LIPU-UK -> Working in Britain for Birds in Italy - Lacchiarella reserve

	LIPU Reserve: 35. Lacchiarella (MI) Tel. 0290 030 86565
	Habitat Lacchiarella LIPU Reserve is in the Commune of Lacchiarella, near Milan. It is within the boundaries of the Sud Milano Regional Park, which is largely agricultural in character with alternating areas of meadows, cereals and poplars. Lacchiarella Reserve is, in fact, a small area of natural landscape which has survived land reclamation schemes and the growth of intensive agriculture on the Lombardy Plain. It is one of the richest areas for wildlife in the Milan region. There are diverse habitats within the Reserve, including copses, shrubs, uncultivated parts, reedbeds, springs and a small stretch of water. The woods and copses contain species of willow and poplar, as well as fine stands of alder and hornbeam, and some which are very useful for animals, such as hazel and sorb. The former provides food for dormice and other small rodents, and the latter has plenty of berries in autumn, when it attracts Blackbirds, Thrushes and Blackcaps. Of further interest are wild apple, figs and limes.

	Birds Bird life is without doubt the main attraction of Lacchiarella Reserve. There are many species which rely on the watery habitats. There is a small colony of Night Herons and Squacco Herons and they can be observed regularly in spring and summer, flying to and fro, searching the surrounding countryside for food for themselves and for their chicks. Marsh Harriers build their nests in the reedbeds. Lacchiarella Reserve is one of the few places in Lombardy where this majestic raptor breeds, and is the only one near Milan. It can be observed all year round as it quarters the reedbeds and water in search of prey. Two species of water birds which are quite easy to see are Moorhens and Mallards. The first is small and dark, similar to a small duck (it is really a species of rail), but the second is a true duck, multicoloured like the strikingly beautiful Kingfisher, a small blue arrow which can be seen flashing along the water courses and above the small lake. The reserve supports many other breeding species; just to name a few, there are Cuckoos, summer visitors you are bound to see, Golden Orioles, Skylarks, Nightingales, Great Tits and Long-tailed Tits. Several species come to the reserve during migration; particularly noteworthy are Snipe, which use their long, fine bills to probe for worms and other morsels. .

	Other wildlife Although birds are easily observed at any season of the year, there are other creatures which can also be found, with somewhat more difficulty, at LIPU Lacchiarella Reserve. Mammals include hedgehogs and small, elusive weasels, and the smallest mammals include various species of bats and shrews. There are also many species of reptiles and amphibians. The wildlife here is rich and varied, a gem set within the Lombardy countryside.

	The Reserve is to be equipped with new facilities, thanks to financial assistance and collaboration from the Commune of Lacchiarella. There will be a visitor centre with projection room, an outdoor teaching area for schools, nature walks lined with panels and notices describing the animals and plants, information and promotional leaflets, and guides and volunteers to accompany school groups and other visitors.

	Visits This will be notified when available.