RELEASED LYNX FOUND DEAD

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An Iberian Lynx, that we reported to have been released back into the wild in December, has been found dead.

An initial autopsy has been inconclusive, but investigators are still hoping to piece together the pieces of the puzzle that resulted in this specimen of an endangered species not surviving in the wild, despite all the preparations carried out before the release.

This is the second death from a group of five that were released in the area of the Guarrizas River, an area that is naturally attractive to the animal.

The Iberian Lynx is the most endangered species in Spain and one of the most endangered cats in the world. The total population is estimated to be between 60 and 100 adults. If the animal does become extinct, it will be the first recorded feline extinction in 10,000 years.

The animals were all released after partaking in a captive breeding program at the La Olivilla centre.