Iberlince project camera traps detect Iberian lynx social and family behaviours

Over the past 16 years, the Iberian lynx populations have been systematically monitored (starting with Doñana and Sierra Morena, but also the reintroduced populations in recent years) within the framework of three successive LIFE Nature projects (the last being the LIfe Iberlince). Thus, data was collected regarding demographics, distribution, use of territory, dispersion, connectivity, and even health. Two main methods were used: camera traps (each lynx has a unique spot pattern), and telemetry (with VHF and/or GPS collars).

Through camera traps and photo-identification, population estimates were obtained (with very low errors; under 5 per cent), which is why it has been the most useful tool for general lynx monitoring. On the other hand, telemetry is very important in determining causes of mortality, as well as movements and dispersions.

In addition to its use for scientific and conservation purposes (demography, distribution, roaming areas, etc.), camera trapping sometimes allows for the observation of social and family behaviours and relationships. In this case, we detected such lynx interactions in a reintroduction area in Extremadura. The specimens in question are the territorial male 'Kun' (born in 2013) and his daughter 'Nube' (born in 2016). We also detected the same male with his sons 'Ortega' and 'Ozono' (born in 2017). These interactions between lynxes (sometimes related) are not so unusual, which slightly undermines their reputation for being solitary animals. In spite of their solitary behaviours, they do interact with other lynxes and display a complex range of behaviours, thus revealing that they are solitary, yet maintain a social life.