flora and fauna
Photo by Valentin Guisande
Nature in Soria
Soria’s vast expanse of forests, deep valleys and unspoilt natural protected areas, makes it the perfect habitat for a variety of wild animals and plant life. Here is a description of some of the many species that can be seen in Soria.
Forests and Wildlife
The pine forests that dominate the landscape in the north east, are the natural habitat of the ‘Ciervo’ (Red Deer), the largest of the deer species. The ‘Corzo’ (Roe deer), ‘Jabali’ (Wild Boar) and ‘Zorro’ (Fox). With little traffic on the roads and minor disturbance by man, you will have a better chance of seeing wildlife whilst on walks and on some country roads. We also find forests with Poplar, Elm, Chestnut, and Evergreen Oak tree species throughout the province.
Photo by Valentin Guisande
Birds of Prey (Vultures and Eagles)
The Canyon Rîo Lobos Nature Park is a protected area and the natural habitat of various birds of prey including, the ‘Aguila Real’ (Golden Eagle) one of the largest birds of prey in the province. The Golden Eagle is often seen soaring over open cereal fields and canyons in search of prey. The number of ‘Buitre Leonados’ (Griffon Vulture) has risen by 52% in the last few years. Recent studies show, there are now 350 pairs of Vultures in the province. In Montejo alone, there are 100 pairs of Griffin Vultures, considered the biggest number in Spain and Europe. On a Spanish Footsteps tour you are almost guaranteed to see these large birds circling the skies.
Sabinas (Incense Juniper) Forest
Near the Medieval village of Calatañazor stands the forest of ‘Sabinas’ (Incense Junipers) This Juniper forest has been silently maturing for centuries and it is perhaps the best conserved forest of Sabinas in the world, a species which is now considered endangered.
Wild Flowers and Herbs
Along the network of walking tracks that cross the province you will find wild flowers and herbs which have been collected by the villagers for centuries. Thyme, Lavender, Rosemary, Heather and Sage fill the air with their distinctive scent and the Chamomile collected has long been used for medicinal purposes.
Río Duero
As the streams make their way from the higher grounds towards the River Duero you will find an abundance of wildlife harbouring these areas. The ‘Nutria’ (Otter) is starting to make a comeback here and can been spotted more frequently in the Canyon Rîo Lobos and Pela de Duero areas. The rivers are teaming with fish such as ‘Trucha’ (Trout) and freshwater ‘Cangrejo’ (Crayfish).
As Christmas approaches the ‘Acebo’ (Holly) comes alive in the area known as ‘Garagueta’, this is Europe’s biggest natural Holly Grove. Its prickly leaves have adapted to keep the predators away from its tempting bright red berries.
Soria has opted to promote a new type of tourism, conserving its natural environment. No matter which time of year you visit, the landscape will appear different as the colours of Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter blend into each other.
Valentin Guisande has contributed several photographs to our site. His work is featured in several books about Sorias natural environment and its wildlife. To see more of his work: www.valentinguisande.com
