Natural Reserve “Oasis Simeto”

The Oasis Simeto was declared natural reserve in 1984 in order to protect natural environments once extensive in Sicily and today compromised by human activity.

In the past, it was built a network of channels and interventions of reforestation with non-native plant species have been done. The current activities are intended to recover the original environment.

The naturalistic interest of the reserve is the presence of river and marsh environments and coastal dunes. Several ponds of brackish water are present to the north and to the south of the reserve; the banks of the largest pond, lake Gornaluga, are characterized by a “salicornieto”, a resting place for many birds.

Each ambient is characterized by different flora and fauna. Native species and migratory birds found in this oasis a place of refuge and nesting. In winter the bird watchers can always see the Marsh Harrier.
In addition to birdlife, the area is also known for the presence of small mammals, such as wild rabbits, small rodents, reptiles and amphibians.

Weasels, foxes, Sicilian lizards and marsh turtles live in harmony in this place full of charm and vegetation.