Description

This protected area covers an area of 327 hectares, 67 of which on tidal flats. There are extensive stretches of shallow water and the final part of the Averto canal, characterised by deep water, while the land is marked by typical vegetation of tidal flats, by small woods of poplar, willow and locust trees and reed beds near the artesian wells. Since 1999, measures have been taken to encourage nesting waterfowl. In particular, the small islands in the fish farm basins now house a large colony of terns that serve as an attraction to other species such as redshanks, black-headed gulls and black-winged stilts. The islets have cords stretched far enough apart to prevent invasive yellow-legged gulls from landing there, but not terns, and together with the “moulds” in the form of brooding terns they encouraged the establishment of the first pairs. There is a visitor centre accessible by car or bicycle from which several paths lead to various observation points. The centre organise environmental education activities and tours both here and at Casa Spina on the coastal side of the reserve. From Casa Spina, some paths lead to the “fish ponds” and the beach. The Reserve is linked to Grado by a bicycle trail that continues on the sea embankment towards the Caneo-mouth of the Isonzo while a continuation of the trail to Monfalcone is being planned.