The Wild Islands of Lanzarote

The Wild Islands of Lanzarote is an enlightening documentary on a mission to unveil the ecological significance of the islands and islets of the Chinijo Archipielago. Through the captivating lives of the animal species that call this natural sanctuary home, the imperative of conserving this ecosystem is vividly underscored.

In the footsteps of the rest of the Canary Islands, the Chinijo archipelago owes its origins to volcanic forces. At first glance, it may appear as though no life could flourish in such an austere landscape. Yet, life found its way here, carried by the wind. This seemingly desolate realm has blossomed into a nesting paradise for a diverse array of protected species, including Houbaras, Shearwaters, Eleonora’s Falcons, Kestrels, and Egyptian vultures, which seek out volcanic hollows to rear their young. What’s more, the waters encircling the Chinijo Archipelago constitute one of the Europe’s largest marines reserves. Pilot whales, dolphins, and fin whales grace these waters with their presence, while fish such as the triggerfish thrive on the abundance of nutrients to establish their nesting grounds. The presence of the osprey and the thriving population of Scopoli’s shearwater serve as testament to the robust health of this ecosystem.

The wealth of the Chinijo archipelago transcends mere measurements; it lies in its extraordinary attributes, earning it the moniker “The Islands of Birds” — a title that truly mirrors its paramount importance in the preservation of wildlife within the Canary Islands.