Sierra Nevada Flora and Fauna

• Sierra Nevada’s flora is distinguished by its adaptation to the varied climatic and geological conditions present in the area. From the lowest valleys to the highest summits, you can find a wide variety of plant species, each adapted to its specific habitat.
• In the lower areasoak and cork oak forests predominate, which are mixed with Mediterranean pine trees and thickets. As it rises at altitude, pine forests become more prominent, with species such as Laricio pine and wild pine, which cling to rocky and steep slopes.
• In higher altitudesabove 2,000 meters, the vegetation becomes more scarce due to the hard climatic conditions. However, it is still possible to find species adapted to this environment, such as the piorno tracrero and the juniper of Miera, which cling to the cracks of the rocks and the rocky soils. In the highest summits, above 3,000 meters, the vegetation is practically non -existent, giving way to bare rock landscapes and perpetual snows.
• Sierra Nevada’s fauna is equally diverse, with a wide range of adapted species to the different habitats offered by the region. From mammals to birds and reptiles, wildlife here is abundant and varied.
• Among the most emblematic mammals of Sierra Nevada are the Montés goat, the deer, the wild boar and the fox. These species are distributed throughout the territory, from the valleys to the highest summits, seeking food and refuge in the forests and meadows of the region.
• As for birds, Sierra Nevada is a Paradise for bird observerswith more than 200 species registered in the area. From raptors such as the Royal Eagle and the grown vulture, to small singing birds such as Pinzón and the Pirlo, the birds are present in all corners of the mountain.
• The reptiles also have their place In Sierra Nevada, with species such as the collection lizard and the staircase, which can be found in the warmer and dry habitats of the region.

The variety of flora in Sierra Nevada is not only limited to the types of vegetation at different altitudes, but also manifests itself in the Abundance of endemic species and in the presence of medicinal and aromatic plants that have been used for centuries by local communities.

• Among the most outstanding endemic species is the Plant known as “Nevadensis”which refers to its exclusive distribution in the high peaks of Sierra Nevada. These endemic species, many of which are considered relics of the glacial era, add a special value to the biodiversity of the region and are subject to interest for conservation.
• In addition, Sierra Nevada houses a A large number of medicinal and aromatic plants which have been traditionally used by local populations for therapeutic and culinary purposes. Thyme, rosemary, lavender and sage are just some of the species that can be found in the region and have been valued for their healing and aromatic properties.
• The diversity of the flora in Sierra Nevada is also evident in the Variety of habitats that housesfrom Ribera forests along the rivers to the alpine grasslands on the highest summits. Each of these habitats offers unique conditions for the growth of different plant species, which contributes to the wealth and heterogeneity of the landscape.

Sierra Nevada’s fauna is equally fascinating and diverse, with a wide range of adapted species to the various habitats found throughout the mountain range. From the majestic mammals to the little and elusive insects, the wildlife of this region is a testimony of the biological wealth of the ecosystem.

• One of the most emblematic mammals of Sierra Nevada is The Montesa goatan endemic species of the Iberian Peninsula found in the steep mountain slopes. With its imposing horns and its agility in rocky land, the Montesa goat is a symbol of the strength and adaptation of mountain fauna.
• Another emblematic mammal of the region is The Iberian lynxa species in critical danger of extinction that has found refuge in the dense forests of Sierra Nevada. Although its sighting is rare and its habitat is threatened, conservation efforts are helping to protect this iconic feline species.
• In Sierra Nevada there is Great diversity of birdsmany of which migrate from Africa to Europe and use the mountain range as a passage. Among the most outstanding birds are The royal eagle, the grimberall of them adapted to the hard conditions of the mountain and the search for dams in the wide open spaces.
• In streams and rivers you can find species such as Common trout and European otterwhich depend on aquatic ecosystems for their survival.

Do not miss this article with examples of endemic species from Spain.

While Sierra Nevada houses a great diversity of flora and fauna, some species face serious threats that endanger their long -term survival. These are the endangered species:

• Viola Cassiuscula: It is in critical danger of extinction due to the degradation of its natural habitat and competition with invasive species.
• Pino Salgareño (Pinus Salzmannii): This tree is threatened by the loss of habitat due to indiscriminate felling and forest fires.
• Alyssum Garneto: This herbaceous plant is in danger of extinction due to the loss of habitat and excessive collection for ornamental use.
• Iberian lynx (Lynx Pardinus): This emblematic species of feline is critical of extinction due to habitat loss, the shortage of natural dams and mortality from roads on roads.
• Iberian imperial eagle (Aquila Adalberti): This rapaz is in danger of extinction due to the loss of habitat, human persecution and environmental pollution.
• Salamandra rabilarga (Chioglossa Lusitanica): This peculiar species of Salamandra is threatened by the degradation of its habitat and the introduction of invasive species.

Now that you know Sierra Nevada’s flora and fauna, you may also be interested in discovering biodiversity in Spain and the flora and fauna of Spain.

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