Coto de Doñana National Park – a unique biodiversity in Europe | Spain

Updated: March 30, 2020 | By | 1 More

It was back in 1969 when the Doñana National Park was first established. For the centuries leading up to its establishment, the region was most commonly used as a hunting grounds by Spanish royalty. In Spain, the Doñana National Park is considered one of the largest protected areas. It is also one the largest nature reserves in all of Europe.

Wetlands in Doñana National Park, Spain
Wetlands in Doñana National Park, Spain by Arend Vermazeren

The park is separated into three major ecosystems which includes the forest reserves, the salt marshes as well as the beaches and dunes. There are more than 875 different species of flora and more than 360 species of bird which called the Doñana National Park home. Then there are more than 37 mammal, 20 fish, 11 amphibian as well as 21 reptile species that are represented within the park.

There are also a number of endangered an almost extinct flora and fauna that live within the park. This includes six different types of plants, 11 birds, one mammal, fish as well as one reptile that are endangered. The two species which are seriously in danger of extinction include the Iberian lynx as well as the Spanish Imperial Eagle.

Sand Dunes in Doñana National Park, Spain
Sand Dunes in Doñana National Park, Spain by Arend Vermazeren

The abundance of animal species which call the Doñana National Park home has made the park a very popular destination for travelers and scientists alike. Anyone who makes their way to the nature Park is bound to see a large representation of those animals. The most commonly encountered include the red deer, wild boar, fox as well as the European rabbit.

The marsh areas the park are also found with a great diversity of animal life; especially amphibians. Those who make their way to the marsh regions of the Doñana National Park are bound to see amphibians like the sharp-ribbed newt, western spadefoot toad as well as the European tree frog and the spur-thighed tortoise.

Doñana National Park, Spain
Doñana National Park, Spain by Arend Vermazeren

The region in which the Doñana National Park is located, is very unique; geographically speaking. The region itself is situated at the border point of two continents. It is also where the Atlantic Ocean meets with the Mediterranean Sea. As result, the region has become a veritable stopping point for any migrating species.

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Category: National Parks, Spain

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  1. Turkey Tours says:

    Great information!Nice pics.

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