The Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests (ICNF) has revealed that the number of Iberian lynx cubs born across the various captive-breeding centres for this endangered species, in both Spain and the Algarve’s Silves, has this year exceeded that of recent years.
In total, 62 cubs were born within the breeding network, which includes the National Iberian Lynx Breeding Centre (CNRLI) in Silves, Portugal’s only facility, as well as El Acebuche, La Olivilla, Zarza de Granadilla, and Jerez Zoo in Spain, of which 48 survived.
“This is the highest figure recorded in recent seasons, consolidating the programme’s role as a driving force in the recovery of this emblematic species,” the ICNF said.
“This year’s breeding season saw 32 pairs formed, resulting in 25 full-term pregnancies. Between late February and early May, 62 cubs were born, with an initial survival rate of 77% (23 males and 25 females). Nine of these will remain in captivity as breeding replacements (five males and four females), joined by Vidar, a blind female from the wild Doñana population. Subject to confirmation of clinical and behavioural suitability, the remaining 39 individuals will be released into the wild in early 2026, strengthening wild populations,” the institute added.
The figures show a marked increase compared with the past two years.
In 2023, 26 pairs produced 46 cubs, 39 of which survived weaning (23 males and 16 females). After securing the necessary breeding replacements, 31 were released in 2024. Additionally, five orphaned cubs rescued in the field were incorporated into the programme.
In 2024, 30 pairs were formed, resulting in 17 pregnancies and 43 cubs. Of these, 31 survived and 21 were released in 2025. Three orphaned cubs from the wild were also recovered.
“Between 2023 and 2025, captive-born individuals reinforced wild populations in Murcia, Castile and León, Andalusia, Castile-La Mancha and Extremadura, expanding the species’ historical range,” the ICNF noted.
The Iberian Lynx Ex Situ Conservation Programme began 20 years ago, in 2005, when Brezo, Brecina and Brisa, the offspring of breeding pair Saliega and Garfio, were born on 28 March at the El Acebuche Breeding Centre in Doñana.
“Since then, 835 cubs have been born in captivity, 640 of which have survived. Of these, 424 have been released across the Iberian Peninsula.”
Thanks to the release of these four hundred lynxes across Southern Portugal and Spain, the species has improved its status on the IUCN Red List, moving from ‘Critically Endangered’ to ‘Vulnerable’. Brisa, one of the earliest historic cubs, is still alive and can now be visited at the Terra Natura Murcia Zoo Park.
“The programme will continue breeding at a pace consistent with previous years, taking into account future needs for reintroduction projects and for maintaining breeding stock. In this context, the breeding centres expect to form 30 breeding pairs in 2026, following the most appropriate genetic recommendations to meet the future demands of the reintroduction programmes,” the ICNF concluded.
Source: ICNF
