Animals in Morocco

Animals in Morocco





Animals in Morocco are of diverse types, with considerable variations in their food tendencies and types of habitations. Generally Animals in Morocco refers to wild and domestic organisms together, both of which exert positive influences on the surrounding environment of the country.



Dorcas Gazelle is one of the primary Morocco Animals. It is the smallest of all gazelles, with the longest pair of legs. Both males and female Gazelles possess long, curved horns. They are mostly vegetation in nature, thriving especially on Acacia leaves. They are active generally during early mornings and evenings, and remain hidden during proper daytimes owing to the scorching heat of the desert areas in which they live. The most striking feature about a Dorcas gazelle is that it can survive without water throughout its lifetime, as the total water demand of this animal is met by the plants it feeds upon.

Fennec Fox, the smallest of all foxes is an integral part of the Wildlife in Morocco. Its big eyes and huge ears help it to remain cool amidst the intense desert heat as well as take notice of potential foods or enemies. Its usual habitation is the burrows near the Sahara Desert region, where it sleeps during daytime to avoid the outside heat. After the darkness, it comes out of the burrows for hunting lizards and other insects and eats fruit and eggs also.

Sloughi is a dog and another important Moroccan Fauna. Also called the "Arabian Sighthound", it belongs to the same family as the salukis, greyhounds and Afghans. This beast in Morocco is bred mainly for hunting purposes. Its long legs help it to run very fast. Sloughis as a well-known animal life in Morocco is intelligent, faithful and friendly with children.

Native Plants of Animals Moroccan

Native Plants of Morocco. The Mediterranean climate of the North African Kingdom of Morocco combines the warmth of the desert with the cool breezes
Native Plants
Morocco is home to a variety of plant species. Its geographical location and unusual desert and mountain terrain give rise to many different types of flora. There is an estimated 4,979 different types of plant taxa in Morocco. Nine major families that include more than 100 species each make up 60 percent of Morocco's flora. The genus Silene is the most diverse Moroccan flora---containing more than 69 species. Other important Moroccan families include Asteraceae, Poaceae, Fabaceae, and Caryophyllaceae.

Land Mammals
Morocco has an estimated 105 species of land mammals, and close to 18 are considered endangered. One of the most common mammals is the dorcas gazelle, the smallest gazelle that exists. This particular breed has long, curved horns on both the males and females and very long legs. They tend to feed on Acacia leaves and are very active in the evening and morning, due to the heat of the Moroccan desert. They rarely drink water and absorb the water from plants they eat.

The Sloughi, a species of dog, is one of the most interesting Moroccan animals. Sloughis are often domesticated and are used for hunting. They appear very similar in appearance to greyhounds and are also very fast.

Birds
Although the desert heat can be hard on many animals, Morocco boasts more than 454 species of birds, nearly all of them native to the country. The most common types of birds include pheasants, pigeons, doves, woodpeckers, and partridges. Other types of birds that occupy the coast include pelicans, gulls, and boobies. Ducks, swans, storks, flamingos, and even ostriches are native to Morocco as well.

Comprehensive information on plant increase and animals living in Morocco. You can find considerable areas of forest ,,i would kindly like to ask what's the chance of encountering dangerous animals in morocco? Namely cobras or scorpions.

Animals Moroccan

The geographical terrain of Morocco is one of the most grueling in the world during the heat of the day as it is mostly desert. Despite this, Morocco is home to many species of plants and animals. The majority of these plants and animals have adapted to the terrain and have become excellent at utilizing what little water is available to them.

Dorcas Gazelle - is the smallest of all gazelles, but also has the longest legs. Both males and females have long, curved horns. They like to eat vegetation, especially Acacia leaves. They are active mostly during the early morning and eveing, since it is so hot in the middle of the day in the desert areas where they live. A Dorcas gazelle may go its entire life without drinking water, because it gets all that it needs from the plants it eats! Fennec Fox - is the smallest of all foxes, but it also has big eyes and huge ears. The Fennec's ears help them keep cool in the desert heat and also help them hear potential food or enemies. Fennecs live in burrows where they sleep during the heat of the day. This is important since most Fennec foxes live near the Sahara desert. They hunt at night and like to eat insects, lizards, eggs and fruit. Sloughi - (pronouce "Slew-gee") is a dog! It is also called an Arabian sighthound and is in the same family as greyhounds, afghans and salukis. This dog was originally bred in Morocco and was often bred for hunting. It has long legs and it runs very fast! Sloughis are faithful and intelligent and get along well with children.

Animals Of Morocco And Vegetation

Vegetation And Animals Of Morocco or the Flora of Morocco

Morocco's vegetation and animals are the most important part of the country's ecosystem. Home to world's largest desert, the Sahara, Morocco has some of the most interesting flora and fauna that is a must for every visitor.

The country of Morocco has a huge variety not just in the landscape but eventually its climate and even its vegetation. The climate in the north is Mediterranean, Atlantic to the west and dry Saharian to the south. The winters are nice and cold though a bit humid, while the summers are hot and arid. There is ample sunshine through out the years and more than 8 hours per day which helps a variety of vegetation to grow. You can also find a wide variety of animal life though not as rich as the flora.


The kingdom of Morocco is extremely rich in unique species of plants. The Mediterranean coastal climate is very good and favorable for the healthy growth of great vegetation. You would find Cork Oak is large numbers is northern parts of this country. The costal vegetation is prominently a large exotic collection of Casuarina, Eucalyptus, Citrus, Loquat, Acacia and many others. In the wetter places there are vast meadows and orchards with plants such as fennel commonly found.

There is a substantial part of the Middle Atlas which is mere remnant of the Cedar forest that existed in this region though it covers an impressive amount of area. Generally in the mountainous steppe regions you will find unique species of shrubs, jujube trees, mastics, poplars, tamarisks and willows. The overall vegetation is Mediterranean in the mountains with thuya, holm oak, juniper etc. the plains mostly have cork oaks, olive trees and the argan trees. In the interior region it is mostly the esparto plants and the artemisia plants that are found. The Alpine zone is typically above the 2500m and mostly supports Vicia canescens in huge quantity. The hundred odd species of plants found here are exclusive and found nowhere else. The Vicia canescens are not palatable to goats which has saved them from being grazed unlike other plants.

The Argan forest is the last barrier that stands strong between desertification and Morocco. These forest have the high value Argan trees that are useful in cosmetics and creation of medicines. With some dangers from the fishing and farming communities there are national parks that have been planned to conserve these Argan forests. These trees not only have cosmetic value they also have great resistance to droughts and have capability to adjust to the environmental changes. These have to be saved with assistance of locals to ensure that further desertification is stopped.

Even the Sahara desert is home to some herbs and small shrubs. Where the moisture levels are higher you may find larger shrubs. You would often find the bushes widely spaced. Generally in the steppe areas the scrub vegetation is mostly climax vegetation like Ephemerals in north and halophytes in sandy areas. Overall the sandy desert does not support much vegetation.

The vegetation is precious and efforts are being taken to ensure that it is saved from extinction as it will help slow down desertification.

The Animal Kingdom Of Morocco

Morocco has plenty of wildlife and has a government that is equally conscious about wildlife conservation. Lets take a look at some of Morocco's wildlife and the efforts involved in their conservation.

The animal kingdom of Morocco is not as rich as the flora. The Lions and a form of red deer that inhabited the country have gradually become extinct. But you would surely find other species like panthers, jackals, foxes and gazelles in most parts of the country. You may also find the North African Cheetah in some parts in small numbers. Though scientists haven’t been able to spot many cheetahs, local nomads confirm their existence in the country but surely in lesser numbers.

The fauna is an interesting mix of the species from the Palaearctische Region and African region. There are some species of small Dorcas Gazelles that can survive on water it gets from plants it eats. The only monkey found in Morocco is the Magot, which is rare as deforestation is taking a toll on it. The smallest foxes, the fennec fox are also found near the Sahara desert that survive on insects, lizards and fruits. Another one from the canine family is the Sloughi called also as Arabian sighthound, which comes from the same family as greyhounds and salukis.

There is a wind range of lizards and skinks found in the deserts of the Sahara. You may find lizards like the Atlas Dwarf Lizard, which are endemic to Morocco, as they have a natural habitat with temperate shrub lands and rocky areas. Manuel’s skinks, Ebner’s skinks are some of the species that have been largely endangered by some agricultural practices. There are some species of newts like the Iberian Ribbed Newt that can be found here.

You would also be able to catch a glimpse of different species of birds like Flamingos, Pelicants, Falcons, Buttonquails, storm-petrels, sandpipers, small species of bats, mapies, larks, swallows, martins etc. There are three species of Divers – the red throated, black throated and the great northern diver found in Morocco. Grebes, which are the fresh water diving birds can also be found. The lammergeyer, dark chanting goshawk and tawny eagle are also nearly extinct from Morocco.

The Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea are home to some rich ocean wildlife. Though affected by the fish poaching as well as due to over fishing and contamination of waters there has been a reduction in number of fishes like mullets, sea beams, marlin, sea perch, grouper, tuna, barracudas and swordfish. You may also find fish in the tranquil lakes and rivers. These are home to fish like carp, perch, black bass, trouts, barbell, eel and roach. However, with the number of fishes on a lower side there are many restrictions that are being implemented. If you have the required permit you may hire fishing vessels to go deep sea fishing from the ports of Mohammedia and Saharan.

The kingdom of Morocco provides animal and adventure lovers great opportunities to explore the flora and fauna in all landscapes of the country and catch a glimpse of some exotic varieties more than any place else.

Rare Vintage Morocco Pentagram Star Coin Pendant

Rare Vintage Morocco Pentagram Star Coin Pendant


 
You are looking at a rare Morocco pentagram star pendant.It measures 1 1/4" or 28mm in diameter.They were minted between 1920 and 1950.The date is in Arabic.They are silver plated.Check out the great detail!!!

Prior to the coinage reform of 1889, Moroccan coins were either hammered or cast, and counterfeits abounded. What was lacking in local coins was made up for by the circulation of large quantities of foreign silver currency.

Shown is a four falus cast copper coin from the Marrakesh mint. It was issued under Sidi Mohammed IV. The seal of Solomon decorates the obverse, and the issuing mint and date appear on the reverse. The date is AH 1284, or 1867 AD.

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• Category: Coins & Currency

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Rare MOROCCO Coins 5 Francs 1370 Maroc Empire Cherifien !Beautiful VERY RARE coin from morocco

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Old Morocco 10 mazunas AH1340 large bronze coin RARE!

Marrakech (Marrakesh) foods

Marrakech (Marrakesh) is filled with "must see" attractions. Just strolling around the old-walled city (medina) is enough to fill your senses with smells, sights and sounds that will stay with you long after you have left. Bring your sense of humour and try a kebab on the Djemma el Fna, or prepare your own delicious meal at one of the culinary schools in the city. Explore the bustling medina with its wonderful souks and museums, and then take a relaxing breather in the Majorelle gardens. Steam in a traditional hammam and bargain for a lamp. Get more ideas about what to see and do in Marrakech, from my list below.

1. Dinner at the Djemma el Fna

The Djemma el Fna is really the heart of Marrakech, it's a large central square in the old city. At the end of the afternoon it transforms into a medieval entertainment center. Snack stalls are replaced with stalls offering more substantial fare and the square comes alive with jugglers, snake charmers and story-tellers, drawing local crowds. While the food is fresh, the meat won't exactly melt in your mouth, but you're here for the atmosphere. Dinner should cost around $10 per person and Moroccans dine late, so go after 8pm. Be fully prepared to be hustled by each stall owner, even though most offer the same fare. If you can't take the sales pitch fenzy, just say "I already had dinner", it may work. Remember it's all just fun.


2. Take a Cooking Course

The cuisine of Morocco has been enjoyed by many, but mastered by few outside of Morocco. When you are in Marrakech a perfect way to spend a day is to shop for ingredients in the local markets and then learn how to prepare a traditional Moroccan meal, guided by a professional local cook. Several Riads offer informal cooking classes but there are excellent formal classes. Recommended options include:

Ateliers d'ailleurs
La Maison Arabe
Riad Kniza Cooking Workshops
More on: Cooking Courses and Culinary Vacations in Morocco.

3. Find Peace in the Majorelle Gardens

The Majorelle Gardens in Marrakech are filled with rare plants, bright colors and peace. The botanical gardens are situated north-west of the Medina of Marrakech, about a 30 minute walk. (Stop by the wholesale market en route to see mountains of dates, nuts and grains getting bought and sold). Try and get there by 10 am before the busloads of tourists arrive.

The Majorelle Gardens were designed by a French painter Jacques Majorelle who settled in Marrakech in 1919. In 1980, Pierre Bergé and Yves Saint Laurent repurchased the gardens and faithfully restored them. Majorelle's workshop is now a small Museum dedicated to Islamic Art. Yves Saint Laurent died in June, 2008 and had his ashes scattered in the Majorelle Gardens.

4. Shop 'til You Drop in the Medina

There is no shortage of things to buy in Marrakech and indeed when you step into the souks inside the Medina walls of old Marrakech, you'll be getting the hard sell on lamps, hookahs, trinkets and carpets. I usually shop my way through my entire stay in Marrakech. The key is to enjoy bargaining, stay friendly, and know what your price limit is. If you find yourself inside a carpet shop (anyone using a guide will end up in one), don't feel pressured to buy and just leave a small tip for the guys who roll them out for you. They are beautiful to look at and sometimes it's quite nice to sit down and enjoy a little cup of tea. For quality contemporary art, check out Galerie Rê and the Matisse Art Gallery.

5. Steam in a Traditonal Hammam

The hammam is a public steam bath in Morocco. Hammams used to be the only place people could come to bathe and scrub, since a private bathroom in a house or apartment was a luxury few could afford. Nowadays, you'll find less "public hammams", but there are plenty of upscale hammams in Riads and luxury hotels. They offer more Western style massages and scrubs, while still using local products. To pamper yourself check out Les Bains de Marrakech. If you're on a mid-range budget check out Hammam Ziani. For a "real" experience ask for the local working class hammam, usually next to a mosque. A local hammam is a wonderful, eye-opening cultural experience. It offers women travelers in particular a chance to meet local women. More about hammams

6. Visit the Wool Dyers Souk

The real working souks behind the tourist trinket stalls along the main thoroughfares in the Marrakech medina, are my favorite places to get lost in. Photos aren't always welcome in these parts, but if you ask politely, you may be given permission to snap away. The blacksmiths, woodworkers and dyers are hard at work every day. If you enjoy riots of color and watching traditional artisans at work, you should make every attempt to find the Dyers souk where you'll see huge colorful loops of silk and wool hanging to dry. The dyers will show you how they use their dye, boil the wool etc. It's fascinating and it's what makes Marrakech so attractive, people still work here -- it's not all for tourists.

7. Attend the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival

The annual Marrakech Popular Arts festival, held in July, attracts folk singers, dancers, fortune-tellers, acting troupes, snake charmers, fire-swallowers and more, from all over Morocco. The main events take place in the ruins of the 16 century Badi Palace and the Djemma el Fna. If you're lucky, you can see the real Fantasia. It's a horse-riding spectacle that includes hundreds of charging horsemen (and women) wearing traditional clothing. You can experience the Fantasia in the evenings outside the city walls near the Bab Jdid. If you don't get to see it in July, there's a restaurant that offers the Fantasia as entertainment while you dine, the Chez Ali.


8. Palais Dar Si Said (Museum of Moroccan Arts)

A palace and museum in one and well worth a visit. The palace is opulent and beautiful in itself with a lovely courtyard where you can relax and take some pictures. The museum's displays are well laid out and include jewelery, costumes, ceramics, daggers and other artifacts. The museum is open daily with a couple of hours break for lunch. It's advisable to get there early and avoid the tour groups.

Facts About Morocco

Morocco is situated in the north-western corner of Africa. It shares international borders with Algeria in the east, Spain in the north (a water border) and Mauritania in the south. Morocco also has a coast on the Atlantic Ocean, which reaches past the Strait of Gibraltar, into the Mediterranean Sea. The breathtaking natural landscape and magnificent architectural tradition of Morocco have been wooing travelers since ages. In fact, the mesmerizing natural splendor of the country has won it the name of the ‘Oasis of the Senses’. Right from the sandy Sahara Desert to the snow capped Atlas Mountains, the country offers great diversity. To know more about the destination, browse through the following information.

 

Fun & Interesting Facts about Morocco 

The official name of Morocco is the ‘Kingdom of Morocco’. It spreads over an area of approximately 710,850 sq km.

The capital of Morocco is Rabbat, while its currency is Moroccan dirham.

Morocco gained independence from France in 1956.

Morocco is situated in North Africa and it is the only African country that is presently not a member of the ‘African Union’.

Morocco is a member of the Arab League, Arab Maghreb Union, the Francophonie, Organization of the Islamic Conference, Mediterranean Dialogue group and Group of 77.

 Morocco is a major non-NATO ally of the United States.

The full Arabic name of Morocco is ‘Al-Mamlaka al-Maghribiya’, which translates to ‘The Western Kingdom’.

The Moroccan Constitution provides for a monarchy with a Parliament and an independent judiciary.

The official language of Morocco is Arabic. However, Berber (another dialect) and French are also spoken widely.

Arabs and Berbers make up majority of the population of Morocco, followed by Jews and others.

A number of stone circles, present in Morocco, serve as the proof of its contact with the megalithic cultures of Atlantic Europe.

The shrine of Sidi Yahya, situated in Oujda city of Morocco, is said to be the tomb of ‘John the Baptist’.

The University in Fes, founded in 859 AD, claims to be the oldest university in the world.

In the previous times, it was unlawful to sell a date tree, as it was a source of food for the family.

Tangier was an International City, from 1922 to 1956, being ruled by representatives of eight European countries.

The ‘Green March, undertake to claim the Spanish colony of Western Sahara, is celebrated as a national holiday in Morocco.

Moroccan cuisine is a mixture of European and African cuisine, due to its location between Europe and Africa.

Morocco is the 12th richest country in Africa.

Most of the Moroccans eat things made from wheat and barley.