LIPU Centre
Centro Recupero Uccelli Marini e Acquatici (LI)
Tel. 0586 400226
Location
The LIPU Marine and Waterbird Rehabilitation Centre at Livorno is based in unused primary school premises, belonging to the Commune of Livorno, and situated on the eastern side of the city. It has been fitted out with aviaries and treatment areas for marine and fresh water species of birds.HOW TO GET THERE
From the city of Livorno follow signs for Collesalveti on the N 206 to Cisternino. The Centre is on the right, just after the village sign for Cisternino.
Foundation
CRUMA was established in 1987, on the pattern of the already well-known Centre at Sala Baganza, and is the only place in Italy which specialises in receiving, treating and releasing marine and other water species. Gulls and cormorants, shearwaters and herons, ducks and waders, swans and geese are all seriously affected by illegal shooting and various kinds of pollution, especially oil spillage.FACILITIES AND ORGANISATION
The Centre receives about 700 birds a year, mostly gulls and herons. Of them 65% have gunshot wounds, 20% have been affected by oil, and the remainder have been injured by impact with cars or overhead power lines. The Centre is organised as a real hospital. The birds are immediately examined by a veterinary surgeon, who decides what treatment is necessary. They are then kept in isolation under close observation before being moved to aviaries, and when strong enough to be returned to the wild they are released, at public events for common species or at closely guarded places for rare species. The Centre has three external aviaries, treatment boxes and an enclosure for incurable birds, as well as offices, laboratories and a classroom. Two new large aviaries are currently being built.
Facilities for Visitors
As well as a Visitor Centre there is a large car park with space for 80 cars, and it will also take minibuses and camper vans.Visits
The Centre is open all year round for the reception of injured and sick birds (09.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 18.00). Guided visits for groups and school parties are available from Monday to Friday but must be booked in advance, telephone 0586/ 400226. The Centre is partly accessible for disabled persons, who can visit the aviaries.