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FLOWERS
In spring and early summer the variety and number of flowers in the Pyrenees really have to be seen to be believed.
The best time to see the pyrenean flora is in June/July (earlier in the Foothills) when pastures and mountainsides are carpeted with yellow rattle, irises, pasque flowers, orchids, asphodels, gentians and many other flowers, including several uniquely pyrenean species such as the pyrenean saxifrage and the ramonda - a survivor from a tropical era 30 million years ago. |
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With so many flowers and grassland, butterflies, most notably apollos and swallowtails, are often seen throughout the summer.
The Foothill walks and Sierra riding holidays take you through olive and almond groves and sierras populated by dwarf oaks, conifers, juniper and aromatic herbs as well as both alpine and mediterranean flower species.
BIRDS
Pyrenean bird life is particularly rich. You are likely to see many species ranging from the rare and majestic lammergeier (the Condor of the Pyrenees) to wall creepers.
Griffon and egyptian vultures, red kites and alpine choughs are a common sight and eagles (booted, short-toed, bonellis and golden) are not unusual.
ANIMALS
Animals tend to be more elusive but you are very likely to see sarrio (pyrenean chamois) and marmots.
Wild boar, deer, pine martens, red squirrels and the very rare pyrenean brown bear usually remain hidden in the beech and pine forests of the valleys and you need patience and luck to spot them.
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