Iberian lynx fell to just 62 mature animals in 2001; conservation has helped push its population above 2,000

Iberian lynx fell to just 62 mature animals in 2001; conservation has helped push its population above 2,000

For much of the 20th century, the Iberian lynx was disappearing from the Spanish landscape. By 2001, only 62 mature animals were recorded, leaving one of Europe’s most distinctive wild cats perilously close to extinction. Since then, a sustained conservation programme has altered its trajectory. Reintroductions, captive breeding, habitat restoration and efforts to protect its … Read more

A rare orca known as “La Abuela” was found with wounds consistent with shotgun pellets; the suspected attack could threaten an entire Iberian population of fewer than 40 whales

A rare orca known as “La Abuela” was found with wounds consistent with shotgun pellets; the suspected attack could threaten an entire Iberian population of fewer than 40 whales

Spain’s Environment Ministry has ordered an investigation into the likely shooting of a rare Iberian orca that was filmed swimming with wounds to its dorsal fin, Deputy Prime Minister ‌Sara Aagesen said on Friday. “The oldest orca in the Strait of Gibraltar has appeared with marks compatible with pellets” fired from a shotgun this week, … Read more