The Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) has been catalogued as the most endangered felid species in the world (IUCN, 2002). Lynxes are solitary and territorial animals that show seasonal reproduction, and mate between mid January-February. Pregnancy oscillates between 62-65 days and the typical litter size is 2-3 cubs. However, little is known about lynx behaviour during parturition and lactation. Our study aimed at analyzing the behaviour patterns of females in the pre- and post-partum period, the frequency of specific maternal behaviours such as allogrooming and nursing and the effect of husbandry and age-related factors in stereotypies such as pacing and the possible pacing motivations. Seven captive females, among them three pregnant (Sali, Espe and Aura), were observed by scan sampling every 10 minutes during 10 weeks in 3 different day periods (morning, afternoon and night), and following 4 different orders. Eleven Day/Night EV1223CD4 Colour Domo infra-red (IR) cameras and 21 IR fixed cameras distributed in the range area, delivery rooms, and delivery dens allowed the live observation. Two different ethograms were developed and for data registration, an Excel macro table was created. For statistical analysis, Chi-squared tests were used using SPSS.14.0. Results showed females who gave birth spent 25% of their time displaying maternal behaviours, whereas they decreased the time for sleeping (16%), exploring (4.21%) and pacing (6.4%). Among mothers, Sali (3 previous litters) spent more time grooming her cubs than the others (10.51%), Espe (hand-reared, 1 previous litter) spent more time nursing (22.5%); and Aura (primiparous) spent more time resting (44%), exploring (16.37%) and pacing (1.41%). Wild animals incorporated at the breeding centre at an age of 7 months or captive-born animals paced and explored more (p<0.0001). A positive correlation was detected between pacing and feeding (p<0.05). Husbandry had an effect on the time spent pacing and exploring (p<0.007).