Introduction. The Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardina) stands on the brink of extinction. Just a century ago, it ranged over half
Iberian Lynx. The quiet cat Introduction The Iberian Lynx (Lynx pardina) stands on the brink of extinction. Just a century ago, it ranged over half of the Iberian peninsula. As recently as the mid nineties it was estimated to occur in a wide area of south west Spain. Today its range has shrunk dramatically to just two viable populations within Andalusia, with an estimation of approximately 200 individuals. Four main factors have combined to decimate the population. First has been hunting, a tradition in deep rural Spain. Afterwards came myxomatosis, which devastated Iberia's rabbit numbers and deprived the Iberian Lynx of 90% of its diet! Habitat destruction and fragmentation has also been a contributing factor. Southern Spain has also been developed and urbanised with many new motorways and roads and consequential traffic road-kills have dramatically affected Lynx communities. A recent census in the granite hills of this unique and remote Sierra Morena, some of the best preserved Mediterranean forest in the Iberian peninsula, has revealed a most important population of the this ‘jewel', the most endangered of the world's 36 cat species. As well as Iberian Lynx, Otter , Wild Boar, Genet , Mouflon and Red Deer occur in the area. These mountains also hold a large population of Griffon Vultures, as well as good numbers of the rare Black Vulture and Spanish Imperial Eagle. Itinerary Days 1,2,3,4 - Sierra Morena After meeting you at Malaga airport we will head north to the hills, starting our holiday with a 3-night stay in the Sierra Morena. On our way to the Sierra Morena, we will stop for lunch at a natural lake where White-headed Duck and Red Crested Pochard are residents. If we are to have a chance of a sighting of Iberian Lynx, we must spend much of our time scanning from various scenic viewpoints. From each one we will be able to overlook vast tracts of Lynx habitat. Here sightings of Lynx and other animals are often at long range, but the scenery formed by huge rock boulders is magnificent, and the birdlife is rich, being an easy place from where to enjoy such a peculiar mediterranean woodland which offers very good chances for Spanish Imperial Eagle & Black Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Golden Eagle, Sardinian Warbler, the Spanish race of Green Woodpecker, Hawfinch, Firecrest, Iberian Grey Shrike, and Eagle Owl. Our accommodation here is a traditional guest house, similar to Boletas, and situated in the heart of the beautiful mediterranean woodland. All rooms have en suite facilities. Food is first class including local specialities, Goat Leg, Partridge Pâté, Sea-bass, local Chorizo and Cheese all accompanied with good local wines. Day 5- Early morning birding before driving back to Malaga airport to take your flight home Dates: January per year
http://www.boletas.org/spainiberianlynx.html
Tour Cost: From £757Group Size: 8 pax For all TOURS our terms include:
Meet/ deliver you at airport. Accommodation in twin-bedded rooms with facilities. Breakfast, dinner & "tapas" or pic-nic (not first day). Free wine and tea in the Spanish tours Transport for all excursions in a comfortable vehicle without any extra cost English speaking expert guides. Taxes Not included flight tickets & travel insurance
http://www.boletas.org/spainiberianlynx.html
