LIPU Centre:
27.Centro Cicogne Racconigi (CN)
Tel.
Location
The Centre is at Racconigi, between Torino and Cuneo, near the Castello Reale, the magnificent historical residence of the Savoy dynasty. From the autostrada A6 (Torino-Savona), exit at Carmagnola and take the n. 393 towards Carmagnola. After about 10 kilometres you reach Racconigi where there are signs to the Centre.Aims
The main objective is to be able to report that the White Stork is once again breeding in the wild in Italy. For the past 200 years this migratory species has not bred here, as a result of shooting and environmental changes. The last breeding attempts were reported from this very area: for this reason it was decided to begin the reintroduction project here. As well as being involved in reintroduction, the Centre also works to attract migrating wild storks to breed in the surrounding area. Storks are looked on very favourably in people's imagination and this gives the Centre and its activities added strength in education and environmental awareness.Facilities
The LIPU Stork Centre at Racconigi is within a huge reconstructed farmstead. There are several aviaries, a nursery for newly hatched birds, as well as an area of small ponds with many species of ducks. There is a visitor centre, a nature walk and hides from where White-headed Ducks and other migrating birds can be observed.Visits
The Centre is open to visitors every day of the year from 10 am to 6 pm. Both individuals and groups are advised to telephone in advance: Tel. 0172 83457. The centre is accessible to disabled persons. It is sometimes closed in winter during bad weather.
