Within the framework of the LIFE Lynxconnect project’s Training of Trainers Plan, a training course for SEPRONA officers was held on February 5th and 6th at the Civil Guard Traffic School in Mérida. The objective was to strengthen the officers’ capabilities in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Iberian lynx, as well as in identifying threats and, in particular, in the procedures for responding to cases of unnatural mortality or illegal hunting.
The training was attended by 52 officers from various territorial units, fostering the exchange of experiences and strengthening operational coordination in the fight against the main threats affecting the species.

The training program was structured into several thematic modules taught by technical staff and specialists in the field. The first day was dedicated to the biology and recovery of the Iberian lynx, and was led by Germán Garrote Alonso, Technician for the LIFE Lynxconnect Andalucía project. During the second day, María Jesús Palacios González, Coordinator of the LIFE Lynxconnect Extremadura project, and Jesús Cárdenas, Head of the SEPRONA Investigation Team in Badajoz, presented the analysis of a practical judicial investigation case (judgment 00047/2023, Don Benito). They were followed by Salvador Pacheco Pavón, Technician for the Andalusian Strategy Against Poison, who addressed the fight against poisoning from the perspective of both prosecuting the crime and prevention. The sessions concluded with a discussion and Q&A session aimed at reinforcing the practical application of the content in the daily work of the officers.

The coordination between the Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) and the technical teams
involved in the conservation of the Iberian lynx has been constant and effective, especially
in responding to incidents involving lynx injured or killed by human activity, such as roadkill, shootings, or other illegal hunting methods.

However, these workshops represent the first training experience specifically
designed for this group. Furthermore, for the project team, these types of activities
have added value, as they allow for the direct identification of the real needs of SEPRONA in its daily work and a better adjustment of the content, tools, and
collaboration mechanisms.