When arriving in Flores, you will quickly meet the calm, apeasing presence of cows, a veritable emblem of the Azores. Further down the trail you might see some horses, donkeys, goats, or sheep peacefully grazing in the pastures.
For decades these animals have maintained the pastures fenced by dry stone walls forming pretty puszzles on the flanks of the hillsides. Their presence is an indispensable aid for the human who would not be able to maintain the abundant vegetation.
They are also a source of food for the majority of the Florentines who eat meat every day.
Traditionally, a pig lives at the foot of the house as well as the dog and other farm animals.
As there isn't wild game to hunt, man raises his animals.
In 2013, the wild rabbits were the most numerous of the island until arrived a virus that exterminated the grand majority. You might see one or two in the higher parts of the island if you pay attention.
Ferrets, mice, and rats are the only wild mammals hidden in the forest. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the smallest bird in europe, the firecrest.
It is in the air and water where the greatest animal diversity is found. Land, sea, and migratory birds still live in peace in this nature. One protected species is the shearwater (cagarro in portuguese) that comes to nest in the cliffs, very recognizable by its nocturnal call.

Due to the immediate depth of the ocean surrounding Flores, there is a great variety of fish, cetaceans, including dolphins.

One fauna, as varied and colored that populates the island is that, the human.
There is evidently a large number os portuguese people born in Flores, oftentimes agricultors, cultivators, farmers and also government workers.
Then there are portugues emigrants who have returned from the Americas and speak fluent english or french who have seen many countries and lived expatriation.
The latter often fill the gap between native florentines and adopted floretines. Adopted florentines can be portuguese or other nationalities. About 10 years ago, many germans, generally retired, came and settled here.
Now more young europeans or americans under the charm of Flores wish to live here.
There is also an international migration during the summer season be it by sailboat or by air.
The portuguese people remain welcoming and everyone meets and greets without distinction.
The island has a small population, there is enough space for all.