The wildlife on Crete is diverse. Some species are endemic (found only on Crete). Millions of years ago, there were significantly more: excavations have uncovered bones of dwarf elephants, hippopotamuses, bears, big cats, a type of dog, and various deer that have not been found anywhere else. Fossil collectors on Crete find petrified shells, snails, fish, and other marine animals dating back more than 20 million years.
Some of the animals that live on Crete today are livestock used in local agriculture, such as sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys. Scientists have discovered that alongside humans, about 35 species of mammals live on Crete. One of the most well-known animals on Crete is the endangered Kri-Kri goat. Special reserves have been established to protect this species, which is considered the “national animal” of Crete.
Another species found exclusively on Crete is the Cretan wildcat. Although scientists long believed this species to be extinct, it has been increasingly sighted in recent years. It is one of the rarest mammal species in Europe – it is estimated that only a few specimens remain. Similarly endemic to the island is the Cretan spiny mouse. This species lives in rocky steppe areas but is not endangered like the two previously mentioned species.
Another nearly extinct animal is the monk seal. These animals, like almost all seals, were long hunted for their fur. Some of the shy seals now live on uninhabited islands off the southern coast of Crete.
Wild rabbits, weasels, martens, and bats also live on Crete.
Caves, rock crevices, and rocky heights provide shelter for rare bird species such as eagles, vultures, falcons, pigeons, herons, and cormorants. In the past, partridges were also found in large numbers here, but local hunters have significantly reduced their population. Additionally, one can find kites, moorhens, and flamingos. Due to its geographical location, millions of migratory birds visit the island every year. Spring is particularly interesting for ornithologists, as migratory birds can be observed especially well when they rest on Crete during their flight from Africa to Europe.
The marine fauna around Crete is also highly interesting: dolphins, sea turtles, and countless fish species form a rich marine ecosystem. Whales occasionally appear as well. Crete is home to a few remaining specimens of the endangered sea turtle Caretta Caretta, which comes ashore here to lay its eggs. However, the soft sand of the beaches is not only popular with the turtles but also with sun-seeking tourists, which poses some problems. Out of approximately 1,000 eggs, usually only one or two turtles survive.
Crete is home to some venomous vipers and scorpions, but these shy creatures are rarely seen. In addition to venomous snakes, there are also some non-venomous species.
Geckos and lizards are widespread. Some lizard species, such as the green Balkan lizard, can grow up to 80 centimeters long. The chameleon, which is now very rare in Europe, can be found here. The poisonous Rogalida spider is also native to Crete. Naturally, there are also insects such as bees, wasps, hornets, bumblebees, mosquitoes, cockroaches, and butterflies. And of course – unmistakable: the cicada.
