Europe

The old continent is not noted for having a great biodiversity, but it has its own unique species.

Fauna

European fauna is very similar to the fauna that can be found in Asia or North America. There is an abundance of roe deer, ibex, badgers, jays and local species such as reindeer, elks, European bison, stoats and the polar fox. In the Mediterranean areas there are species such as the hedgehog, the chameleon, the toad, various scorpions and numerous insects.  By contrast, in the Eurasian region there is an abundance of aquatic birds and thin skinned mammals, but reptiles and insects are scarce. 

Flora

A belt of deciduous and coniferous trees, from the Atlantic to the Ural Mountains, makes up the largest area of vegetation in Europe and divides the continent into two. The Arctic regions are characterised by tundra vegetation, consisting of lichen, shrubs and wild flowers. On land in the Mediterranean area there are fruit trees, such as olive, orange, mandarin, lemon and fig trees, amongst others. Vines are also very characteristic of the area. In the interior, by contrast, the conditions are ideal for coniferous species, such as the pine. 

Climate

The European continent has five different climates. On the western coast an Atlantic climate predominates, with cold winters and warm summers. The south enjoys a Mediterranean climate, moderated by the effect of the sea, which creates mild winters and warm summers. The interior of Europe is characterised by its continental climate, with long, cold winters and short, warm summers, and high mountain climate at the highest peaks, with very cold winters. The extreme north east has a polar climate, with extremely cold winters and cool summers.