Category: Culture and Entertainment > Zoo
District: Lisboa > Mafra > Vale da Guarda
The Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre is located in the municipality of Mafra, in a rural area, in Vale da Guarda/Picão. It is situated in a wide, isolated valley covered by dense vegetation, providing a tranquil and more natural environment for the animals that live there.
Its location in a wooded area contributes to the well-being of the wolves and offers visitors an immersion in a green and serene space, far from the urban bustle.
This centre was established in 1987 with an essential purpose: to shelter Iberian wolves that, for various reasons, cannot live freely in the wild. Many were victims of traps, illegal captivity, or come from other places where they did not have suitable conditions. Here they find a safe space adapted to their needs.
It is a reference point in Portugal for sheltering these animals, ensuring them specialized care and an environment that minimises human contact and disturbance, respecting their wild nature.
A visit to the centre offers a unique opportunity to observe the wolves in an environment that seeks to replicate their natural habitat. Observation is conducted from elevated and strategic points, such as towers, which provide views over the enclosures where the animals live.
This approach allows visitors to get to know the Iberian wolves (Canis lupus signatus) up close, learning about their behaviour and ecology, while ensuring that the animals maintain maximum privacy and tranquillity.
The Iberian wolf is the last great predator in Portugal and faces serious challenges for its survival, being an endangered species. The centre plays a vital role in raising awareness for this cause, acting as an ambassador for wolf conservation in the wild.
During the visit, the public can deepen their knowledge about this fascinating animal, demystify preconceived ideas and understand the crucial importance of its protection for the balance of ecosystems in Portugal.
The history of the Iberian Wolf Recovery Centre dates back to 1987, being an initiative of Grupo Lobo, an association dedicated to the conservation of this species. Its creation arose from the urgent need to provide shelter for wolves that could not remain in private captivity or required special care.
Since its foundation, the centre has welcomed dozens of wolves, from various origins, always focusing on their well-being and promoting environmental education and scientific research for the conservation of the species.
License: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.pt
Coordinates DD: 38.9607853,-9.2718816
Coordinates DMS: 38°57'38.8"N 09°16'18.8"W
Weather Vale da Guarda
On-duty Pharmacy Vale da Guarda
