Almería is often celebrated for its beaches and whitewashed villages yet its true strength lies in its wild landscapes and the wildlife they host. Positioned between the Mediterranean Sea and semi-arid mountains the province offers ecosystems that support remarkable biodiversity. From the vast steppe-shrub-lands and gypsum habitats of the southeast to the pine-covered mountains and dramatic coastline these regions are home to species found nowhere else in Europe.

The province’s fauna is both rich and surprising. Wetlands within the coastal zone support flocks of greater flamingos and colonies of waders while inland shrublands provide habitat for species such as Dupont’s lark and the black-bellied sandgrouse. Raptors such as Bonelli’s eagle patrol the cliffs and wide-open spaces of the mountain ranges while smaller mammals such as the Granada hare and various bat species inhabit more secluded zones. Along the coast offshore marine habitats within the Alboran Sea host cetaceans turtles and deep-sea coral communities, recently the marine protected area "Banks and Gorges of the Alboran Sea” was extended to safeguard this remarkable seascape. 

Flora is equally exceptional. Over one thousand plant species have been recorded in the southeastern Iberian shrub-woodlands many of them endemic to gypsum-rich soils. The interplay of aridity geology and proximity to the sea has created habitats where even desert-adapted species thrive such as the ocellated lizard or the Algerian hedgehog. 

Recognising its ecological importance Almería is home to numerous protected areas including the Cabo de Gata‑Níjar Natural Park the Sierra de María‑Los Vélez Natural Park and segments of the newly designated offshore marine zones. These designations help support conservation of habitats species and ecosystem services while also offering opportunities for ecotourism and study. Investments into wildlife centres and habitat restoration reflect a growing commitment to preserving Almería’s wild identity. 

However the province faces challenges. Arid conditions climate change land-use change and tourism pressure place pressure on habitats and species alike. Continued effort is required to maintain balance between human activity and preserving the natural heritage.

For anyone seeking to connect with nature Almería offers more than a backdrop, it offers a living and breathing environment where landscape and wildlife intertwine. From mountains to sea flora to fauna this is a land of wild beauty and ecological significance.

References

• One Earth. "Southeastern Iberian Shrubs and Woodlands.” 2025. One Earth

• Visiting Almería. "Almería Wildlife: Discover the Region’s Rich Biodiversity.” 24 May 2025. Visiting Almería

• Euro Weekly News. "Andalucía Invests Nearly €1 M in Almería Wildlife Centre.” 18 Sept 2025. Euro Weekly News

• Euro Weekly News. "Almería Designates New Marine Protected Areas to Boost Biodiversity.” 21 Oct 2025.