The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a medium-sized feline endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, primarily inhabiting the Mediterranean forests and scrublands of Spain and Portugal. This spotted wild cat has long been recognized as one of the world’s most threatened feline species, with its population having once dwindled to fewer than 100 individuals in the early 2000s. The lynx’s existence is intrinsically linked to the health of its specific ecosystem, a relationship that dictates its feeding habits. Its survival depends on the conditions of its highly restricted habitat.
The Rabbit’s Essential Role in the Lynx Diet
The diet of the Iberian lynx is characterized by specialization, revolving almost entirely around the European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Across its range, the rabbit accounts for 80% to 93% of the lynx’s food intake, making the feline an obligate specialist. This high dependency means that the lynx’s population fluctuations are directly tied to the abundance of its primary prey.
To meet its daily energetic needs, an adult lynx typically requires one rabbit per day. This requirement nearly triples for a female lynx raising a litter of kittens, who must catch approximately three rabbits daily to sustain herself and her young. The consistent availability of the rabbit allows the lynx to thrive and reproduce.
However, this specialization has made the lynx vulnerable to the decline in rabbit numbers caused by viral outbreaks. The introduction of diseases such as myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD) in the 20th century decimated wild rabbit populations, leading to declines of up to 90% in some regions. When rabbit numbers plummet due to these recurring viral strains, the lynx’s survival is immediately jeopardized. The intimate connection between predator and prey is pronounced; conservation efforts for the lynx must prioritize the recovery and stabilization of the endangered European rabbit population.
Hunting Strategies of the Iberian Lynx
The Iberian lynx has evolved a hunting style adapted to capturing its specialized, fast-moving prey in the dense Mediterranean scrubland. Rather than relying on long-distance pursuit, the lynx is a stalker and ambush predator. Its strategy involves moving stealthily through the vegetation before launching a sudden, short burst of speed to secure its meal.
Hunting is often concentrated in areas where rabbits are most abundant, such as near warrens or at the edges of open pastures adjacent to dense thickets. The lynx utilizes the available cover to remain concealed, waiting patiently for a rabbit to venture close enough for a quick pounce. Physical features support this method, including powerful hind legs for explosive leaps and highly developed hearing, which helps locate prey moving underground or through the brush.
Dietary Adaptations and Conservation
While the European rabbit forms the majority of its diet, the Iberian lynx exhibits limited dietary flexibility when its preferred prey is scarce. During periods of significant rabbit shortage, the lynx may opportunistically consume secondary prey items. These alternative food sources can include small rodents, partridges (Alectoris rufa), waterfowl, or, on rare occasions, the fawns of small deer species like fallow deer (Dama dama).
These secondary prey items provide a temporary caloric supplement but are generally insufficient to sustain the lynx population or support successful reproduction. The lynx’s low adaptability means it cannot easily switch to larger, more challenging prey or diversify its diet enough to weather prolonged rabbit shortages. This hyperspecialized feeding habit makes the Iberian lynx highly vulnerable to habitat degradation and the continuous threat of diseases affecting its primary food source.