Animals of Sardinia: Wild Horses, Donkeys & Griffon Vultures
Sardinia was long separated from mainland Italy by water – and its own, partly endemic wildlife developed accordingly. A few animals worth watching for.
The wild horses of the Giara
On the Giara di Gesturi plateau inland, a distinct small horse breed lives in the wild: the Cavallino della Giara. The animals are noticeably smaller than ordinary domestic horses and live outdoors year-round on the basalt plateau – a rare sight in Europe.
The white donkeys of Asinara
On the offshore island of Asinara in the northwest lives a striking donkey breed: white, with strikingly blue eyes. The island was long off-limits (first a quarantine station, later a high-security prison) and is now a national park – one reason such an unusual population survived here. We tell the island's eventful history – from the Mafia to national park – in our (German-language) dedicated article on Asinara.
Mouflons in the Supramonte
In the mountain regions, especially the Supramonte in the island's east, mouflons live – hardy wild sheep with characteristic curved horns. Sightings aren't guaranteed, but are quite possible while hiking in the more untouched mountain areas.
Flamingos in the coastal lagoons
Pink flamingos aren't rare in Sardinia: they're regularly seen in coastal lagoons, for instance behind La Cinta beach near San Teodoro, at Porto Giunco (Villasimius), or in the salt pans near Cagliari.
Practical notes
- Respectful distance: all the animals mentioned live wild or semi-wild – please avoid feeding them or getting too close.
- Best time: for the Giara horses and mouflons, early morning or late afternoon hours improve your chances of a sighting.
- Asinara: access to the island is regulated – trips are usually only possible via organized tours or boats from Stintino/Porto Torres.