Fauna of Sazan Island

🐾 A Haven for Biodiversity Sazan Island, located near Vlore, Albania, is home to a surprisingly rich and diverse ecosystem. Despite its small size and past military use, the island supports a wide range of wildlife, making it a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and researchers. 🦇 Mammals and Bats The island hosts 15 species of mammals, including 8 species of bats, such as the common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipistrellus) and soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus), which play a crucial role in the island’s ecological balance by controlling insect populations. 🐦 Birdlife Birdwatchers will find 39 species of birds, including: 23 songbirds 5 birds of prey 3 pigeon species 3 swift species These birds make use of the island’s cliffs, forests, and open areas, particularly during migration seasons. 🦎 Reptiles and Amphibians Sazan Island is also home to 8 species of reptiles and 1 amphibian species, including: The Dalmatian algyroides (Algyroides nigropunctatus) The green toad (Bufotes viridis) The Mediterranean house gecko (Hemidactylus turcicus) 🐞 Invertebrates and Insects A total of 122 invertebrate species have been recorded, including 113 insects. Among them: 40 beetle species 16 butterfly species 22 heteroptera (true bugs) 20 orthoptera (grasshoppers and crickets) 5 dragonfly species 10 hymenoptera (wasps, bees, ants) Experts believe the actual number of insect species is even higher, making Sazan a valuable site for entomological research.