The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is a wild cat species found exclusively in the Iberian Peninsula. Its presence is largely confined to specific Mediterranean woodlands and scrublands, where it navigates a mosaic of dense cover and open areas. This specialized predator’s diet is crucial to its survival.
Primary Prey
The European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is the primary food source for the Iberian lynx. Rabbits constitute a significant portion of its diet, ranging from 75% to over 90% in some areas like Doñana National Park. This dietary specialization means the lynx is highly dependent on abundant rabbit populations for its survival and reproductive success. An adult male lynx typically requires one rabbit per day, while a female raising kittens needs to catch around three rabbits daily.
This reliance shapes the lynx’s hunting behavior and habitat selection, favoring areas with dense scrub for shelter and open pasture where rabbits graze. The lynx’s physical adaptations, including a foreshortened skull that maximizes bite force, also reflect its specialization in hunting small prey like rabbits. The consistent availability and high energy content of rabbits enable the lynx to meet its considerable caloric needs.
Secondary and Opportunistic Food Sources
While European rabbits are the staple, the Iberian lynx consumes other prey, particularly when rabbit populations are low or as supplementary food. These secondary food sources are opportunistic and do not form a substantial part of their overall diet. Small birds, such as red-legged partridges, and various rodents like voles and mice can be hunted.
Occasionally, the lynx may also prey on young deer, such as fallow deer or roe deer, or even small carnivores. Ducks and wild sheep have also been noted as occasional food items. However, these alternative prey items are not sufficient to sustain lynx populations long-term without a healthy rabbit base.
Dietary Impact on Lynx Survival
The Iberian lynx’s specialized diet makes it particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in European rabbit populations. Diseases such as myxomatosis and rabbit hemorrhagic disease have historically decimated rabbit numbers, leading to significant declines in lynx populations. For instance, viral outbreaks in the 1900s caused rabbit numbers to dwindle by up to 90%.
A scarcity of rabbits directly impacts lynx breeding success, reducing litter sizes and cub survival rates. Conservation efforts for the Iberian lynx frequently involve restoring habitat and increasing rabbit numbers to support the lynx population.