Madeira Island is home to numerous endemic species of fauna and flora. The geographical location and climatic conditions of this region provide unique conditions that guarantee their survival.
Flora (Plants)
The flora of Madeira is a “blooming paradise” for flower lovers. Each season the island blossoms with different striking colors. In the winter months you can find red and white poinsettias as tall as a man. In spring, the purple blossoms of the jacaranda trees shine brightly on the island. In summer, on the other hand, bougainvillean in red and purple tones predominate. In autumn, the delicate purple flowers of the silk-wool tree dominate. The seductive plant splendor on Madeira leaves nothing out and is worth seeing in every respect.
In terms of flora, in addition to the many species characteristic of the laurel forest (laurissilva), there are also many endemic plants such as the Madeira violet (Viola paradoxa), the orchid (Dactylorhiza folhosa), the celandine (Matthiola madeirenses) and the magnificent viper’s bugloss (Echium nervosum).
Fauna (Animals)
Animals on land: The fauna on the island is relatively poor in species. Resident are: Bats, rabbits, wild boars, butterflies, buzzards, doves, species of gulls and swallows, shearwaters, lizards. There are no snakes.
Most notable are the silver-necked pigeon (Columba trocaz), the Madeira goldcrest (Regulus maderensis), the Madeira petrel (Pterodroma madeira) and the Madeira lizard (Teira dugesii).
In the sea: Over 240 species of fish such as scabbardfish (Espada), blue marlin, tuna, redfish, pollack, but also whales, dolphins, monk seals, turtles and many others can be seen.
Fotos and Text: Rainer Georgius
Nature & Culture 
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