What are the little animals in Fuerteventura?

Cuando llegan a Fuerteventura, los turistas pueden ver ardillas en muchas partes de la isla, ya que les gusta quedarse en lugares donde pueden alimentarlos. Los visitantes pueden encontrar ardillas en casi todas las partes de la isla, como Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, Puerto del Rosario, Jandía, Morro Jable y Betancuria. Las ardillas son muy populares entre los visitantes y son muy fotogénicas, pero es importante tener cuidado alrededor de ellas, ya que pueden transmitir enfermedades y virus a otros animales y humanos. Se debe prestar atención a las señales de advertencia y recomendaciones de las autoridades para no alimentar a las ardillas y ayudar a controlar su población. En Fuerteventura, las ardillas son una especie invasiva que ha causado daños importantes a los cultivos y la flora y fauna nativa de la isla. La población de ardillas en Fuerteventura se ha extendido por toda la isla y puede encontrarse en lugares como la playa, el puerto y los parques. Es importante ser consciente de la presencia de las ardillas y tomar medidas para evitar su propagación y proteger el medio ambiente de la isla.

The Squirrels of Fuerteventura are often photographed like celebrities, as they fearlessly approach humans for food. Squirrels must also defend themselves against crows and many species of birds of prey that watch over these close encounters. The squirrels found in Fuerteventura are scientifically named Atlantoxerus getulus and are not native to the island but originate from North Africa. They are highly adaptable to the dry climate and have learned to take advantage of the island’s many stone walls, allowing them to reproduce quickly and establish large populations. However, the presence of squirrels poses a threat to the island’s delicate ecological balance, competing with local fauna such as wild rabbits and the Musaraña canaria. In the wild, squirrels feed on fruits, seeds, shrubs, and insects, while cooked or processed foods can be extremely harmful to their health. Their lively and fearless nature often leads them to beg for food, and many visitors are tempted to feed them, forgetting that — despite their cuteness — squirrels are rodents, sometimes referred to as “rats with an attractive tail.” For this reason, signs prohibiting the feeding of squirrels are posted at many scenic spots around the island. Unfortunately, these are often ignored. At Alma Calma Hotel Rural, we are committed to sustainability and environmental respect in every possible way, kindly asking you not to feed the squirrels.