Crete is proud of its wild goats named "Kri-Kri." You can find them just in a few isolated areas, in particular, in the Samaria National Park. And have you ever met a wildcat? Crete is very famous for its wildcats, and they are way larger than ordinary cats! These cats have bodies that can reach 50 cm in length with a 30 cm long tail; the fur colouring is light brown with dark spots. Usually, you can find wildcats on Mount Ida and also in the region of the White Mountains. Besides, you can see lots of hedgehogs, weasels, badgers, and many other mammals in Crete.
There are lots of eagles, swallows, cranes, pelicans, and butterflies as well. You will have a chance to see unique species of bats, namely the European free-tailed bat, the greater horseshoe bat, the lesser horseshoe bat, and Blasius's horseshoe bat.
Crete is home to sea turtles, including the green turtle, leatherback turtle, and the hawksbill sea turtle. Hiking is a great chance to see different lizards and snakes like the Balkan whip snake, cat snake, leopard snake, and many others. Don't worry, the snakes are usually harmless for humans. The cat snake is the one with venom, but the poison is too weak to cause damage to a human. The sea life in Crete is marvellous, lots of bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and Mediterranean monk seal await you.
From April until October are the best months to enjoy the wildlife in Crete. Spring is the time when the island awakens from winter and rains; the air is very fresh and everything is green, and animals are the most active. Besides, keep in your mind, Samaria's gorge, can be closed to visitors due to weather conditions around April when it's raining much or windy outside. That almost never happens in May and summer months.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Crete for wildlife watching?
The wildlife in Crete is most active between April and October, making it the best time for visitors to observe them. Samaria's gorge may be inaccessible in April due to weather conditions such as rainfall and wind. However, severe weather in the summer months is rare. Spring is a good time to visit, and there is plenty to explore on the island during this season. Show more
Where can I find the Kri-Kri wild goats in Crete?
Kri-Kri wild goats inhabit a few isolated areas in Crete, especially Samaria National Park, which is on the western side of the island. The park is an excellent place to see these unique animals up close. The goats have brown-grey fur, curved horns, and are known for their agility. Visitors can expect to see them roaming freely throughout the park. Show more
What types of sea turtles can I see in Crete?
The green turtle, leatherback turtle, and hawksbill sea turtle are three species of sea turtles that can be found in Crete. In addition to Chania and Zakynthos Beach, the Gulf of Messara is another location on the island where visitors can spot these magnificent creatures. Observing them in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that visitors to Crete should not miss. Show more
Where is the best place to see wildcats in Crete?
Mount Ida and the region of the White Mountains are the best locations to observe wildcats, which are a light-brown color with dark spots. These magnificent creatures are fascinating to watch, and visitors can safely photograph them in their natural environment. Taking a tour of the mountains is an excellent way to explore the island's wildlife, including various mammals, lizards, and snakes. Show more
What are some unique species of bats that can be found in Crete?
Several unique species of bats inhabit Crete, including the European free-tailed bat, the greater horseshoe bat, the lesser horseshoe bat, and Blasius's horseshoe bat. These bats are nocturnal and can be challenging to spot. To see them in their natural habitat, visitors can explore the many caves on the island at night. It's a unique way to uncover a fascinating aspect of Crete's wildlife. Show more
