Montes de Malaga

Montes de Malaga
Montes de Malaga
zone_01
Area 01 is the Montes de Malaga

Located to the north of Malaga city, just 5 kilometres away, is the Parque Natural Montes de Málaga (official website and maps) with a high point of 1,031 metres. The park is rich in vegetation and fauna and also known for its country restaurants serving local produce from neighbouring farms and villages.
Abundant mountain streams flow throughout the parkland, which ranges in altitude between 91 and 1,031 metres above sea level. The landscape of hills and small valleys is populated by pine trees giving a lush and lovely aspect.

Flora
A large area is occupied by Aleppo Pine re-afforestation. In the north the pines co-exist alongside Holm Oaks, Cork Oaks and Gall Oaks, Mediterranean species previously abundant here. Also found are Lentisk, Carob, Kermes Oak, Madronno, wild Olive and Almond trees, as well as other conifers including the Umbrella Pine and Monterrey Pine.

Lower shrubs include Oleander, Myrtle, Prickly Juniper, Dwarf Fan Palm, Rockrose, Rosemary, Thyme and Lavender.

Province: Malaga
Status: Natural Park – 1989
Size: 5,000 hectares

Fauna
Reptiles inhabiting the area include Chameleons, Spine-footed Lizards, Ocellated Lizards, Salamanders and Geckos.

Mammals include Polecats, Weasels, Wild Cats, Badgers, Foxes, Martens, wild Boar, Hedgehogs, Sqirrels and Rabbits.

Among the many birds of prey are the Hieraetus Pennatus, Sparrow Hawk, Snake and Mouse eagles, Goshawk, Buzzards and Golden Eagles. Other birdlife includes Redwing, Green woodpecker, Jay, Woodpigeon, Cuckoo, Thrush, Red legged partridge, Ring Ouzels in winter and nightingales in summer.