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Flora and Fauna of the Isla BonitaFauna: among 43 nesting species are: the common chiffchaff (Phylloscopus collybita), the blackcapped canario (Atricapilla Canariensis), the common buzzard and raven (Buteo buteo and Corvus corax), and the more seldom ´Graja´ (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax barbarus) an endemic subspecies of the chough which only lives on La Palma. Two different endemic pigeons Bolle´s and the Laurel pigeon, which can be seen in the laurel woods of Los Tilos (Columba bollii and Columba junoniae) can be seen in the woods of La Palma. Not as well known to be resident on La Palma are: the puffin ( Puffinus puffinus), the very rapid diving Barbary Falcon (Falco pelegrinoides) also in danger of extintion and the stone curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus). Finally the longeared owl (Asio Osus) has been spotted close to Casa Serradero and Casa Pajero. Wall Gecko´s and Western Canarian Lizards (Tarentola and Gallotia galloti) can be seen easily at all casas. Among many beetles the European Rhinoceros (Oryctes nasicornis). And a very rare grasshopper: the Acrostira euphorbiae . In the high mountains with some luck the wild sheep, called Mouflon (Ovis musimon) can be seen. Flora: La Palma is called La Isla Bonita (the beautiful island). It is very green and has many different trees, like the Pine tree (Pinus Canariensis), the lemon and avocado trees, chestnut and almonds. To the blossoming almonds even has been dedicated a party in Puntagorda (see festivities). Everywhere on the island many cactuses (Opuntia) can be seen. Used for their juicy fruits, which dried are very nice as well. The Cochenille lice (Opuntia coccinellifera), is used for colors since the Guanches (carmin extract, known in Europe as E120). In the lower areas, up to 600 m. height bananas are grown in plantings. In high mountains we see Codeso (Adenocarpus viscosus, of the legume family). Under the pinetrees grow Cistus roses (Cistus symphytifolius en C. monspeliensis) and at their feet the parasiting Yellow Hypcist (Cytinus hypocistus). Huge endemic Echium aculeatum and other endemic plants like the Heliotropium europaeum and Kleinia neriifolia (verode) and Limonium imbricatum (sea-lavander). Ofcourse many sub-tropical succulent plants can be admired at La Palma, like the Bejeque (Aeonium arboreum). |
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