The recent reintroduction of just 25 specimens of the Eurasian lynx and European sea eagle in Spain has sparked one of the largest environmental controversies in the country in recent years. This initiative is part of a broader trend known as 'rewilding,' aimed at restoring species that have disappeared from their natural habitats. However, the small number of individuals involved has led to debates among ecologists and scientists regarding the feasibility and ecological impact of such projects.

The rewilding efforts in Spain are intended to create sustainable populations of these species, particularly in the northern regions for the sea eagle and in the Pyrenees for the lynx. These projects represent not only a commitment to biodiversity but also a reflection of a growing acknowledgment of historical references to such species in Spanish ecosystems. Additional plans for the release of other historically present animals, such as the crested pelican and the great bustard, are also in development, further complicating the landscape of conservation efforts.

This controversy highlights a critical moment for Spanish conservation, as it reflects the tensions between differing ecological perspectives among conservationists. Some advocate for these projects as essential to restoring ecological balance, while others caution against potential ecological ramifications and question the adequacy of such small initial populations to establish viable breeding groups. As this debate unfolds, it will significantly influence future conservation strategies and the direction of wildlife management in Spain.