Background Habitat loss - particularly of those habitats crucial for feeding and reproduction - is now one of the greatest threats to most at-risk species. One of the consequences of the loss and deterioration of the Mediterranean scrubland habitat in South-East Portugal is the lack of adequate and undisturbed areas for both Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) and black vulture (Aegypius monachus). It is therefore of the utmost importance to implement actions that aim to promote the conditions needed by these critically endangered species. Actions should encourage and facilitate short-term settlement, the establishment of new breeding populations and extensions of range. This should help increase numbers and reduce the risk of extinction. The regions of Moura/Barrancos, Vale do Guadiana and Caldeirão - all Natura 2000 sites - have enormous potential in terms of the necessary conditions for the presence of the Iberian lynx and black vulture in Portugal. However, several threats to these species are still very much in evidence in these areas. These include habitat loss, scarcity of prey, lack of suitable conditions for reproduction, human disturbance and disease. Objectives The main goal of this project is to enhance the suitable habitat for the establishment of resident and breeding populations of Iberian lynx and black vulture in South-East Portugal, in this way improving their conservation status. An early action of the project will be a habitat and prey survey, providing GIS-mapped cartography that will inform and focus efforts to conserve the target habitats and species. The project will identify priority zones of Mediterranean scrubland habitat for conservation and negotiate management agreements with landowners, managers and olive producers for key areas. Compensation payments will be agreed for leaving some areas unharvested and maintenance actions implemented in sensitive zones. This will help create targeted ecological corridors over at least 60 ha. Specific actions will introduce both feeding stations and artificial dens/nests for the two target species and favour wild rabbit populations as a key prey. Health checks will be made, particularly to ensure that food does not carry infectious diseases or high concentrations of antibiotics. These activities will hope to favour the natural re-colonisation of areas. As well as a specific poison mitigation plan, the project will elaborate an action plan for the conservation of the black vulture on the project sites and develop links between the project and the action plan for the conservation of Iberian lynx in Portugal. To further promote their long-term conservation, it will work to increase acceptance of both target species by local populations and stakeholders.