Seeing lynxes in summer? Yes, it's possible. You just need to read this.

lyncisecoturismo
Jul 26
3 min read

Una hembra paseando con su cachorro en verano, cerca de un arroyo

Iberian lynx watching in summer: where and when to enjoy this natural treasure

The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) is one of the most iconic and endangered cats on the planet, and observing it in the wild has become a unique experience for nature lovers. Although sightings may seem easier during the colder months, summer also offers opportunities to see them, provided you know the keys to increasing your chances of success.

Jaén: a sanctuary for the lynx

The province of Jaén is one of the main refuges for the species. Here, Mediterranean woodland combines open spaces, streams and rills, and olive groves, where the lynx finds high densities of wild rabbits, its main food source, thus constituting an ideal habitat for the lynx.

During the summer, high temperatures (which can exceed 40°C on some days) cause lynxes to reduce their activity during the central hours of the day, taking refuge in shaded areas, rivers, streams, small pools of water and riparian vegetation, and spending countless hours resting, hidden.

In summer, females are accompanied by their cubs, who are around 4 months old by this time, and they interact constantly through play. Sometimes, these movements help us locate them more easily.

Adapting to schedules: key in summer

The best times to observe them are at dawn and dusk , when temperatures drop and the lynx is most active.
At dawn , the ideal is to leave very early; by 6:30-7 am we should already be close to the observation point or positioned in the place where we are going to try to locate them.
If observation is to take place at dusk, it's ideal for them to begin their activity around 8 p.m. and remain active for much of the night.
This does not mean that there are no specimens that move at midday or at other times, but it is not usual for this date.
Adapting activities to these times also offers ideal conditions for photography, with soft, orange light.
It is advisable to use binoculars or a spotting scope and search from authorized viewpoints or trails, without straying from established routes.

Observing patiently and silently is essential to increase the chances of encounter.

Other fauna you can see in summer

In addition to the lynx, the Sierra de Andújar and the Guarrizas Valley are home to impressive biodiversity:

Spanish imperial eagle : another emblematic species, observable in open and elevated areas.
Red deer and fallow deer : they can be seen in clearings and pastures, especially at dawn and dusk.
Large birds of prey such as the black vulture and the griffon vulture, soaring over the mountain skies.

🌿 Final tips for a responsible experience

Wear discreet clothing and appropriate footwear.
Do not get too close to animals or try to attract them.
Hire local guides to increase your viewing opportunities and contribute to the area's sustainable economy.

Summer, despite the challenging heat, offers magical moments for observing the Iberian lynx and other species that inhabit this privileged corner of Andalusia.

If you too would like to enjoy the experience of hunting the Iberian lynx in the summer , you can contact us at: