Iberian lynx  (Lynx pardinus)

Biology

Iberian lynx are generally nocturnal creatures, with peak activity occurring at twilight when individuals leave shelter in order to forage (5). Both sexes are solitary and territorial, with male territories overlapping those of several females (5). Females reach sexual maturity at one year of age but will only breed once they are in possession of their own territory (6). The mating season peaks at the beginning of the year in January and February and births occur two months later (5). The female cares for her litter of one to four kittens (5) within a lair that may be located under a thicket or in a hollow tree. Weaning occurs at around eight months but juveniles tend to stay in their natal territory until they are around 20 months old (6). European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) make up the mainstay of the diet of the Iberian lynx, unlike the larger Eurasian lynx that feeds mainly on ungulates such as roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) and chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra) (4). Small deer may be eaten on occasion, if rabbit numbers are low (6).