Wildlife

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Wildlife of Monte Gordo

Birds
Passer iagoensis (Pardal-de-Terra) Yago Sparow An endemic species of Cape Verde, this bird is commonly seen everywhere in the area of the park. It inhabits in trees, tree openings, rocks, on the ground, and under rocks. The male has a brown head and neck while the female is all dark.

Falco tinnunculus neglectus (Zabelinha) Neglected Kestrel Known as a “violent robbery bird,” the Neglected Kestrel can be seen throughout the park. This bird loves to inhabit holes in rocks and on the tops of palm trees. It can be seen flying about the agricultural areas of the park looking for food such as pintainhos and small vertebrates.

Apus alexandri (Andorinhão) Cape Verde Swift This bird can seem to be everywhere in the park. The bird has some very interesting flight characteristics. It can fly while eating, sleeping, and mating. It dwells in holes in rocks and in peoples homes. (Photo by Mike Danzenbaker)

Acrocephalus brevipennis (Tchota-de-cana) Cape Verde Cane Warbler This endemic species, thought to be extinct according to the 1st Red List of Cape Verde, was found again in the area of the natural park of Monte Gordo. Its location is restricted to forest areas especially areas with a great population of Arundo donax (Cariço). It prefers to live in the stems of Cariço or Sugar cane.

Tyto alba detorta (Coruja) Cape Verde Barn Owl This endemic bird is a nocturnal creature and can be found more easily in inhabited and cultivated areas. It lives in holes of tree trunks and openings of rocks in the escarpments.
Amphibians and Reptiles
Bufo regularis (Sapo) Toad The only species of amphibious found in the park area. It can be seen everywhere on the island in the rainy season, in the humid areas. It is a small animal that has a very important function in the ecosystem since it feeds on insects.

Chioninia fogoensis nicolauensis (Lagartixa) Skink This species can be seen everywhere in the park, but is more common in the south, where the temperature is more dry and cold. During sunny days the lizard can be easily found between slits of rocks, taking the sun. With the slightest sign of any danger it quickly hides in between rocks. It feeds on insects.

Tarentola caboverdiana nicolauensis (Osga) Gecko This is an animal with nocturnal habits. During the day it hides under stones and under pieces of wood. At night it goes out in search of food. It can be seen in human dwellings. Its diet constitutes of insects.