Iberian lynx
A species of Lynxes, Also known as Pardel lynx Scientific name : Lynx pardinus Genus : Lynxes
Iberian lynx, A species of Lynxes
Also known as:
Pardel lynx
Scientific name: Lynx pardinus
Genus: Lynxes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By José María Alvarez , used under CC-BY-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The habitat of the Iberian lynx is the Mediterranean bush forest. Its specialization in a certain habitat, wild rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) as prey, whose population collapsed due to disease, more precisely through the myxomatosis viruses released in the 1950s, and its increasingly fragmented distribution area have led to the fact that the Iberian lynx is one of the most endangered Cat species worldwide. Since 2001, the Spanish government has been trying to protect this species from extinction through a conservation breeding program, as has been the case in Portugal since 1999.
General Info
Lifespan
13-17 years
Diet
The dietary pattern of iberian lynx is decidedly carnivorous, primarily consuming rabbits. Its diet is comprised significantly of European rabbit (over 80%), although it will also eat birds, rodents, and, less frequently, ungulates in the absence of rabbit population.
Appearance
Iberian lynx is a medium-sized cat with a sleek torso and dense fur. Its coat is heavily spotted, featuring a pale yellow-brown color mixed with black markings. It has a short tail with a black tip and tufted ears, characteristic of this species. The males are slightly larger and have a more defined muscle structure than females.
Behavior
Iberian lynx is a solitary, nocturnal carnivore, famed for its stealthy, stalking hunting style, and swift agility. It marks its territory using urine and claw marks. Adapted to its Mediterranean forest habitat, iberian lynx performs effective camouflage, with daily activities predominantly focused on pursuing prey like rabbits and rodents.
Population
Increasing
Photo By José María Alvarez , used under CC-BY-2.5 /Cropped and compressed from original