Washington, Oct 24 : Scientists in Spain claim to have discovered a previously unknown population of the Iberian lynx. They say the find raises hope that one of the world’s most endangered cat species is not that close to extinction.

“We are excited and amazed by this discovery,” said Luis Suarez, head of WWF’s Species Program in Spain.

“However, we are a long way from saving the Iberian lynx from imminent extinction,” Suarez said.

According to a WWF report, the new population was discovered in the previously un-surveyed estates in Castilla - La Mancha (Central Spain).

This Iberian community is one of the most sparsely populated of Spain's autonomous communities.

However, experts say, until the exact location of the species is known, it cannot be confirmed if it is genetically distinct from the larger and more stable population of lynx found in Andujar (South).

Scientists further say while the exact numbers and location of the newly discovered population is still under wraps, the population comprises of both adults and cubs.

Prior to this discovery, there were about 100 adult Iberian lynx in two isolated breeding populations in southern Spain. The population is thought to have since risen to some 110 adults.

The Iberian Lynx faces myriad threats - a lack of prey, accidental deaths from cars and trucks on roads across Spain, and new construction work destroying habitats.

The WWF is calling for all lynx habitat to be covered by the EU's Natura 2000 Program, which offers the strongest level of protection in Europe, something that still hasn’t happened despite years of petition.

“We hope this discovery reinvigorates action in Spain to save the world’s most endangered cat species. If Europe cannot take responsibility for Europe’s ‘tiger’, then shame on us all,” Suarez added. (ANI)