Grasslands
Ávila
This section of the route crosses extensive areas of natural grassland, traditionally used as grazing areas for livestock, mainly cattle and, to a lesser extent, sheep. These open spaces, simple in appearance, harbor surprising biodiversity, with a wide variety of grasses, legumes, composites, and other herbaceous plants adapted to shallow soils and a climatic regime of cold winters and dry summers.
The presence of livestock is not only compatible with the conservation of these grasslands but is essential for their maintenance. Controlled grazing favors plant diversity, prevents the accumulation of dry matter that could fuel fires, and facilitates seed dispersal.
In spring, these fields become a true mosaic of colors and a refuge for pollinating insects, insectivorous birds, and reptiles that take advantage of both plant cover and direct sunlight. A clear example of how human activity can harmoniously integrate into the ecological cycles of the territory.
