Lynx in Spain
Iberian Lynx, Spain, 2025
Conservation
Once on the red endangered list the population has significantly increased thanks to reintroduction and conservation projects, with the population increasing from 62 mature individuals in 2001 to 648 in 2022. Today, the total population, including young and mature ones, is estimated to exceed 2000 individuals. Now listed as vulnerable instead of endangered its great to see such success at saving such a beautiful animal.
Iberian Lynx
sitting in the sunken hides of PEÑALAJO you are at eye level with the watering hole looking through one way glass, waiting in silence for the chance to see the Lynx. With temperatures reaching 39 celsius it was a tad hot inside at times!
The first time the Lynx appeared sent the heart racing and it took some control to remember to take photos that would be worth processing later! A female called Queen arrived with 3 out of her four kits to take a drink and grab some shade from the morning sun. We would see her family a few times over the next few days. The last visit was the special, just two kits arrived without mum, had a drink, stretch, preen and some great inter actions. Such a pleasure to witness.
Green Woodpecker
A species I have been meaning to track down in the UK for many years just popped down for a drink and bath one day, Watching this shy woodpecker up the courage to approach the watering hole and take a bath was a special moment. Over the next few days we say him a few times, each as cautious as the first.
Red Legged Partridge
One species that was not in sort supply was the Red Legged Partridge, same bird we have in the moorlands of the UK. Another species that was on the list to go track down at home, that spent a lot of time at the watering holes in some fantastic evening light. Quite a comical bird when you watch them for a while.
Great Company
Finally any trip is enhanced by the company you spend you time with. As always Tracey from Wild Aperture planned an excellent trip, taking care of all the little things so we could focus on enjoying the trip and taking photos. John and Glenys completed the group and were a pleasure to travel and spend time with. Looking forward to seeing there images.
