Lesvos remains one of the most natural and unspoilt islands in the Aegean Archipelago. It has more than 1400 different species of plant life. That is a lot of species for any island and more than enough to create a wealth of interest for wild flower enthusiasts. Among the many wild flowers and orchids, which are covering the hillsides of the District of Polichnitos the following species are just a few rare examples :
Krinos tis thalassas (Pancratium maritimum) : This rare, very beautiful, white and fragrant wild lily, growing in clusters of 3 - 12 flowers in the shape of a crown covers large areas of the Vatera beach in the autumn.
Kokkini Toulipa (Tulipa boeotica ) : In the springtime in an area within the pine forest not far from Vrisa, you can admire this rare plant with large, bell shaped, red flowers.
Orchidea (Ophrys lutea): This small delicate yellow orchid with the black centre can be located near the small pine forest by the school at Vrisa.
Amarandos (Limonium sinuatum): In the springtime this low growing plant with its lilac blue flowers carpets large areas surounding the Vatera beach.
Ntourato: A rare species of flora used as a base form in making Viagra.
Rhododendron Luteum Sweet: We must also mention, that the Rhododendron cannot be found in other parts of Greece except Lesvos.
The forests of Lesvos are the home for many wild animals and birds; specifically very popular to the island is the not common squirrel (Sciurus Anomalus). It is also worth to mention that the fox is the largest breeding animal on the island.
Lesvos is a very special place for birds and an extremely rewarding location for watching them. In the last 10 years, 325 species have been recorded across the island, in wetlands and riversides. Birdwatchers from all over the world arrive in the early spring to witness the mass migration of birds, as well as to observe the indigenous birds in the habitat.
At the Salt Pans at Skala Polichnitos you can find the Greater Flamingo, Great White Egret, Avocet, Black stork, Pintail and Black-necked Grebe and many others. At the centre of Polichnitos town you can view and photograph the White Storck's nest on the tall chimney of the old olive press.
Vatera is an authentic paradise for birds. Having a gentle bay with calm waters and a long unspoilt beach it encourages flocks of indigent and migrant birds all year around to take shelter and be observed in several locations around the resort and the wider area. Some of those include, the Hoopoe, Sardinian Warblers and Honey Buzzards.
At Almyropotamos River, West of Vatera you can watch bird species such as Wagtails, Little Ringed Plower and many more. Also a large number of turtles can be watched and fed at springtime along the riverbanks.
