The Iberian Lynx returns to Extremadura

14/06/2014

All beneficiaries of LIFE + Iberlynx project congratulates Extremadura. Yesterday in the area of Hornachos-Valle del Matachel proceeded to the first release of of Iberian Lynx in Andalusia, allowing the return of this species in critical danger of extinction to Extremadura community after more than three decades of absence.

This historical fact, which took place yesterday in Extremadura, is the first step to recovery of populations of Iberian Lynx from areas where they disappeared for decades. This initiative is the result of the positive experience of several LIFE projects in progress since 2002, start date of programs for the conservation of the Iberian Lynx, having triplicate the population of Andalusia, from 94 to 332 species in 2013.
Such success would not have been possible without the support of landowners, who like yesterday in Extremadura, are present each day. The agreements with the landowners are very important for the survival of the Iberian Lynx and other species associated with Mediterranean forest.
The General Director of "Agriculture, Rural Development, Environment and Energy", José Antonio Echávarri, was in charge of opening Kodiac`s cage, standing behind the work of Extremadura beneficiaries, the team of “Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development, Environment and Energy” of Junta de Extremadura, which develops its second LIFE project, the company Agroforex, CBD-Habitat Foundation and Adenex.
Our thanks to all have participated, helped and shared the good and bad moments of these years. All the success is based on the combined efforts of government and non-governmental organizations involved in them.