Pygmy (marbled) newt – Triturus pygmaeus – Tritón pigmeo

The Pygmy (marbled) newt - Triturus pygmaeus - Tritón pigmeo was traditionally considered a subspecies of the marbled newt (Triturus marmoratus)

Description The Pygmy (marbled) newt – Triturus pygmaeus – Tritón pigmeo was traditionally considered a subspecies of the marbled newt (Triturus marmoratus), although recent studies have shown that morphological and genetic differences between the two, are significant enough to be considered distinct species. The head is flattened, with a broad and rounded snout. The eyes … Read more

Western false smooth snake – Macroprotodon brevis ibericus – Culebra de Cogulla

Western false smooth snake - Macroprotodon brevis ibericus - Culebra de Cogulla

Venomous – harmless to humans Description The Western False smooth snake is the smallest snake of all those found on the Iberian Peninsula, normally 30-35cm and not reaching more than 65cm. The head is distinct from the body and appears flattened. The most recognizable feature is a black line from the eye to the mouth … Read more

Fire Bug – Pyrrhocoris apterus – Chinche roja

Fire Bug - Pyrrhocoris apterus - Chinche roja

This brightly coloured bug can often be seen in large groups. They have piercing mouth parts which they use to suck food from fallen seeds of various plants but mainly Mallow sp. They are occasionally noted to take other insects. The colouration serves to warn predators of noxious properties, this is called “Aposematic”. These insects … Read more