Iberian lynx
Source: Down to Earth
Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.
Context
- The Iberian Lynx's population has increased from 62 mature individuals in 2001 to over 2,000 in 2022 due to conservation efforts.
- Continued threats include fluctuating prey populations, diseases, poaching, road kills, and habitat changes due to climate change.
Details
Key Points
- Conservation Status and Efforts:
- IUCN status: From 'Endangered' to 'Vulnerable' as of June 20.
- Population increased from 62 mature individuals in 2001 to over 2,000 including young lynx in 2022.
- Key conservation efforts: Increasing prey (European rabbit) abundance, habitat restoration, reducing human-caused deaths, genetic diversity through translocations and breeding programs.
- Habitat and Range:
- Current habitat: Mediterranean scrub and forest in Spain and Portugal.
- Expanded habitat: From 449 km² in 2005 to at least 3,320 km².
- Future plans: Reintroduction to new sites in central and northern Spain.
- Threats and Challenges:
- Fluctuating European rabbit populations due to virus outbreaks.
- Susceptibility to diseases from domestic cats, poaching, road kills, and climate change-induced habitat alterations.
- Collaborative Conservation:
- Success attributed to collaboration between public bodies, scientific institutions, NGOs, private companies, community members, and EU LIFE project support.
Sources:
Down to Earth
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q. With reference to the conservation efforts for the Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardinus), consider the following statements: 1.Translocations and an ex-situ breeding program have been key to increasing the lynx's population. 2.The species' habitat has expanded from 449 km² in 2005 to over 3,000 km². 3.Major threats include habitat loss due to deforestation and illegal hunting. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A) 1 only B) 1 and 2 only C) 2 and 3 only D) 1, 2, and 3 Answer: B) |
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