THE STATUS AND DISTRIBUTION OF THE IBERIAN LYNX FELIS-PARDINA (TEMMINCK) IN COTO DONANA AREA, SW SPAIN

The distribution and relative abundance of the Iberian lynx Felis pardina at the Donana National Park and its surroundings (SW Spain) have been determined by tracks and faeces by searching in 5 x 5 km squares. Two density categories distinguish sampling units where lynx reproduction is or is not estimated to occur. Absolute abundance was estimated in two ways by comparing with previous radiotelemetric studies. The population is made up of no more than 50 individuals, divided into two nuclei relatively isolated one from the other. High relative density mostly coincided with protected areas. Lynx presence positively correlated with shrub cover and rabbit abundance. The lynx population undergoes high unnatural mortality rates. Conservation proposals are noted.