Albania

Albania is located in the Balkans, on the Adriatic and Ionian coasts, within the Mediterranean Sea. It is characterized by a diverse flora and fauna, with geomorphology, climate and topography providing favorable conditions for many endemic and sub-endemic species. Albania is home to 30% of the total flora and 42% of the fauna of Europe. Albania has 799 designated protected areas covering an area of 5,216.96 square kilometers. These include 14 national parks, 1 marine park, 4 Ramsar sites, 3 World Heritage sites, 45 important plant areas, 16 important bird sanctuaries and 786 protected areas of different categories. Albanian forests are home to significant communities of large mammals such as the Brown Bear, Grey Wolf, Chamois and Wild Boar. The country's northern and eastern mountains are home to the last remaining Balkan Lynx. Some 760 species of vertebrates have been found in Albania so far. These include more than 350 bird species, 330 freshwater and marine fish species and 80 mammal species. The country is home to some 91 globally threatened species, including the Dalmatian Pelican, the Dwarf Cormorant and the European Sea Sturgeon. The southern rocky coastline provides good habitat for the endangered Mediterranean Monk Seal. Among the most important bird species in the country are the Vulture. I am coming here frequently since 1994 for a whole range of reasons, from Barn Owl research projects to photo safaris and conferences. For those seeking the hidden natural treasures of the Adriatic coast, Albania is highly recommended.