Interesting Animals You Can Find In Portugal

Portugal is well known for its great climate, interesting history and wonderful culture, but it also boasts an array of wildlife. The mountainous landscape, large stretch of coastline and southern plains are all home to various animals, making this country the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.

This immense collection of wildlife is also ideal for families – children will love watching out for species such as birds, mammals and cats.Families will also appreciate the ease of Portugal’s travel options – a Faro airport transfer will have children and adults well on their way to discovering the best of this country’s creatures. Here are a few you can look out for:

Eurasian Otter

These amphibious creatures are small,furry and definitely high on the cuteness scale. They move elegantly across the surface of water, usually floating on their backs alongsidetheir partners or with their babies resting on their stomachs. Their adorable faces never fail to win the hearts of children and adults alike!

Egyptian Mongoose

These fuzzy creatures are the largest of their species and can live for nearly two decades. Originally from Africa, these creatures have migrated over time and settled around Europe and Portugal.

Lynx

These beautiful cats are rare – catching a glimpse of one will surely be the highlight of your holiday! The cats are usually found in the Malcata Mountains in the north-east of the country. Their black spots and golden fur camouflage them well, though it’s still best to keep your distance if you’re on the lookout –they are predators after all.

Iberian Wolf

The Iberian Wolf has brown and grey fur, bright orange eyes and pointed snout. They are certainly a sight to behold, and a rare one at that. Unfortunately,it has been said that there are less than 300 left, so spotting one in the wild is highly unlikely.

White Stork

These great mythical delivery birds boast an enormous wingspan and tall, red legs, making them pretty easy to spot. The long crimson beak is another giveaway, and though they are best seen in flight, they also spend plenty of time on the ground.

Portuguese Man O’War

Best seen through the safety of glass, these jellyfish-like aquatic creatures wave theirextremely venomous tentacles from behind great gelatinous fins. If you happen to spot one in open water, it’s advised that you swim away very quickly! The creatures are indeed fascinating, but potentially deadly.

Iberian Fox

These small foxes originate from North Africa, and have bushier tails than their British cousins. Though they appear harmless, these animals can still be aggressive if you get too close.

Azorean Bat

Another endangered species, these flying darts are to be found in the Azores. Marvel at their flying abilities – incredible speed and flawless changes of direction.

How to Get There

Though these animals are spread across Portugal, the Algarve is a great place to start. It is well served by international airports across the UK, and from there, a Faro airport transfer can kick-start any exploration of the wild outdoors.

Portugal continuesto surprise holidaymakers with its diversity, beauty and culture. If your family are nature enthusiasts, look no further for your next holiday destination.

Author Plate

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers all over Europe and northern Africa. If you’re looking for the most convenient and affordable Faro airport transfer, Lukas and his colleagues can make sure that you and your luggage get to and from the airport swiftly and safely.