The Iberian Lynx was on the brink of extinction in 2002, with fewer than 100 individuals alive. Due to an incredible breeding and reintroduction scheme, there are now over 2000 lynx as of 2024. Saliega was the first Iberian lynx to give birth as part of the captive breeding programme, becoming a symbol of hope for her species, and this creation is in tribute to her.

I would rate this pattern as advanced; the stitches are fairly standard, but it requires felting and a wire brush to get the best results. There are also a lot of colour changes on the face.

Finished dimensions: approx. 15 cm tall (not including the ear tufts).

Feel free to sell any items you make with this pattern, but please credit me as the designer.

Supplies

1. DK yarn – about 25g of tan, plus small amounts of black, white, cream and light pink.
2. 3.5mm hook
3. Fiberfill stuffing
4. Yarn needle
5. 7.5mm Safety eyes, preferably with Cat pupil, in yellow, orange or green
6. Felting needle
7. Black and white felting wool
8. Wire yarn brush
9. PVA glue or similar