Lynx and hunting, a compatible coexistence in Castilla-La Mancha

Once finalized the hunting season in Castilla-La Mancha, is valued positively the compatibility of hunting activity in the presence of the Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) in castellanomanchegas lands.

In this first hunting season after the release of several Iberian lynx specimens in Castilla-La Mancha, the feline presence in performing numerous hunting trips did not lead to any limitations than, those imposed by law on hunting and environmental matters.

With these backgrounds, this hunting season was atypical compared to recent years, even decades, especially in the Montes de Toledo region. It was many years without hunting trips in castellanomanchega region with a stable presence of Iberian lynx. It is important to consider that, although in recent years it has been detect the presence of multiple specimens of Lynx in southern of Ciudad Real, in most cases, the continuity of these registers was highly variable in time and space.

Until the date and under the Life + Iberlince Project, were released 22 specimens of Iberian Lynx, in Castilla-La Mancha, 12 in Ciudad Real and 10 in Toledo, led to the realization of hunting trips in the community, in territories with a stable presence of lynx. In the province of Ciudad Real, we can highlight the journeys made in the municipal district of Almuradiel, Sierra Morena, during the month of February. During the course of them, they were not caused disturbances to the lynx, or decreases in the development of hunting activity. Similarly, the remaining land and properties present in the reintroduction area that rely on the presence of lynx, mounts were made that have not generated any problems to either the lynx or hunters.

We want to thank the hunters to enjoy their hobby responsibly. Likewise, we must mention the great work done by technicians of LIFE + Iberlince project and by environment agents of Castilla-La Mancha, that have allways kept informed managers, hunting societies, owners and hunters of the presence of Lynx movements throughout the community.

The fact that it is found that the presence of a species in danger of extinction such as the Iberian lynx, did not affect the hunting resource in a community with so much tradition as is the castellanomanchega, led to the realization that hunting and the conservation of endangered species are fully compatible.

All sectors involved in the use and conservation of the territory and biodiversity are in agreement to be reached a common goal: to maintain in the best possible condition our natural environment.

This objective benefits all parts, from hunting to conservationists, promoting the sustainable development of local communities.