WWF organization at least one person each week iberian lynx He dies at the hands of poachers after being shot at, poisoned, or the victim of illegal traps, “an incessant trickle that threatens to blow up efforts to save the species.”
According to an analysis carried out within the framework of the LIFE SWiPE project, the conservation NGO estimates: In 2021, 68 lynxes died at the hands of poachers, making up 5% of the total population. stated in his statement.
For two decades, joint efforts have been made to save this unique species around the world. There are 1,668 copies between Spain and Portugal.
Parallel to this promising increase, the WWF condemns the re-emergence of poaching, one of the main factors driving lynxes to the brink of extinction. second largest cause of unnatural death of species (5%)very close to accidents (6%).
223 species killed by poachers in two decades
WWF’s analysis reveals that: From 2000 to 2021, 233 lynx died illegally, the last one with available data.
Some of these deaths are due to non-selective, cruel and illegal hunting methods such as poison baits or traps; Other times the death is intentional.
Also from the WWF, the vast majority of these crimes will go unpunished or never met.
According to this new analysis, Only 30% of lynx deaths due to poaching were detected.
“This alarming data on poaching is a dire reminder that crimes against wildlife are invisible,” said Silvia Díaz Lora, coordinator of the LIFE SWiPE project at WWF Spain.
Regarding the motivation of deaths, the problem is more frequent when conflicts arise after species return and is often linked to death reports, according to WWF’s analysis. attacks on chicken coops or small livestock farms.
“The lynx is a widely recognized and loved species in its new regions, including in the livestock or hunting community. Investing in preventive measures such as anticipating conflicts and strengthening chicken coops is crucial,” said Ramón Pérez de Ayala, head of lynx conservation at WWF Spain. It is already being done in many areas where the LIFE LynxConnect project works.
Thanks to the collaboration of many actors, from management leading remediation projects to conservation NGOs or the hunting sector. The Iberian lynx has already traveled almost halfway to reach a safe population.
“We cannot allow poaching to destroy the rescue of the Iberian lynx, which is a global conservation achievement and a source of pride for the entire community and its regions,” said Pérez de Ayala.
“To put an end to this scourge, governments need to prioritize the prosecution of crimes against wildlife, as well as citizen cooperation and condemn all forms of poaching.” he finished.
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Contact address of the environment department: crizclimatica@prensaiberica.es
Source: Informacion
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