The Life Iberlince project publishes a guide for responsible Iberian lynx watching

Do not use baits, and do not make sudden movements in the presence of specimens, are some of the basic norms included in the document

The Life+Iberlince project 'Recovery of the Iberian lynx’s historical distribution in Spain and Portugal' (2011-2018) published a basic guide for the responsible Iberian lynx watching. Aimed at companies, nature tourism guides and the general public, its main goal is to minimize the negative impacts of recreational observation of the Iberian lynx, and enhance existing knowledge regarding the species’ conservation measures and habitat.

This guide describes, in an entertaining and educational way, the Iberian lynx’s characteristics while offering a series of tips to enjoy watching the specie. Among others, these include never using baits or attractants to ensure observation, since it can negatively affect the lynx’s behaviour and health; and avoiding sudden movements or chases in observation areas, which can interrupt communication between different specimens at important moments such as the mating season.

It also warns that recreational observation is subject to regulations, which must be respected, as does private property and customary uses of the rural environment. In this regard, we must recall that Iberian lynx watching shouldn’t be harmful for the lynx nor the local population.

This guide for good lynx observation practices invites you to familiarize yourself with the species before the observation takes place – and for which it recommends consulting the Life+Iberlince project website in advance, at www.iberlince.eu). This way, you’ll ensure a more enriching experience, instead of a frustrating one should you not fulfil the purpose you set out to achieve. Before observation, a responsible observer must take into account a series of limitations – and common sense, of course – and act accordingly.

Related material:
- Responsible observer’s Life+Iberlince guide
- Responsible observer’s Life+Iberlince decalogue postcards
- Responsible observer’s Life+Iberlince decalogue