LIPU Reserve:
14. Sassoguidano (MO)
Tel.
Habitat
Established in 1995 by the Region of Emilia Romana, the nature reserve at Sassoguidano covers an area of some 272 hectares in the commune of Pavullo, Province of Modena. The principle aims of the reserve are the conservation of biodiversity and the natural heritage, the restoration and evaluation of historic and artistic assets, the promotion of environmental education, scientific research and good use of the land, and the development of human activities with low environmental impact. Within the reserve there are many examples of high quality environment and landscape, such as the impressive cliffs at Malvarone, the ridge at Sassaguidano, good forest cover, areas of arable and pasture land, the River Lerna and a small but very interesting wetland at the Sassomassiccio pool, all important habitats for rare animal and plant species. The management of the reserve is the responsibility of the Commune of Pavullo, who benefit from collaboration with LIPU.Birds
Birds are the most numerous and easily observed of the vertebrate species. The most commonly seen raptors are Common Buzzards (Buteo buteo), often seen circling above the church of Sassoguidano, and Kestrels (Falco tinnunculus), which feed on small mammals and large insects. Very similar to the Common Buzzard is the Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus), which only visits the reserve in spring and summer, being a migrating raptor which spends the summer in Europe and winter in Africa. Another migrant is the Hobby (Falco subbuteo), extremely skillful at catching insects and small birds in flight. Present in the wooded areas, but not easily seen, is the Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus), a specialist in catching small birds. During the migration period there may also be Montagu's Harriers (Circus pygarcus) and Hen Harriers (Circus cyaneus). In autumn and winter one may be fortunate to catch sight of a Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), a large raptor whose wingspan may reach over two metres, powerful Goshawks (Accipiter gentilis), as well as Jays and Crows. Peregrine Falcons (Falcus peregrinus) are found around the rocky crags at Malvarone, and Lanner Falcons ( Falco biarmicus) are irregular visitors to the reserve. There are several species of nocturnal raptors, Barn Owls (Tyto alba), Tawny Owls (Strix aluco), and also the Little Owl ( Athene noctua), a nocturnal raptor which is more easily observed in spring when it also hunts small mammals and insects during daylight hours. There is also the small Scops Owl (Asio scops) and Long-eared Owl (Asio otus).Other wildlife
The diversity of habitats within the Sassoguidano reserve, crags, mixed woodland, meadows and streams, has encouraged the development of a rich and varied wildlife. In fact many animal species find optimum conditions here and from studies undertaken by LIPU volunteers a total of 136 species have been observed within its boundaries, a valuable heritage of biodiversity which must be protected.Visits
The reserve is freely open to visitors. It can be reached by minor roads from Modena by taking the SS12 Nuova Estense as far as Pavullo. From Pavullo town centre take the SP 27 in the direction of Verica as far as the fork for Sassoguidano.