A male Iberian lynx like the one shown in the photo is in intensive care after being found by a group of cyclists between the towns of Moguer and Almonte (Huelva) with one of his legs missing. It seems that it lost its front right leg in a hunter's snare three or days ago and is in a very weakened condition.

The wounded animal, which is thought to be around 12-18 months old, is being treated at the El Acebuche Recovery Centre in Doñana National Park. Weighing in at just 4.5kg (less than half normal body weight), it is believed that having access to fresh drinking water from a lagoon near to where it was found may have saved the lynx's life. It is on a drip and is taking a course of antibiotics.

An investigation is underway to establish the exact whereabouts of the snare, and the identities of those responsible for setting it.

The Iberian lynx is defined by the World Nature Foundation (UICN) as the most endangered feline on the planet.

The regional Environment ministry of the Andalucían government has introduced a series of initiatives to preserve the species and recently announced the launch of the EU-funded Life project.