IBERIAN WOLF

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Context

The Iberian wolf (Canis lupus signatus), the species of grey wolf native to the Iberian Peninsula comprising Spain and Portugal, has been extinct in the historic region of Andalusia in the extreme south of Iberia since 2020, according to the regional government.

Details

Habitat and Distribution

• Native to the Iberian Peninsula, which includes Spain and Portugal.
• Primarily found in forested and mountainous regions, including the Cantabrian Mountains and the Sierra Morena.
• Highly adaptable and can survive in various habitats, including agricultural landscapes

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Typically smaller than other European wolf subspecies.
• Coat: Thick and dense, with a colour range from pale grey to reddish-brown.
• Distinguishing Markings: Often have a darker stripe down their back and a distinctive facial mask.
• Carnivores: Mainly feed on wild ungulates, such as deer and wild boar.
• Opportunistic: Will scavenge and consume smaller prey if larger game is scarce.

Behaviour and Social Structure

• Pack Animals: Iberian wolves usually live in packs led by an alpha male and female.
• Social Bonds: Display strong family bonds and cooperative hunting behaviours.
• Territorial: Defend their territories against other wolf packs and potential threats.

Conservation Status

• Endangered: Listed as "Endangered" on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, human-wolf conflict, and illegal hunting.
• Legal Protection: Protected under national laws in Spain and Portugal, and also under the European Union's Habitats Directive.

Human-Wolf Conflict

• Livestock Predation: Occasionally preys on livestock, leading to conflicts with local farmers and shepherds.
• Conservation Efforts: Various conservation organisations work to mitigate conflicts and promote coexistence.

 Conservation Measures

• Habitat Restoration: Efforts to protect and restore natural habitats for the Iberian wolf's survival.
• Anti-Poaching Initiatives: Strict enforcement of laws to prevent illegal hunting and poaching.
• Human-Wolf Coexistence: Implementing measures to minimise conflicts between wolves and human activities.

MUST READ ARTICLES:

https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/indian-wolf

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/wildlife-biodiversity/the-iberian-wolf-is-extinct-in-spain-s-andalusia-report-90949