Spain
Our autumn trip to Spain was focused entirely on the Iberian lynx.
The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a critically endangered species native to the Iberian Peninsula primarily found in Spain and Portugal. Once widespread its population drastically declined due to habitat loss, poaching and a decrease in prey especially the European rabbit. The Iberian lynx is characterized by its tufted ears, short tail and spotted coat. It is a solitary and nocturnal predator primarily hunting rabbits which make up most of its diet. Conservation efforts over the past few decades including habitat restoration and captive breeding programs have helped increase the population. Despite these efforts the Iberian lynx remains one of the world's most endangered cats with a population of around 1,000 individuals.
We flew from Munich to Madrid picked up our rental car and drove to Peñalajo where we spent a few days in photographic hides. The second part of our journey took us to Gato Clavo where we also spent several days using the photographic hides for our photography. Additionally we explored the surrounding area including the Parque Natural Sierra de Andújar and the Parque Nacional de las Tablas de Daimiel on our way back to Madrid.