An iconic Lynx encounter
Returning to Spain
In December 2022, we traveled to Spain, hoping to photograph the elusive, yet elegant, Iberian Lynx. While the trip wasn't entirely in vain (as detailed in an earlier blog), it didn't provide the photographic opportunities we had hoped for—capturing the lynx during the golden hour or in a unique situation.
Determined to try again, we planned a return trip to Spain, a dream we fulfilled last May (2024). Our school vacations helped us achieve this goal, as this year's May break was a full two weeks. What a dream—two full weeks to spend in nature, practicing our hobby. The question was, where would we go?
Initially, we considered Norway, thinking the muskox would be an interesting subject to photograph. However, due to the wet and dreary spring, we changed our plans. Spain, with its likelihood of more sunshine, seemed like a better option. Plus, it gave us another chance to photograph the lynx.
So, as soon as school let out on Friday afternoon, we headed to Spain. The drive was quite long—covering over 2000 kilometres takes time—but it was certainly worth it. We arrived in northern Spain on Saturday afternoon and spent a relaxed weekend, eagerly anticipating the week of photography ahead.
Finally an Iberian Lynx
Filled with expectation, we embarked on our photography adventure the following week. On the first morning, we saw a male lynx pass by quickly—not much of a sighting, but it was a lynx. In the afternoon, as sunset approached, another lynx appeared, this time a female. We wondered if that would be it for the day. It was getting darker, and our expectations were low, but then...
Suddenly, a few rays of sun burst through the clouds, and a smaller lynx appeared. She was a rather skittish young female, intruding on another female's territory. Abruptly, she stopped, turned, and ran straight at us. Wow, what a unique opportunity, and in such wonderful light! She disappeared almost immediately, reappearing moments later, soon followed by another young female.
This situation was truly unique and something we had only dreamed of. Both lynxes soon vanished behind some bushes, and the sun dipped out of sight. Nevertheless, we were thrilled and grateful for this rare opportunity. Our wait had certainly been worth it!
Iberian Lynx
Lynx at the waterhole
