Tenerife's Flora And Fauna   by Malcolm Burton

Macaronesia is the name given to the groups of Islands which scatter across the centre of the Atlantic. One such group is the Canary Islands which boasts the greatest variety of flora. Throughout the Canaries there is a mixture of endemic and cultivated plants, tropical and sub-tropical.

The largest of the Canary Islands is Tenerife, which although by most standards a small island it does carry a rich diversity of plant life. One of the reasons for this diversity is the climate. Tenerife's climate is remarkably varied for such a small island, apparently caused by the winds being affected by the rugged contours of the land. There are reported to be some 140 plant species thriving on the Island thanks to the climate and variety of volcanic soils.

For anyone interested in wildlife or flora there is are many treats awaiting them on Tenerife. Although the south of the island is quite dry and barren the rest of Tenerife has a wide variety of plant life to marvel at.

The unusual Red Tajinaste, which flowers in late spring and the Las Canadas are among the most spectacular examples. The flowering Teide wall flower or Codesco spread a fantastic yellow carpet during the spring, creating a sight to remember and enjoy.

Tenerife is also well known for the Drago tree, which is one of the oldest living members of the plant kingdom. 20 million years ago it was prevalent throughout the Mediterranean but the coming of the Ice Age meant that they remained only in Madeira, the Canary Islands and the Cape Verde Islands. Today they are only naturally grown in Tenerife and the neighbouring island of La Palma.

Tenerife's ancient settlers, the Guanches, revered the tree and performed sacred ceremonies with it. What was particularly interesting to them was that the colourless sap turned crimson upon contact with air and light. It became known as dragon's blood. The trees were looked after and have achieved a great age but it is difficult to be accurate because the bark does not create normal annual circles. Nevertheless, the most famous Drago tree, the Millenium Drago at Icod de los Vinos on the northern coast, is at least 650 years old and possibly over 1000 years. It is 17 metres high with a girth of 6 metres. They can be seen in most towns and villages in the north of the island. As well as the Millenium Drago, it is worth seeking out the Drago de la Ramble, magnificent against the blue ocean, and the Drago in the Sitio Litre gardens in Puerto de la Cruz.

Endemic species of wild birds also have appeal. With its dark blue feathers and elegant appearance, the Blue Chaffinch is one of the most beautiful and distinct, and is found in the pine forests. They may have originated from the nearby African continent and then evolved during their isolation on Tenerife.

Take time to enjoy the fantastic flora and fauna of Tenerife. Too often people only see the beaches and nightlife, yet the natural world has so much to offer when walking in Tenerife.

About the Author - Tenerife Activity Holidays

In Christopher Columbus's time, the Canary Islands were believed to mark the end of the world. After being conquered by the Spanish in the 15th Century, the Canaries become a popular stopping point for explorers, traders and missionaries on their way to the Americas.

The islands have also appeared earlier in Greek and Roman times and were written about in texts and affectionately named the "happy islands" and "fortunate islands". It is no surprise that the fantasy city of Atlantis has also been theorized to lie amongst the sub-tropical islands making up the archipelago. Suffering some tumultuous times in the past few centuries, the Canaries now enjoy the protection of Spain while remaining an autonomous community with a thriving tourist industry.

Nowadays the Canaries are best known for being a popular tourist destination especially for Europeans. In fact, tourism makes up 32% of the economy which is hardly a revelation considering the islands' mild sunny climate that it enjoys all year round, with temperatures rarely falling below 18C in winter or above 24C in summer. The climate is regulated by the warm Gulf Stream and Trade Winds making any time of year good for a visit.

The seven islands that make up the archipelago offer visitors a range of activities, scenery and lifestyles that can live up to any vacationer's desire. The lively islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria at the centre of the island chain host some wild resorts teeming with beach activities and night life. Many people choose to stay here for the social scene but the islands also offer plenty of options for taking a break from the partying to enjoy some of the island's natural beauty.

If nature rather than nightlife is what appeals to you, there are plenty of other islands to explore. La Palma is considered the most beautiful and untouched of the islands and has its own microclimate. Visitors to the island seek its lush, green rainforest-like atmosphere but often don't realize that this foliage is a result of the higher levels of rainfall it receives! Designated a national reserve in 1974 and subsequently recognised as a globally protected site by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) Lansarote's Timanfay Park should not be missed by those seeking fantastic volcanic island landscapes including black sand beaches and fields of petrified lava.

The island Fuerteventura boasts the longest beaches of the Canaries and is most popular for family holidays or couples seeking a tranquil holiday away from it all. Cheap flights to Fuerteventura and the other islands are easy to find in advance or on the fly.

Whether you are looking for all night raves and foam parties or a quiet holiday in gorgeous surroundings, the Canary Islands can deliver. Choices amongst the seven islands abound and the close proximity to the UK and plentiful flights available make the islands an ideal destination for a short getaway or a longer visit.