Ages ago Europe used to be full of free roaming animals from bears, wolves, deer, and plenty other wildlife. Over time the expansion of European civilization replaced vibrant ecosystems with cities and greatly diminished the wildlife. However, there is still some wildlife remaining in Catalonia. In fact, if you know where to look you’ll find a plethora of wildlife. Just walking around Barcelona, you’ll often be greeted by the squawking of parrots, which live around the palm trees. Yet if you want even more, keep on reading!
Related article: The Natural side of Barcelona, Collserola Mountains
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Perhaps the best place to find free roaming wildlife is going to the mountains, especially the Pyrenees. However, even if you go around Collserola by Tibidabo you’ll find some animals like wild boars and rabbits. It’s important to note that the wild boars can be aggressive, they become especially protective if they have piglets.
Photo via Visualhunt
If you go to the Pyrenees, you can find all manner of wildlife from Brown bears, Pyrenean chamois, Red Deer, Egyptian Vultures and plenty more animals. Here you’ll also find some nice parks to explore the natural wildlife. One such place is Molló Park, which is just on the border to France and near to Olot. It costs 14€ for adults and is open from 10:30 to 18:00. The best way to get here is by car as the public transport is limited in the Pyrenees.
Since, the 1970s there has been a continuing effort to protect and increase the bear population. However, this has been a difficult effort as local farmers are concerned for their livestock. As of 2005 it’s believed there are roughly 20 brown bears roaming around the Pyrenees.
Related article: Best animal-related activities in Barcelona
Perhaps even closer to Barcelona is the beach and sea where you’ll find plenty of animals. In fact you should be careful of the jellyfish and sea urchins as they give a nasty sting, although neither of them are deadly. Also, if you go further out in the Mediterranean Sea you’ll find dolphins, sharks, and a wide variety of fish.
Photo via Visualhunt
In fact a popular activity along the coast of Catalonia is snorkeling and scuba diving. If you wish to try out diving it’s recommended that you take a class first and buy the proper equipment. It should be comforting to know that there are few dangerous animals like sharks lurking around Catalonia’s coast!
If you know of other places or animals you’ve discovered in Catalonia please share them in the comments below.
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