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The Algarve is a haven for an eclectic mix of wildlife species, many of which are sadly waning in numbers.

The Algarve makes an ideal stopping point for migratory birds during the winter months. Storks are a common sight and often build their nests on church bell towers, chimneys, and other high buildings in town. The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa is considered the most important wildlife sanctuary in the Algarve. This natural reserve stretches along 40 miles and its rich ecosystem is ideal for the development of varied flora and fauna. The Ria Formosa lagoon was created by the last great earthquake in 1755 and has been a nature reserve since the mid-eighties, where sea water birds can find protected breeding places. Its lagoons, marshes, channels and islets are abundant in shellfish such as cockles, clams and oysters, and shelter a variety of birds such as flamingos, the cattle egret, white stork, oyster catchers, ibis, and cranes, to name but a few. Another nature reserve is that of Castro Marim, covering over 5 acres of land. The biggest attraction here is the large number of birds, especially aquatic birds. There are 153 species to spot including storks, avocets, sand pipers, mallards, and flamingos. This reserve is also home to many species of mollusc, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals. A visitors’ centre at Cerro da Rocha provides literature and guided visits.

The Portuguese water dog has long been associated with the Algarve and is now a regular character in the Ria Formosa National Park. The breed was long ago used by fishermen to work on the boats and was treated as much a part of the crew as the men, earning the right to their fair share of the catch. Renowned for its ability to swim, dive, and retrieve, they were used to herd fish, retrieve nets, and relay messages between the boats. This dog is highly intelligent and possesses incredible swimming and diving techniques, magninfied by its characteristic webbed feet. It also has the ability to detect sharks by staring into the water. As the number of working boats began to dwindle due to modern fishing techniques, so did the need for the water dog. Whilst this creature can still be found in the Algarve as a pet or working dog, it is still recognised as a rare breed. The kennel in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, near Olhão, specialises in this breed and gives visitors the opportunity to see and stroke the dogs, talk to their handlers, and learn more about the breed.The Iberian Lynx, the most endangered of the world’s 36 cat breeds, teeters on the edge of extinction. This cat is just over twice the size of a domestic cat but with longer legs. They have distinctive bob tails and tufts on the ear tips. An average adult can weigh up to 15kgs. Their ideal habitat is a mixture of mature Mediterranean scrub and forest, and open meadows in which to hunt. To avert the tragedy of extinction, the conservation organisation ‘SOS Lynx’ has been formed.

The Dolphin is a natural visitor to the shores of the Algarve. Dolphin watching boat trips provide visitors the chance to see the dolphin in its natural environment. Several companies run these trips from the marinas of Lagos and Portimão and Alvor Harbour.

Take the opportunity to appreciate the natural wildlife of the Algarve whilst you are here on holiday. After all, there is more to know of the Algarve than simply lying on one of its beautiful beaches.