Fauna
- Dolphin
Madeira´s Animal Kingdom...
When comparing the fauna to the flora of Madeira Island, it is without a doubt that Madeira´s flora is much richer in diversity.
In the deep Atlantic waters species such as the black scabbard fish (Aphanopus carbo), Red Hogfish (Pseudolepidaplois scrofa)," Haddock, parrot fish (Sparisoma cretense), Manta ray (Manta birostris), swordfish, sardines and of course the tuna fish are found. Madeira´s beautifully diverse coastline is frequented by whales, dolphins and sea lions.
- Fauna - Birds
As for birds, around 40 species that thrive in the region have been accounted for. The Madeira Firecrest (Regulus ignicapillus), is a small endemic bird of striking beauty that resides in the Laurissilva forest. The Canary (Serinus canaria) / Island Canary dominate the coastal areas and are more noticeable in comparison to other species due to the gray and green colours of their plumage.
Apart from these small birds, other common birds such as seagulls, the gray heron, Leach's Petrel (Oceanodroma leucorhoa), White-faced Storm-Petrel (Pelagodroma marina) and the Wilson's Storm-petrel (Oceanites oceanicus) inhabit the island.
- Wall Lizard
There are no snakes in Madeira. The only existing reptiles on the island are the Wall Lizards (Podarcis muralis), which are harmless. About 700 species of insects, many of which are endemic, live on the island. In Deserted Islands, a rare and unique species that is found nowhere else in the world resides here: A Tarantula with a body length of 4.5cm