Spanish Spadefoot Toad – Pelobates cultripes – Sapo de Espuelas, a member of the Pelobatidae family, is a toad species known by several common names, including the Western spadefoot, Iberian spadefoot toad, Spanish spadefoot toad, and Wagler’s spadefoot toad. This species is primarily found across the Iberian Peninsula, with isolated populations in southern and western France.
Physical Characteristics
The Spanish spadefoot toad is a medium-sized toad, typically measuring around 7 to 8 cm in length. It has a distinctive spade-like protrusion on its hind feet, which it uses to burrow into the soil. Its skin is usually greenish-grey or brown, with darker spots or blotches. The toad has a broad head and eyes with vertical pupils.
Habitat and Behavior
This species is found in a variety of habitats, including sandy soils, dunes, and grasslands. It is active mainly at night and is an excellent burrower. The toad spends most of its life underground and emerges to breed during the rainy season, typically between February and April.
Diet
The Spanish spadefoot toad is carnivorous and feeds on a range of invertebrates, including beetles, spiders, and snails.
Reproduction
Breeding typically occurs in temporary pools or ponds created by rainwater. Males call to attract females, and once they mate, the female lays strings of eggs that attach to vegetation in the water. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, which develop into toadlets within a few months.
Conservation Status
The Spanish spadefoot toad is currently listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, some populations have experienced declines due to habitat destruction and fragmentation.
Status in Spain
In Spain, the Spanish spadefoot toad is protected by law, and its capture or trade is prohibited. The species is found throughout most of the country, with the exception of the Balearic Islands and parts of the north.
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Iberia Nature Forum
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I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Contrary to popular beliefs, myths legends and downright non truths, there are only two species of rats in Spain. The black rat (Rattus rattus) and the brown rat (Rattus norvegicus). In Spain, there is no such thing as a house rat, water rat, sewer rat, tree rat, olive rat, golf-course rat or mountain rat. Its a brown rat or a black rat! 🙂
Rats are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant and animal matter. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat just about anything they can find, including human rubbish, fruits, vegetables, and even other small animals.
In addition to being thought of as a nuisance, rats can sometimes carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans, making them a public health concern. It is important to take steps to prevent infestations, such as keeping food stored in tightly sealed containers and maintaining a clean living environment. Other wise both species of rats in Spain make up an important part of the ecosystem and habitat.
The black rat (Rattus rattus)
Black rats are found primarily in the coastal regions of Spain, particularly in areas with warmer climates. black rats are also commonly referred to as “ship rats” because they are believed to have been spread around the world on ships during the “Age of Exploration”.
Black rats are also known to have played a role in the spread of the bubonic plague, which was a devastating pandemic that occurred during the 14th century. The disease was caused by a bacterium called Yersinia pestis, which was carried by fleas that infested rats. Black rats were one of the primary carriers of these fleas, and their populations exploded in urban areas during the pandemic, contributing to the rapid spread of the disease.
However, it’s worth noting that while black rats were certainly involved in the spread of the plague, they were not the only species involved, and the exact role they played is still a matter of great debate among historians and scientists.
Habitat: Black rats are originally from tropical Asia but have been introduced to many parts of the world, including Spain. In Spain, they are found primarily in coastal regions, particularly in areas with warm climates. They are agile climbers and are often found in and around buildings, in gardens, and in agricultural areas.
Appearance: Black rats are smaller than brown rats and have sleek, black fur with a lighter underside. They have large ears and a long, pointed tail that is longer than their body.
Diet: Black rats are omnivores and will eat a variety of plant and animal matter. Their diet may include fruits, vegetables, seeds, insects, and small animals like mice and birds.
Behavior: Black rats are nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night. They are social animals and live in groups called colonies. They are good climbers and can often be found climbing walls and trees. They can also swim and are sometimes found near water sources.
Reproduction: Female black rats can have up to six litters per year, with each litter consisting of 6-8 young. The young are born blind and hairless and are completely dependent on their mother for several weeks.
Conservation status: Black rats are considered a non-native invasive species in many parts of the world, including Spain. They can cause damage to crops and buildings, and can also carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and other animals. As a result, they are often considered a pest and efforts are made to control their populations. However, they are not currently considered a threatened species.
The brown rat (Rattus norvegicus)
Brown rats can be found throughout the iberian peninsular including coastal regions but there is no evidence of any interbreeding or hybridization betweent the two species where their distribution overlaps.
Habitat: Brown rats are found throughout much of Spain. They are adaptable and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including urban, suburban, and rural areas. They are often found in and around buildings, in sewers and drains, and near garbage dumps and other sources of food.
Appearance: Brown rats are larger than black rats and have brown or grayish-brown fur with a lighter underside. They have a blunt, rounded snout and a shorter, thicker tail than black rats.
Diet: Brown rats are omnivores and will eat just about anything, including grains, fruits, vegetables, meat, and even other rats. They are known to hoard food, storing it in their nests or burrows for later.
Behavior: Brown rats are primarily nocturnal but may also be active during the day. They are social animals and live in groups called colonies. They are good climbers and can often be found climbing walls and trees. They are also good swimmers and can swim for long distances.
Reproduction: Female brown rats can have up to seven litters per year, with each litter consisting of 7-14 young. The young are born blind and hairless and are completely dependent on their mother for several weeks.
Conservation status: Brown rats are not considered a threatened species and are actually one of the most successful mammalian species on the planet, with populations found throughout much of the world. However, they are considered a pest in many areas and efforts are made to control their populations in urban and suburban areas. They can also carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and other animals, making them a public health concern.
Here’s a comparison between black rats and brown rats to help with identification
Black rats have sleek black fur, a lighter underside, and a long, pointed tail that is longer than their body.
Brown rats have brown or grayish-brown fur, a lighter underside, and a shorter, thicker tail than black rats.
Size
Black rats are smaller than brown rats, with an average length of 16-24 cm (6-9 inches) and a weight of 75-230 grams (2.5-8 ounces).
Brown rats are larger than black rats, with an average length of 20-27 cm (8-11 inches) and a weight of 140-500 grams (5-18 ounces).
Habitat
Black rats are found primarily in coastal regions of Spain, particularly in areas with warmer climates.
Brown rats are found throughout much of Spain and can thrive in a variety of habitats, including urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Behavior
Black rats are agile climbers and are often found in and around buildings, in gardens, and in agricultural areas.
Brown rats are also good climbers and can be found in similar habitats as black rats, but are more likely to be found in sewers, drains and near rubbish dumps.
Diet
Both black and brown rats are omnivores and will eat just about anything they can find, including fruits, vegetables, and even other small animals like mice and birds.
Reproduction
Both black and brown rats can have multiple litters per year, with each litter consisting of several young that are born blind and hairless.
It’s worth noting that black and brown rats can sometimes be difficult to tell apart, especially in areas where their ranges overlap. However, some of the above key differences in appearance and habitat can help with identification.
Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.
Iberia Nature Forum
Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum!
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I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
The Mediterranean species of orchids (Orchids in Spain) are all terrestrial (unlike the flamboyant tropical species that grow in tree hollows termed epiphytic.)
They are under constant scrutiny by biologists and it seems are constantly being renamed and re categorized.
Orchids have the smallest seeds of the flowering plant world, like dust and produced in great numbers, they differ from normal seeds in that they contain no food store or endosperm. Therefore the seed is more vulnerable to the conditions into which it falls and can suffer a high mortality rate. This happens because the seed must create a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizae, soil born fungi, in order to germinate. It is only with the assistance of this fungus that the seed can then build up nutrients to develop a root and create green leaves. It can take over 10 years for this relationship to develop from germination to allow enough strength for the orchid to produce a flower.
This symbiotic relationship could explain why there can be an orchid flowering one year which is not seen again for several more years. During its green leafy phase the orchid may feed itself and supply starches to the fungi. After flowering, when the root is depleted and the leaves shrivelled it is reliant on the fungi to replenish any nutrients needed to produce leaves for another season.
Orchids in Spain are pollinated by insects and many of the Ophrys species flowers have developed to attract a specific insect even replicating the shape and pheromones of a female to lure a male. Meanwhile the Orchis species look invitingly like nectar rich types of flowers but do not offer any food rewards to their pollinators.
Here are some of the more easily identifiable orchid species in Spain. Common English name (scientific name) Spanish common name. (if you spot an error let me know!) 🙂
Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophora) Hombrecillos ahorcados – Orquídea hombre
Man Orchid (Orchis anthropophora) Hombrecillos ahorcados – Orquídea hombre
Height: 10-40cm Colour: Green, Red, Yellow Flowering: April to June Soil type: Limestone Portuguese: Erva-do-homem-enforcado Catalan: Flor de l’home penjat
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
There are two species of hedgehog in Spain and their distribution is slightly different. The European hedgehog can be found throughout most of mainland Spain and the Balearic Islands. The North African hedgehog, on the other hand, is mostly found in the southern and eastern regions of Spain, particularly in Andalusia and the Valencian Community.
Top image – Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog thanks to Cortijo Buho. “Located in the beautiful countryside of Benamaurel (Granada province, Spain) is an 11th century cave house which is home to a very special group of birds and animals. It’s not a zoo, far from it. It’s relaxing, interactive, educational and enjoyable. Cortijo Búho is not open to the general public but you are very welcome to visit as long as you make an appointment first.” Find out more here: https://cortijobuho.com
How to tell the difference between two species of hedgehog in Spain?
Really, the easiest way to tell the difference between the two species (apart from geographic location) is the white face of Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog and the darker face of Erinaceus europaeus – The European hedgehog.
Have they ever been “on the menu”?
Whilst hedgehogs are not a traditional food source in Spain, there are some historical records of humans consuming hedgehogs in the country. During times of famine or food scarcity, people have sometimes resorted to eating hedgehogs as a source of protein. In some rural areas of Spain, hedgehogs have also been used in folk medicine for various ailments, such as rheumatism.
Erinaceus europaeus – The European hedgehog – Erizo Común
Note the darker face of Erinaceus europaeus – The European hedgehog
This is the more common of the two species of hedgehogs found in Spain. It is a medium-sized mammal that can grow up to 30 cm in length and weigh up to 1.5 kg. Its back is covered in spines, which it uses for protection against predators. It is omnivorous and feeds on a variety of insects, worms, snails, and small vertebrates, as well as fruits and berries. It is a nocturnal animal and is active mostly at night. It is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and urban areas.
Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog – Erizo moruno
Note the white face of Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog. Photo by Cortijo Buho: https://cortijobuho.com
The other species of hedgehog found in Spain, Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog. It is a smaller than the European hedgehog, growing up to 20 cm in length and weighing up to 500 grams. Its spines are shorter and denser than those of the European hedgehog. It is also an omnivore, feeding on insects, small vertebrates, and plant matter. It is also nocturnal and is found in similar habitats to the European hedgehog.
General information
Both species are adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, agricultural areas, and even urban areas such as parks and gardens. However, they are more commonly found in areas with dense vegetation or cover, where they can forage for food and find shelter.
Habitat and behavior
Hedgehogs in Spain are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, agricultural areas, and urban areas such as parks and gardens. They prefer areas with dense vegetation or cover, where they can forage for food and find shelter. Hedgehogs are primarily nocturnal, spending their days sleeping in burrows or under vegetation. They are solitary animals and generally only come together during mating season.
Defense against predators
Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog in a defensive pose rolled up into a tight ball
Atelerix algirus – The North African hedgehog in a defensive pose rolled up into a tight ball. Thanks to Valerie Robson-Vinardell for the image taken in Mijas costa feb 2023.
Apparently this one didn’t look in too good condition and was plagued with fleas.
Diet
Hedgehogs are omnivorous and feed on a variety of insects, worms, snails, small vertebrates, and plant matter. They are important predators of invertebrates and play an important role in controlling insect populations. Hedgehogs have a specialized diet that includes a high protein intake to support their energetic lifestyle.
Reproduction
Reeproduction occurs during the spring and summer months. Mating is a short-lived event, and females give birth to litters of 2-7 young after a gestation period of around 35 days. Young hedgehogs are born blind and helpless, and are nursed by their mother for several weeks. They reach sexual maturity at around one year of age.
Conservation status
Hedgehogs are protected by law in Spain, and it is illegal to capture or harm them. However, both species are facing threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, road mortality, and the use of pesticides. These threats are contributing to a decline in hedgehog populations in Spain and throughout Europe. Hedgehogs are considered a “species of special interest” in Spain, which means that they receive some level of protection from the government.
Hedgehogs in Spain face several threats and also have a few predators.
One of the main threats to hedgehogs in Spain is habitat loss and fragmentation due to human activities such as urbanization, agricultural expansion, and deforestation. This can reduce the availability of suitable habitats, food resources, and shelter for hedgehogs.
Another threat is road mortality, as hedgehogs are often killed by vehicles while crossing roads. This can be especially problematic in areas where roads fragment their habitats or when roads are located near important foraging areas.
The use of pesticides and other chemicals in agriculture and gardening can also have negative impacts on hedgehogs, as they can ingest or absorb these chemicals through their food or skin, leading to illness or death.
In terms of predators, hedgehogs have some natural enemies in Spain such as foxes, badgers and some species of birds of prey such as the eagle owl. Domestic dogs and cats sometimes also prey on hedgehogs, especially in urban areas.
Overall, these threats and predators have contributed to a decline in hedgehog populations in Spain and throughout Europe, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these important species.
Ronda Today
Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/
Wildside Holidays – Spain
Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.
Iberia Nature Forum
Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum!
Discover the Iberia Nature Forum – Environment, geography, nature, landscape, climate, culture, history, rural tourism and travel.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies in Spain.
