ITS25 CC – Visit of the Natural site “Oasi de Vendicari”

The nature reserve presents a mosaic typical of Mediterranean lagoons. At the entrance to the reserve, explanations were given on the natural riches of the reserve. The lagoons are an important stopover for birds migrating between Africa and northern Europe. The students were able to observe bird species such as flamingos, shelducks or black-stilts.The Vendicari Reserve is a protected area located in Sicily, precisely between the provinces of Syracuse and Ragusa. It is one of the most beautiful and biodiverse regions in the area. It is famous for its natural landscape, which includespristine beaches, marshes, ponds, and a wide variety of plants and animals. It is very important for wildlife, especiallymigratory birds. During autumn and spring, many bird species fly from one part of Europe to another and stop at Vendicari to rest and feed. Among these species are the pink flamingo and the little egret.

The beach is also a nesting place for sea turtles. The reserve also has historical and cultural significance. Inside, thereare the remains of an ancient tuna fishery, which is a type of establishment for catching tuna. These remains tell the story of the fishing tradition that has characterized Sicily for centuries. There is also a tuna trap in the reserve, also called Bafutu, that is, from Capo Bojuto in ancient times, was a tuna trap that caught tuna and mackerel that returned offshore after the mating season.
Duriong the long walk, we discovered that the area is also rich in unique plants, such as coastal dunes and brackishmarshes, which provide an ideal habitat for many species of plants and flowers. This diverse ecosystem is protected due to its fragility and importance.

After having some explanations, the pupils visit the museum.

The students were made aware of the protection of nature, a threatened environment and the importance of wetlands in the Mediterranean zone. They discovered the ancestral practices of tuna fishing since the arrival of the Arabs in Sicily and their importance in the local economy. They obtained knowledge about the ancient origins of the place (Greek colony). The students were particularly receptive and presented quality work during a restitution in group. Protecting the environment means ensuring the survival of the animal and plant species that live there, as well as maintaining an intact natural beauty for the future generation.