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Wildlife & Plant Life
During your walks you will see the rich and varied wildlife and plant life of the Basque Country. Here are some of the most typical examples:
Wildlife
Miniature Basque horses: You will almost certainly come across these in the mountains (pronounce: pot-yok).
This particular race which only exists in the Basque Country is the descendent of a prehistoric horse. It is perfectly suited to life in the mountains. This small horse was for many years used in both farming and mining.
The pottok is a wild, but docile and generous animal.
- crédit photo cdt 64
Manex sheep: In the Basque Country we breed a particular race of sheep known as Manex (pronounce man-esh).
They are easily distinguishable with their black heads and curved horns.
Their milk is used to make Ardi Gasna (sheep's cheese).
- crédit photo cdt 64
Betisoak: Wild cattle
On the slopes of La Rhune you will perhaps have the occasion to meet Betisoak, wild cattle which roam freely in the mountains.
Their coat is white/grey, they have large horns and live in herds.
Birds of prey : During your walks, don't forget to look up into the sky to see the birds of prey which inhabit our region: falcons, buzzards, ravens and even vultures.
Plant life
It is true that "the Basque Country is green" since it is home to particular plant and tree species:
- Blue endive
- Evergreen rose bush
- Immortelle des dunes
- Chrithme and its sweet citronella smell
- American oak
- Chestnut tree
- Birch
