The Megarian banded centipede – Scolopendra cingulata – Escolopendra is one of the smallest members of the scolopendra family at approximately 10-15 cm. They are easily recognised by the alternating bands of black and yellow/gold. They can be found throughout southern Europe and typically inhabit dark, damp environments such as areas beneath logs and rocks. … Read more
Scientific: Elaphe longissima (Laurenti, 1768) or Zamenis longissimus.
English: Aesculapian Snake.
Spanish: Culebra de Esculapio.
Basque: Eskulapioren sugea.
Catalan: Serp d’Esculapi.
Family: Colubridae.
Distribution: northeastern Spain (mainly areas in or bordering Pyrenees), northern and central France, southern Switzerland, northern and central Italy, western Sardinia, and practically entire Balkans and central eastern Europe from eastern Austria and Slovakia southwards and eastwards, as far as Moldova
The Aesculapian Snake is a species of Elaphe, a genus of snakes traditionally found in Eurasia, northern Africa and North America, although some authorities have now split the genus into smaller groups. Some also consider Elaphe longissima to be a species of Zamenis instead, but the traditional species name looks set to be around for a while yet.
Discover wildlife watching in Spain and embark on an extraordinary adventure, where the wonders of wildlife await you. Delve into the heart of nature as you witness the splendor of our most cherished creatures in their natural habitats: the majestic brown bear, the regal Spanish imperial eagle, the awe-inspiring lammergeier, the elusive Iberian lynx, and the enigmatic Iberian wolf. Immerse yourself in magical experiences set amidst accessible landscapes and uncover the secrets of many successful conservation programs, dedicated to preserving these precious species.
Iberian lynx
Wildlife watching in Spain
In Spain, birdwatching becomes a thrilling pursuit, with the country’s strategic location between Africa and Europe attracting millions of migratory birds and boasting numerous globally unique species. Prepare to be captivated by the wealth of biodiversity that spans across the nation. With over 1,500 protected areas—comprising a quarter of the country—Spain offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration. Dive into the depths surrounded by fields of posidonia oceanica seagrass, sail alongside playful dolphins and majestic whales, and gaze upon the stars from breathtaking vantage points. The options are as diverse as they are enchanting.
Black Vulture – aegypius monachus
Journey through Spain’s national and natural parks and embark on an unforgettable odyssey. From the dramatic alpine landscapes to the lush Mediterranean forests, each park offers a unique experience tailored to every adventurer. Discover the beauty and magic of lakes, valleys, and mountains beyond your wildest dreams. Recognized by UNESCO for its abundance of biosphere reserves and geoparks, Spain stands as a beacon of environmental preservation and sustainable development. Within its borders you’ll find numerous Protected Natural Areas that adhere to the principles of the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism (ECST), ensuring a harmonious coexistence with nature.
The Natural Park of the Sierra de Grazalema has also been declared a Biosphere Reserve, this is due to the diverse geography with high limestone mountains and deep gorges such as Garganta Verde
Natural Spaces in Murcia (Espacio Natural) are areas of the natural environment that due to their aesthetic and cultural values need special protection in order to preserve both the natural environment and the human acticities connected with it.
Espacio Natural Cañón de Almadenes
This area covers two kilometers on the Quípar river and nine on the Segura river and is around 116 hectares close to the towns of Calasparra and Cieza. Some points of the gorge are quite narrow with vertical walls over a hundred meters high.
There is a reservoir called La Mulata, which causes a significant decrease in the flow of the river so the continuous water course is sometimes reduced to a group of ponds (especially in the summer months). The bulk of the flow is diverted to the Almadenes Hydroelectric Plant, located further downstream. However, at the exit of the power plant the water is fed back into the Segura river.
