Within the framework of the European LIFE LYNXCONNECT project, two training sessions for the SEPNA (Environmental Protection Service) of the GNR (National Republican Guard) were held on December 3rd and 4th in Beja and Évora. These sessions aimed to strengthen the officers’ capabilities in comprehensive knowledge of the Iberian lynx, as well as in risk identification, prevention of wildlife roadkill, and roadside incident protocols. A total of 46 people participated in the sessions, with 26 attendees in Beja and 20 in Évora. The session held in Beja also included the participation of Vigilantes da Natureza (Nature Rangers), enriching the training from an inter-institutional perspective and facilitating operational coordination in the field.

During the sessions, topics covered included the current situation of the Iberian lynx in Portugal, its spatial ecology and territory use, the main threats of human origin, the species recovery measures implemented within the framework of LIFE projects, and the procedures for responding to roadkill and other incidents. The key role of SEPNA (the Spanish Wildlife and Nature Protection Service) in identifying risk areas, properly managing evidence in the field, and raising public awareness was also highlighted.

The collaboration between SEPNA and the technical teams responsible for the conservation of the Iberian lynx has always been very smooth when lynx are found dead or injured from unnatural causes, such as being hit by vehicles or shot, or subjected to other illegal hunting methods. However, this is the first time that SEPNA personnel have received training of this kind. These training sessions have also proven highly valuable for the project team itself, as they provide firsthand knowledge of SEPNA’s operational needs, enabling them to carry out their work more effectively.