Spain Nature & Wildlife
Due to its diverse landscapes, Spain has equally diverse plant and animal life. One of the most famous species found in the country is the indigenous Iberian Lynx. Critically endangered, if the Lynx were to become extinct, it would be the first feline species to do so since prehistoric times. As a result of its endangered status, conservation efforts are constantly at work both in Spain and Portugal, receiving funding from the European Union.
Spain is considered a great country for bird watching and many of the country’s national parks provide excellent opportunities to see some incredible species. More than twenty bird of prey species calls the country home, many of which are indigenous to Spain. Other types of birds migrate to the Iberian Peninsula annually. The country has many “Important Bird Areas” with over 400 protected areas. Spain’s Black Vulture is the largest bird of prey that is indigenous to Europe. Other species that are popular amongst bird enthusiasts are the Golden Eagle, the Egyptian Vulture and the Griffin Vulture.
With long coastlines, the bodies of water around Spain provide habitats for many fish and shellfish. Fish life is particularly abundant in the Alboran Sea (where the Atlantic and Mediterranean waters meet). Off the Ebro Delta in northeastern Spain, bottle-nosed dolphins can be spotted. In southeastern Spain, striped dolphins as well as long-finned whales call the waters their home.
Spain hosts fourteen national parks that serve to protect the national landscape and wildlife. UNESCO has listed four of these parks as World Heritage Sites. Garajonay National Park was established in 1981, and along with the rest of the Canary Islands, became a WHS in 1986. Named for the highest point on the island, it hosts a humid subtropical forest dense in virgin vegetation. Low-hanging clouds that provide perpetual mist characterize the park.
Spain Travel Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy-to-navigate travel information section dedicated to Spain.
Learn about the history and culture of Spain, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Spain's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with Country Quickfacts compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Spain for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Spain tours today!
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