The
wildlife of the Pyrenees is exceptionally rich, despite the
devastating impact of human activity on many of its most engaging
species.
Populations of deer and wild boar hide
in the forests, and in certain dense woodlands a dwindling
number of brown bear still manage to survive despite the depredations
of hunters. The species is now protected.
In contrast, the ubiquitous isard ñ or Pyrenean chamois ñ is on the increase, as are shy wildcats; marmots are plentiful (and audible); while majestic birds of prey circle in the skies, the Griffin Vultures are particularly impressive.
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The capercaillie, a game bird now extinct
in the French Alps, still thrives in the Pyrenees, and the
tiny desman, a sort of aquatic mole, is unknown anywhere else
in western Europe, except the Picos de Europa.
Suggested reading:
The Rough Guide to The Pyrenees
Published by Rough Guides
www.roughguides.com
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