Lake Pantano is situated close to the hamlet of the same name, which belongs to the municipality of Pignola.
This area, situated at an altitude of 770 metres, came into being following the drainage of an ancient marsh during the Fascist period in the 19th century; Emilio Fittipaldi also observed the presence of otters there.
The reserve covers an area of 155.00 hectares and is so significant, even at an international level, that it has been described as Special Protection Area (SPA) (Special Protection Area) and RAMSAR (International Convention on the Importance of Wetlands) as well as Site of Community Importance (SIC).
To date, it is protected and falls under the auspices of the WWF, which manages it through the Nova Terra Cooperative, whilst also carrying out initiatives aimed at enhancing, promoting and conserving the area.
The same co-operative has also set up an Environmental Education Centre recognised by the regional authorities.
Schools have also been involved, creating specially designed educational programmes both inside and outside the nature reserve.
The area is characterised by rare grasses typical of wetlands, as well as willows, alders and poplars.
The muddy banks of this stretch of water have proved to be an important stopover and breeding site for over 150 species of birds, including
- birds of prey
- buzzards
- coots
- kites
- kestrels
- herons
- cormorants
- dives.
A footpath that can be walked along even in the evening or in winter runs around the lake. In some sections it is made of wood and, as it winds through the surrounding countryside, it takes about an hour and a half to walk the whole length.
The Nature Trail in the Nature Reserve It is not just a simple walk, but with the essential guidance of a guide, it becomes an opportunity to discover the animals and plant species typical of the area.
