The formation of the Sierra de Salinas plays the role of a natural border between the northern part of the province of Murcia and other regions of Alto and Medio Vinalopo, in the province of Alicante. This Sierra is part of the Prebaetic System, and around it are the municipalities of Yecla, Salinas, and Villena.
Topography
The Sierra de Salinas is extended by 15 kilometers of sedimentary rocks whose predominant component is calcium carbonate. They are also usually accompanied by carbonates such as magnesite.
The relief of the mountains presents a large number of hills. Also, these hills are mixed with high hills that are sometimes covered with snow.
To the south of the Sierra de Salinas are remote trails and roads that continue to the summit. If you are lucky, and the day allows it, you can contemplate the landscape of the Mediterranean Sea.
On the other hand, towards the north, one can see a road that goes into the mountains. It highlights specific vegetation of the region, also presenting caves and grottos.
Flora
The Sierra de Salinas is formed by a dense pine forest, where Aleppo pine trees predominate.
Above 1,000 meters high, kermes oaks are observed. These are medium-sized trees whose height can reach a maximum of 25 meters. Pyrenean oak coexists next to the kermes oaks that grows on ravines, which generally have higher humidity. Other botanical species present in the Sierra de Salinas are the Laurustinus and the honeysuckle.
We can also find a large number of common junipers, a small plant that grows to a maximum of 2 meters high. Another slightly smaller form of vegetation is heather, which is a plant that generates very beautiful flowers during the summer months.
There are also strawberry trees, which, when they bloom, produce beautiful white flowers.
Wildlife
Birds
Within the Falconidae species of birds are the golden eagle, the sparrow hawk, and the goshawk, all of them large birds of prey.
In the Strigiformes species of birds, we find the eagle owl, while among the small birds there is the European robin, which stands out for its colorful orange plumage. Among the small birds, there is also the crag martin, the chaffinch, the red crossbill, and the blackcap.
Mammals
Among the mammals present, in a very small number, are the wild cat, the genet, and the fox. However, a large number of hares are present throughout the Sierra de Salinas.
Along the route that goes towards Sierra de Salinas, it is common to see badgers, while in the summits, it is possible to find wild boars. Shrews and bats are also present, notably the Rhinolophus genus.
Finally, among reptiles, there are several types of lizards, among them the Salamanquesa and the Lataste's viper. The strangest and least in number is the ladder snake.
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