declining today.


What Is Their Conservation Status?


Although the Iberian Lynx has seen an increase in their population, these cats are endangered. Therefore, the Iberian Lynx is an endangered species today.




What Threats In The Wild Do Iberian Lynxes Have?


There are several threats that Iberian Lynxes face, which could result in them becoming extinct.


These threats are:


. Habitat destruction


. Roads and railways


. Hunting and trapping of the Lynxes


These are just some of the many threats that Iberian Lynxes face in the wild today.


Where Are Iberian Lynxes Found?


Iberian Lynxes are only found in two countries: Spain and Portugal.


What Was The Historic Range Of The Iberian Lynx?


The Iberian Lynx was once found in France and Italy like it is found in Spain and Portugal.


What Is The Habitat Of These Cats?


These cats have a few habitats. Their habitats are forests, woodlands, and shrublands.


What Do These Animals Eat?


Iberian Lynxes mostly eat rabbits. They are carnivores and they also have been known to eat other small animals, such as ducks and small deers.


What Is Their Breeding Season?


These cats breed in the winter months and are pregnant for about 60 days. The female Iberian Lynx usually gives birth in the Spring, in March or April every year.



How Many Babies Does The Female Have?


The female Iberian Lynx will usually give birth to about 3 kittens each time she gives birth.


Some More Information About Them


Their Kingdom: Animalia


Iberian Lynxes belong to the animal kingdom.


Their Class: Mammalia


These animals are mammals.


Their Family: Felidae


Or, felines - Iberian Lynxes belong to the cat family.


Their Scientific Name: Lynx pardinus


Fun Fact: ‘Lynx’ in Greek means ‘to shine’.


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