A group of 24 members from Birdlife Malta enjoyed a four-day trip to the nature reserve and surrounding area of the Nebrodi Mountains to explore Sicily’s diverse wildlife.

The group visited the Alcantara Gorge, located on the north slopes of Mount Etna where the riverbed has been affected by the invasion of impressive lava flows.

Members also visited the two adjoining small lakes and the main river stream, followed by a stop at the village of Motta Camastra half way up Monte Mongivacche.

The group went on an 18km trek at the Nebrodi National Park, led by Italian conservationist and winner of the prestigious Goldman Prize, Dr Anna Giordano. Dr Giordano, who is also leader of World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) in Sicily and a director of the Trapani Salt Pans Reserve, led the group to the manmade Lake Maulazzo and onto the natural mountain lake of Biviere di Cesaro, lying just under the highest peak of the Nebrodi mountain area of Mounte Soro at 1,847 metres.

Her expertise in the environmental field, particularly for the protection of wild birds, was greatly appreciated by the members. During the trek various indigenous trees and plants were observed and various birds were spotted including Griffon Vultures, Booted Eagles and Buzzards.

On the third day members enjoyed sightings of a few Griffon Vultures at the popular Alcara li Fusi on the slopes of Monte del Crasto, where this species is known to breed, as well as a visit to the popular town of Cefalù on the northern Sicilian coast.

Participants also trekked the valley of Monte Spagnolo at the foot of Mount Etna, surrounded by various native trees forming the vast wooded area, and explored the town of Taormina.

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