Guadarrama Mountains: Protecting Biodiversity and Butterflies
The Guadarrama Mountains are a high biodiversity hotspot, home to an estimated 130 butterfly species and 2,200 plant species. Reforesta, a conservation organization, is working to improve knowledge and protect both butterflies and plants in the area.
The Reforesta team has received permission to collect seeds of 16 herbaceous species from the Society of Madrid. These seeds will be used to plant new specimens in the mountains in 2025.
Reforesta has also organized field days with the help of volunteers to contribute to the conservation effort. These days involve activities such as population monitoring and habitat restoration.
Unfortunately, the Guadarrama Mountains face numerous threats, including intensive outdoor use, global warming, and invasive species. Centuries of degradation have severely impacted the local flora and fauna.
Reforesta is working to address these challenges by planting food species for butterflies and plants, restoring habitats, and raising awareness about the importance of conservation.
Source: Reforesta