FAUNA AND FLORA

 

THE ISLAND OF CRETE : THE AGRICULTURAL AREA OF EUROPE

 

The flora of this island, blessed by Gods, is very rich. There are more than 2000 species, of which 150 are endemic.

In spring, a lot of flowers grow. Many tulips, orchids and bay-trees make the beauty of the plains and the thyme, sage, and mint scents scent the mountainous slopes. The mountain is the paradise of the maples and the pines, while the East coast that of the plane trees and the cypresses. All is growing there. Indeed, there is a large variety of vegetables (tomatos, cabbages, carrots), fruit trees (orange trees, lemon trees, banana trees) and palm trees. But Crete is especially known for its million olive-trees and its wines. Moreover, its olive oil is one of best of all Europe and its vintages compete with those of continental Greece easily.

 

The fauna is limited to eagles, rabbits and the famous wild goats, named  Kri-kris. You will be able to observe some birds and insects on the whole of the island and many lizards which spend their time taking the sun and frightening the tourists sitting on park benches and low walls. Don't worry, there are no dangerous animals on the island

 

Crete also benefits of full of fish water (swordfish, merous, octopuses) and also of a sumptuous marine flora (anemones, sponges). The bay of Elounda (in the east of the island) is famous for its marine biotope, unique in the Mediterrannean. But pay attention to the sea urchins, they prick...