Pindos is a place of steep mountains, deep gorges and dense forests. This wild and untamed region is a real haven for wild flora and fauna.
With its impressive range of endemic species, Pindos has some of the richest and most diverse habitats in Europe. Below you can find some of the most important species of flora and fauna you might encounter while hiking.
Awareness and respect for fragile ecosystems are important factors in any successful trek in the Pindos mountains. By peacefully following the designated trails, we are safer and protect nature from our passage, which stems from a deeper need for self-determination rather than from a difficulty of living so as to interfere unnecessarily.
Enjoy nature and leave a minimal footprint in your path!
Brown bear (Ursus Arctos)
The Pindos mountain range is home to a magnificent species of brown bear, which has spread over the years throughout its range. This does not necessarily mean that their population is increasing rapidly, but there is an explanation as various factors, both biological and anthropogenic, contribute to their movements.
The brown bear of Pindos is classified as endangered. Threatened by habitat loss, poaching and human conflicts, these bears face a constant struggle for survival. The importance of protecting this subspecies cannot be overestimated, as it is an integral part of the natural heritage of Greece and the world. Conservation efforts for the Pindos brown bear and its unique ecosystem should be a top priority for all those interested in biodiversity and the protection of our planet's wildlife. Should you encounter one or more bears, you will need to remain calm. As much as the bear may impose its presence, it is not aggressive towards humans and will leave peacefully. If you see it rising up on its two legs, it is not preparing to attack you, instead due to poor eyesight it is trying to see and expressing its concern, so either stand still, lowering its stature as a sign of submission, or discreetly walk away in the opposite direction. By taking steps backwards you move out of her field of vision and if she does not feel threatened, she moves away.
Wolf (Canis lupus)
Another important species that still survives in Pindos is the wolf. Although it is much harder to spot than the bear, it is an equally fascinating creature to watch out for when hiking the expanse of the mountain range. Wolves are solitary animals and prefer to stay hidden from humans, but if you happen to see one, this is the time to act wisely. The wolf is as confused as a human in a chance encounter and will most likely walk away, however a calm approach is appropriate should the animal remain in a posture of recognition. The wolf has no aggressive intentions towards humans, however if you see it taking steps towards you do not run in the opposite direction, rather grow your stature by raising your hands and shouting towards it, urging it to flee. In case you are accompanied by a dog, his behaviour is affected, therefore there is a possibility that he will try to protect his territory and become aggressive.
Wild boar (Sus scrofa)
The wild boar is a common sight in Pindos, as in many other mountainous areas of the country, and it is encountered more often than other mammals by those who choose to move in isolated locations. Wild boars are known for their strong and sturdy construction, they can reach weights of up to 80 kg and develop high speeds. They are usually particularly active in the early morning and late afternoon, which means that at those times you are likely to find them in the forest moving alone or in numerous herds. It is advisable to avoid encounters, however if you do happen to encounter them remain calm as they do not tend to attack unless they feel restrained and will usually leave peacefully.
Balkan Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica)
The wild goat is a beautiful mammal of the cattle family, which finds shelter in isolated and steep places to protect itself from its predators. They are found in the forest and sub-alpine zone in herds of 10-40 individuals, moving according to the season for grazing purposes. The sympatric ruminants are spread over several large mountains of the country with the southernmost point being the mountains of Roumeli. They graze on plateaus, karstic fields, ravines, gorges, canyons, forests and on sloping river banks, gathering the nutrients that enable them to survive by taking refuge in the steepest and most dangerous parts of the mountains. In Greece, the subspecies Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica is spreading and is protected and much loved!
Jackal
The "golden jackal" (Canis aureus) or "common jackal" belongs to the canine family and according to the existing data it has the second smallest population in Greece after the wolf. It is a medium-sized carnivore, but it is considered an opportunistic animal in its choice of food, so its diet is enriched with plants and fruits. Its colour is greyish-yellow or reddish, with black spots on the back, which mainly depends on the season and the area in which it is found. The tail is about 30 cm long and reddish except for the tip, which is characteristically black.Its origin remains unknown. It is thought to have moved to the south-eastern Balkans from Asian populations. The golden jackal has a distribution in northeastern Africa, southeastern Europe, and southern Asia, with 13 subspecies identified. Although it is commonly grouped with the 2 other surviving jackal species, Canis mesomelas and Canis adustus, genetic testing has shown it to be more closely related to other related canine species such as the wolf (Canis lupus) and coyote (Canis latrans).With a body size of about 60-100 cm, it is the smallest of the three jackal species and is slightly larger than the fox (Vulpes vulpes), which is also a related species.
Source: Callisto https://www.callisto.gr/
Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
The fox is a genus of mammal, belonging to the family Canidae. The best known species is the red fox (Vulpes vulpes), whose coat is reddish, with the back of its ears and the front of its legs blackish, while the tip of its tail is always white.
Externally it resembles the dog a little, but its tail is much more tufted and its coat is thicker, and its muzzle is more elongated. The largest species in size is the red fox, which reaches up to 90 cm in length and weighs 7-10 kg. The impressive thing is that its tail is up to 60 cm long, which is quite long compared to its body. In most species, its legs are short and slender, so its tail also serves as a means of balance.
Source: Wikipedia
Roe deer (Capreolus capreolus)
It is the smallest species of the deer family. In winter it is found at lower altitudes while in summer it climbs higher depending on the quantity and quality of food. It lives in a variety of forest habitats (deciduous or mixed forests with conifers) and occurs in large populations in central and northern Europe. In Greece, small populations of deer remain in the mountainous areas of mainland Greece. The species is classified as vulnerable, which means that if it continues to be extirpated it will soon be threatened with extinction.
source: Arcturus https://www.arcturos.gr/
Wildcat (Felis silvestris)
Like all felines, wildcats have a flexible body, covered in dense fur and can jump. Their tail is relatively long. Wildcats live in forests and are nocturnal animals with acute senses of sight and hearing. They can climb trees with great ease. Except during the breeding season, they live solitary lives. The care of the young is the sole responsibility of the mother. Wild cats feed mainly on small birds, rodents and other small mammals, frogs and reptiles. They usually capture their prey by surprise attack, waiting in ambush until it comes within a short distance. Generally males are larger than females.
Source: Wikipedia
Alpine newt
The alpine newt is a species of salamander that has adapted to life in the icy depths of high altitude lakes. These amphibians are endemic to the Pindus mountain range. They have a long tail that allows them to swim with ease in their aquatic environment. Although not currently considered endangered, their population is vulnerable to habitat degradation and pollution. Scientists are studying the genetic diversity of alpine newts in an effort to better understand their ecology and develop conservation strategies to protect their species. The unique adaptation of these creatures to their extreme environment is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of life even in the harshest conditions.
Source: Wikipedia
Wildflowers
Pindos is a botanist's paradise, with an incredible variety of wildflowers that represent over 40% of the Greek flora. In spring and summer, the mountain slopes are covered in vivid colours, with flowers such as ramodendas, orchids and lilies creating a vibrant carpet on the ground. One of the most striking alpine plants of Pindos is the rare and endemic Primula veris, a delicate plant that grows in the rugged Pindus soil. This plant stands out in the harsh landscape with its soft yellow petals and delicate fragrance. Apart from its beauty, Primula veris has a serious purpose. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to combat respiratory and nervous system ailments. Its roots and leaves are a common ingredient in teas and tonics. No wonder locals have come to appreciate this plant and its many benefits. Primula veris is a testament to the healing powers of nature and the hardy resilience of life that perseveres, even in the harshest environments.
Trees and forests
The mountainous area of Pindos boasts a variety of trees that vary according to the altitude at which they grow. At higher altitudes, coniferous trees such as fir and pine dominate the landscape. These trees have the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions and extreme temperatures. Oaks, beeches, holm oaks and maples are common at medium altitudes, while other deciduous trees such as chestnut, walnut and plane trees thrive at lower altitudes. Soil, temperature and rainfall at different altitudes play an important role in shaping the type of trees growing in a particular area. With the dramatic decline in rural population and livestock farming, forests are occupying more and more of the Pindus mountain range year after year, shaping the aesthetics of the landscapes as well as biodiversity. The detailed types of forests are shown below, on the land use map of the European Space Agency (Esa).
Pindos is a unique and diverse region that has so much to offer. By respecting the natural environment and being careful during your visit, you can enjoy the beauty of Pindos and at the same time help in its conservation efforts. Enjoy your hike!
Read more:
The forest types of Greece as shown on the land use map of the European Space Agency (ESA).
Source: ESA Greece Land Cover Map
