Human pressure has led to the decline of many species in Spain, but notable conservation efforts have helped some iconic animals recover significantly.
While they are not completely safe, their future looks promising. Future generations will hopefully continue to enjoy these species, which provide essential ecological services.
Here are some remarkable success stories:
Brown Bear: In the early 90s, fewer than 100 bears remained in the Cantabrian Mountains and the Pyrenees. Today, their numbers have risen to around 400, with a growing distribution area of 70% since the 1980s.
Iberian Lynx: Once on the brink of extinction with only about 60 adults, the population has soared to over 2,000 individuals, thanks to habitat protection and conservation funding.
Spanish Imperial Eagle: From just 39 breeding pairs in the 1970s, the population has increased to 841 pairs today, with substantial efforts focused on habitat preservation.
Otter: Once nearing extinction due to pollution and habitat destruction, otter populations are recovering, now found in over 55% of Spain's river basins.
Bearded Vulture: After dwindling to 30 individuals in the 1990s, their numbers have rebounded to over 1,200, though threats like power lines and wind turbines remain.
These successes demonstrate the effectiveness of public-private partnerships in wildlife conservation.