The Lynx effect

It would seem that the Lynx is making a comeback in the Italian Alps after a gap of nearly 100 years. In Spain however, the Iberian Lynx (Lynx Pardinus) is close to extinction with around 150 left in the wild. Naturetrek’s 6-day holiday focuses on the lesser-known corners of Spain’s Andalucia, the last refuges of the critically endangered Iberian Lynx.

The most endangered of the world’s 36 cat species, Iberian Lynx stands on the brink of extinction with just two viable (but isolated) populations within Andalucia. The Iberian peninsula, situated in the rugged, dry and rocky hills and mountains of the relatively unpopulated Sierra Morena, is home to the majority (perhaps 70% or more) of Iberian Lynx - the remaining 20-30% live in and around the flat grasslands and pine forests of Coto Doñana.

Guests spend the first 3-nights in El Rocío, an elegant village overlooking the lagoon, river and marshlands that lie within the Coto Doñana National Park. Heading out before dawn each morning, and again in the afternoon, maximises the chances for spotting Iberian Lynx.

Amongst woodland, open grassland and heathland, Red and Fallow Deer may also be encountered, plus some of the region’s avian specialities, amongst them Purple Gallinule, Marbled Teal, Crested Coot, the rare Spanish Imperial Eagle (seven pairs breed here) and Red-necked Nightjar.

The next 2-nights in Sierra Morena, are spent moving between scenic viewpoints, scanning vast tracts of Lynx habitat. Unlike in the Coto Doñana, sightings of Lynx and other animals here are often at long range, but the scenery more than compensates. The birdlife here is very rich, with Azure-winged Magpies and Hawfinches particularly abundant.

The tour costs £875 p/p including scheduled flights, full board hotel accommodation and expert guiding.

Tours depart London 23rd and 28th September 2008.

For more information, visit Naturetrek.co.uk.