The Red Deer

The Red deer has a fragmented distribution throughout much of Europe, Asia and North America
  • Spanish: Ciervo
  • Scientific: Cervus elaphus hispanicus
  • English: Red Deer
  • French: Cerf élaphe
  • German: Rothirsch
  • Italian: Cervo nobile
  • Portugese: Veado

Description

The red deer is A large mammal with a robust body, fine head and long legs. The males measure around 90 – 120cm (3ft-3’11”) at the shoulder and the females 90 – 110cm (3ft-3’7”). Only the males have antlers and these are replaced each year. Their general body colour is brown with greyish tones, the belly and beneath their short tail is much paler.

The Red deer has a fragmented distribution throughout much of Europe, Asia and North America. The 27 or so subspecies have each developed different characteristics. In Iberia there is a subspecies, Cervus elaphus hispanicus, which has a smaller head, more grey colouring and finer dimensions than in Central European variations.

The size of the red deer varies within Spain depending on genetics and food availability. The males can be 90 y 120 cm at the shoulder with an overall length of 160 y 220 cm, the females are smaller.

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Autumn’s Call: Experience the Thrill of the Deer Rutting Season in Andalusia

The Red deer has a fragmented distribution throughout much of Europe, Asia and North America

Every year, Andalusia’s natural landscapes host a breathtaking spectacle: the deer rutting season, or “berrea.” This natural phenomenon marks the beginning of the mating season for these majestic animals and transforms many of the region’s protected areas into top-tier ecotourism attractions. Visitors have the unique opportunity to witness the life cycle of wild fauna up close, all while raising awareness about the importance of conserving these pristine environments. So read on to see how you can experience the thrill of the deer rutting season in Andalusia

Autumn’s Call: Experience the Thrill of the Deer Rutting Season in Andalusia
Autumn’s Call: Experience the Thrill of the Deer Rutting Season in Andalusia.

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Mar de las Calmas: Spain’s First Marine National Park

Mar de las Calmas: Spain’s First Marine National Park
  • Region: Islas Canarias
  • Island: El Hierro (La Restinga)
  • Declared a marine reserve: 1996
  • Marine reserve surface area: 750 hectares
  • Declared a Marine national park: Yet to be declared
  • Park surface area: To be confirmed but it is estimated to be a massive 24,000 hectares

The Mar de las Calmas, located off the coast of La Restinga in Spain’s Canary Islands, is set to become Spain’s first fully marine national park. This historic move will protect an underwater ecosystem rich in biodiversity, centered around the famous underwater mountain El Bajón. The proposed designation, approved by the Spanish Cabinet, will now undergo a parliamentary process to finalize its status.

El Bajón: A Legendary Dive Site

El Bajón, a sharp underwater mountain just off La Restinga, rises nearly to the surface, missing the open air by mere feet. This area is famous among underwater photographers for its dramatic landscape and rich marine life, including large groupers and manta rays. Since 1996, El Bajón has been part of the Mar de las Calmas marine reserve, which has helped preserve the diverse species found in these waters. The new national park status aims to extend this protection across a larger area.

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Killer whale – Orcinus orca – Orca

Orcas in Spanish waters

The killer whale, scientifically known as Orcinus orca or simply orca in Spanish, is a highly intelligent and social marine mammal. It is the largest member of the dolphin family and can be found in oceans all over the world, including off the coast of Spain. The “Iberian orcas” belong to the type found usually … Read more