Sierra de las Nieves National Park

Birds

Sierra de las Nieves National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a diverse array of avian species that thrive in its varied landscapes. From high cliffs to lush forests, the park provides sanctuary for both resident and migratory birds.

Bonelli’s Eagle
This powerful raptor, with its broad wings and keen eyesight, dominates the skies above the park. It preys on rabbits, birds, and reptiles, making it a top predator in the region.

Golden Eagle
A majestic bird of prey, the golden eagle is often spotted soaring over the rugged cliffs. Its impressive hunting skills and striking appearance make it one of the park’s most iconic birds.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl has piercing orange eyes and a deep hooting call. It is primarily nocturnal, preying on small mammals and birds.

Griffon Vulture
A keystone scavenger, the Griffon vulture plays an essential role in the park’s ecosystem. These massive birds glide effortlessly in search of carrion, often congregating in large numbers.

Short-toed Snake Eagle
This specialized raptor primarily feeds on reptiles, particularly snakes. With its keen vision and strong talons, it is well-adapted to hunting in the open landscapes of the park.

European Bee-eater
Known for its vibrant plumage and acrobatic flight, the European bee-eater is a summer visitor to the park. It catches insects mid-air, adding a splash of color to the skies.

Iberian Grey Shrike
A skilled hunter, this medium-sized bird impales its prey—usually insects and small vertebrates—on thorns or barbed wire to store for later. It is commonly found in open woodlands and scrubland.

Thekla’s Lark
A resident songbird of the park, Thekla’s lark is often seen foraging on the ground. Its melodic song is a familiar sound in the dry, open landscapes.

Common Kestrel
This small falcon hovers in the air while scanning for prey. It is frequently seen perched on cliffs or hunting over grasslands, making it a common sight in the park.

Rock Bunting
A beautifully marked songbird, the rock bunting thrives in the park’s rocky slopes and open areas. Its distinctive call and striking coloration make it a favorite among bird enthusiasts.

Sierra de las Nieves National Park is a haven for wildlife lovers, offering a rich variety of species that reflect the beauty and ecological significance of this protected area.

Sierra de las Nieves National Park, located in southern Spain’s Andalusian region, is a stunning natural reserve known for its rugged limestone mountains, deep ravines, and rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of fascinating wildlife, including large mammals, reptiles, and unique amphibians that thrive in its diverse habitats.

Iberian Ibex
A symbol of the park, the Iberian ibex is a wild goat with impressive curved horns. These agile climbers navigate the steep cliffs and rocky terrain with ease, making them a common sight in the park’s mountainous areas.

Common Genet
A nocturnal carnivore with a long, ringed tail and spotted fur, the common genet moves with grace through the park’s dense forests. Though elusive, it is often found hunting small mammals and birds at night.

Wild Boar
These robust and adaptable mammals roam freely in Sierra de las Nieves. Wild boars play a crucial role in the ecosystem by foraging for roots, nuts, and insects, helping to aerate the soil.

Red Deer
One of the largest mammals in the park, red deer are often seen grazing in the open meadows or moving through wooded areas. During the mating season, their loud calls echo through the valleys.

European Badger
A burrowing expert, the European badger is a nocturnal creature that prefers the park’s woodland areas. With a distinctive black-and-white face, it is known for its strong digging skills and social behavior.

Ocellated Lizard
This striking reptile, adorned with bright green scales and blue spots, is one of the largest lizards in Europe. It thrives in the park’s rocky outcrops and sunlit slopes, feeding on insects and small vertebrates.

Spanish Pond Turtle
Found in the park’s freshwater streams and ponds, this semi-aquatic turtle is recognized for its dark shell and yellow-speckled skin. It is an important part of the aquatic ecosystem.

Griffon Vulture
Although commonly associated with birds, the Griffon vulture deserves mention for its crucial role as a scavenger. These large raptors soar over the park’s cliffs, keeping the ecosystem clean by feeding on carcasses.

Montpellier Snake
A non-venomous but formidable predator, the Montpellier snake is one of the largest snakes in Spain. It preys on small mammals, birds, and reptiles, making it a key player in controlling rodent populations.

European Hedgehog
This small, spiny mammal is a nighttime wanderer, searching for insects, worms, and berries. While often hidden under leaves or logs, it is an essential species for pest control in the park.