INNATE 2019 BROCHURE by SKUA Nature Group

2018-2019

SKUA Nature INTERNATIONAL NATURE ESTATES NETWORK

16000 Hectares of Exclusive Estates 740 Birds to Observe 320 Species to Photograph

2008/2018

10 Years

A new way to enjoy nature

OUR VISION A famous slogan conceived by the world most important conservation company says: “Conservation without money is only conversation”.To me, this is an invitation to face, without any reference points guiding me, this challenge. What I want to achieve is to give an economic value to nature and to make common people aware that a flowering meadow full of butterflies and orchids is worth more than a parking lot or than an industrial warehouse. When Skua was launched in 2008 I would have never thought to create, in a matter of a few years, a really unique project. We haven’t discovered anything new actually; there are dozens of reserve networks run by institutions or associations, but so far no one had really created a common denominator which could link even extremely different areas, which differ in terms of management and strategic targets. Landowners, conservation associations, public institutions, large protected areas and local companies, all working together for the creation of a new concept of nature tourism. The road we’ve made so far and the road ahead, is all but easy; different visions and priorities, different countries with varied cultures and habits, are only a few of the challenges we have to face on a daily basis, in order to keep the control of the project and guarantee that every area is run and developed with the same technical and quality standards. But the results obtained in only three years suggest us that we have found the right key. The network we present here is the first step of global scale project, whose aim is to prove that with the right technical skills, business vision, knowledge, passion and a special team, it is possible to create or restore natural areas for nature tourism, able to sustain themselves, to produce positive economic impact in the local territories and to support conservation actions. All of this without of course cause even a minimal disturbance to habitats and species... A utopia? Come visit one or more of our reserves and you will find yourself immersed in an extremely real world, tailor made for you, where to relax and indulge in your passion. Each new client is for us a precious detail in order to prove that the natural richness, if well managed, can become a resource and be preserved for the future.

F. Filippini

Massimiliano Biasioli SKUA Nature Group Managing Director

Years of SKUA Nature Group

The pictures I have selected as background for these two pages could be named â&#x20AC;&#x153;The jumpâ&#x20AC;?. I remember as if it was yesterday that magic moment at dawn when, in Zamora province in Spain, a small fox approached a small creek disregarding our presence and suddenly took a leap trying to reach a stone not to get wet too much. It made it! And it gave us the chance to take an amazing picture. I have chosen this picture because I think it represents our vision and current reality, ten years after Skua Nature foundation. This year SKUA Nature made the leap and the project created and buildt in Italy and spread in Europe is landing in other continents. First in Central America, then in India and In Africa and Far East in the next months. It is a big responsability but also a rare chance to export what we have tested in Europe into extremely different territories and cultures for the purpose of demonstrate that, through well organized and managed nature tourism activities, it is possible to create solid companies and, above all, to preserve lands and biodiversities that would otherwise be got lost. Our aim is not to implant a model. We want to create examples that can be replicated by more and more people.

M. R. Romero

As the fox did, we have calculated every single step in crossing over the creek, treacherous and complicated.This results in an enlargement of the team, in the comparison with different cultures, traditions and ways of life, with technical, operational and fiscal subjects we were not used to. However, I am sure that, as done so far, thanks to our perseverance and professionalism, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to achieve the targets we have fixed approaching to the far bank stone after stone.

In June 2008, together with Matteo Gagliardone, I decided to take over active nature training, that is something that has always been insufficient in our country’s Universities. This is how “Università di Campo” was born, with the aim to gather the best lecturers of the country for high level traning courses. At the same time, to better manage all the activities that implied travels outside Italy, we decided to name it SKUA - Travels Training & Research. It was a success, so we started to organize classes on several naturalistic subjects and related travels to apply the theory learned.The expeditions we have organized in Egypt, on Sinai peninsula, to learn how to recognize birds of prey, were simply amazing and gave us the chance to practice in terms of management, logistics, marketing, travels organization. In 2010 Sara Genovese entered the company as marketing and communication manager and the name changed into SKUA Nature Group. We were just 3 partners but we have been supported by wonderful people who helped us to grow: Nicola Scatassi, Cristiana Bardini, Francesca Morganti, Sara Sanetti and Marta De Biaggi, among the others. At the moment tens of people have approached SKUA for short or long periods and have contributed to make SKUA what is now. The starting has been very difficult and we have lost a lot of time due to the lack of time and economi resources. We fell down and rised up several times but every experience made us stronger and more capable in terms of management. In 2012 we have been asked to manage Ultima Frontiera, whch changed our life making us become what we are now.Thanks to new entries like Merce Romero, Paolo Fumagalli, Paola Traspedini,Teresa Rocchi and Marino Premoli, together with hide keepers, reserves coordinators and SKUA photographers, we have created a tightknit group, ready to face future with resourcefullness and determination worldwide.

THE NETWORK SKUA Nature gathers a wide global network of collaborations and projects related to nature tourism in 42 countries and 5 continents. Not only esclusive reserves but several birdwatching and nature photography proposals. We collaborates with local public and private companies and ONG which are devoted to territorial development.

LATVIA

ROMANIA ITALY SPAIN PORTUGAL

Countries where we work directly Countries with active projects and partnerns Countries where we organize Nature Tours with Ornitholidays

BULGARIA

SKUA Nature Group has created and manages the first project of Nature Reserves entirely developed for and dedicated to Nature Tourism and Nature Photography. A new kind of offer, different from a simple itinerary in a destination or a photographic session in a hide, it’s a world entirely conceived and organised for nature lovers. Our team also works in different countries in the creation of nature itineraries for territorial enhancement, independently or in collaboration with local agencies and authorities, to provide great birding and photographic expeditions in remote and evocative places with the support of the most experienced group in Europe in this field. From North to South, from East to West, the Network aims to include the best and exclusive nature areas of all Europe and more, to gather them and strengthen their preservation. A large Network, made to photograph and observe all the target species of the different countries and to have the opportunity to develop useful and concrete conservation and research actions to preserve these beautiful but fragile areas. ROMANIA ULTIMA FRONTIERA Dobrogea - Danube Delta

p. 18

ITALY

New Delhi

INDIA

CASCINA SPINOLA Piedmont - Vercelli’s Province

p. 44

PO RIVER & RICEFIELDS Piedmont - Vercelli’s Province

p. 54

VALLI DI ARGENTA Emilia Romagna - Po Delta area

p. 64

LA MANDRIA p. 70 Piedmont - Torino Province

Raipur

SPAIN FINCA LA PARRILLA Extremadura - Monfrague N.P.

p. 74

LAS VINAS p. 88 Extremadura - Caceres Province

PORTUGAL MONTE BARATA p. 96 Portugal - Castelo Branco

GUATEMALA

Flores

BELIZE

RESERVA BIOLOGICA LAS GUACAMAYAS Tiger Lagoon N.P. - Flores - Peten

p. 102

FINCA LOS ANDES Atitlan Volcano

p. 112

THE GREEN CARRIBEAN Carribean Coast

p. 118

INDIA

GUATEMALA

Puerto Barrios

HONDURAS Guatemala City

THE BAGH BHARATPUR Keoladeo N.P. - Rajasthan

p. 124

THE BAGH KANHA Kanha N.P. - Madhya Pradesh

p. 132

LATVIA Wild Latvia coming soon Latvia - Latgale Region

16000 Hectares where we work every day 14 Nature Reserves 90 PhotoHides

M. Biasioli

... So far

MORE THAN ... 200 30000

An incredible number of species to photograph in comfortable new generation hides. In every reserve, thanks to expert guides, you can find information and advices to take amazing pictures of target species, as well as to photograph less required but still very interesting and particular species. Depending on the season, you can plan your experience and enjoy close encounters with your favourite species.

740

Bird species to observe

All our reserves are real nature paradises where every visitor is attended and supported with professionalism and courtesy. Even if nature photography is a very important feature in our work, in all our areas we do also organize high level birdwatching and wildwatching tours. Our reserves offer the opportunity to easily observe rare species or species that are otherwise difficult to find.

M. Biasioli M. Biasioli

Species to photograph

M. Premoli

320

Merce R. Romero

People reached each year

S. Stignani

Photographers using our hides each month

HIDE RESERVATION Monday-Friday 9am-1pm and 3pm-8 pm

OPENING TIME Monday-Friday 9am-1pm and 3pm-8 pm

CONTACTS 0141/918403 info@skuanature.com

C. Pedriali

M. Biasioli

A. Piglia M. Premoli

ADDRES Via Valle 4 15020 - Castelletto Merli (AL)

P. Traspedini

SKUA headquarters office is now open to the public! Located in Monferrato, among vineyards and woods of maples, hawthorns and oaks, it is an ancient house restored according to Piedmont typical architecture.The surrounding fruit trees and endemic shrubs and trees species garden hosts birds of prey, woodpeckers and passerines, which can be spotted and photographed from the new dedicated hide. A drinking water pool is just in front of the hide, allowing to take pictures of the bathing birds at a very close distance. Among the others, Sparrowhawk, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Cirl Bunting, White Wagtail, Common Redstart. Soon, a new hide will be dedicated to Common Buzzards and Kestrels, which usually fly over the valley where the garden is. Our staff will be more than happy to welcome you and to provide you with all the informations related to Innate Network reserves.

M. Premoli

VISIT US

M. Premoli

P. Baloire

Green Woodpecker, Sparrowhawk and many more typical Monferrato species

SAVE YOUR MONEY

SKUA Nature takes care of you and rewards your loyalty!

Istokphoto

You can enjoy huge savings on your photo tours and sessions until the end of 2019 by subscribing to SKUA Card Hides or SKUA Card Travels. You will have the chance to go through the entire SKUA Nature world (exclusive reserves, dedicated photo hides, workshops, birdwatching and photo tours, shortbreaks) with huge discounts on each one of these activities. Don’t miss our biggest ever promotion, get rewarded!

SKUA Card - TRAVELS

- 100€ discount on every SKUA Nature weekly tour (Ornitholidays and INNATE Network)

- 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides - Automatic free subscription to SKUA Card - Hides - SKUA gadjet Cost: 120€

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 10% discount on every photo session in our hides - 50€ discount on every SKUA Nature weekly tour (Ornitholidays and INNATE Network)

- 5% discount on shorter tours - 40€ discount on the subscription to SKUA Card –Travels SKUA gadjets Cost: 50€

OUR NATURE RESERVES

Boat Hide Excursion

Floating Hide

Electric Buggy Trail

Our Reserves are exclusive and unique places rich in wildlife, developed to offer all what a nature lover looks for and to make him/her enjoying a special experience in yet lesser known biodiversity hot-spots. The Network includes reserves in several countries and that helps you to observe or photograph the main target species of the area where these are located. The freedom that such places offer allows people to explore wild lands on their own with relaxing walkings or by electric cars, or accompanied by our expert guides searching for not only birds and mammals but also butterflies, dragonflies, amphibians, reptiles, plants, etc. In addition to top birding and wildlife experiences, a special feature of our reserves is the new concept of hide photography: not only a mere daily use of a hide, but an entire world developed for photographers, where to find vehicles ad hoc modified (as boat hides or buggy hides), expeditions outside the reserve to enrich even more the portfolio and observations of species and go deeply into the atmosphere of the location; accommodation inside the reserve, to share with a limited number of people and only with people that share the same passion, and specially trained guides to make the experience memorable... And of course an high number of photographic hides to meet every photographerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s requirement (from towers to partially buied hides, from floating hides to the ones at the level of the tree canopy, and much more...) 12

Lagoon Birdwatching Observatory

4x4 Excursion

Wild Cat Hide

Walking Trail

Dragonflies Platform Observatory

Conservation Action Rollersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Nestbox

Lodge

F. Rovedo

G. Bissattini

F. Rovedo

Merce R. Romero M. Ferrari

Restaurant

M. Andreini M. Piacentino Merce R. Romero

In order to make a distinction and gather the reserves that present similarities, we have divided them into 3 macro-groups to differentiate usability, logistics and organization. However, each reserve has its own features that pratically lead to the fact that every project is different from the others and unique; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s job to develop these areas in a way that guarantees and provides the same high qualitative and ethical standards, be it for hides or nature guiding or accommodation services. The 3 macro-groups show the main features of each kind of reserve; from the most exclusive one to the local little jewels passing through projects that help not only nature but also the development of a local economy.The Reserves Network represents a new and secret world to discover and new photographic opportunities not to be missed!

3 WAYS TO EXPLORE

M. Biasioli

NATURE IN TOTAL FREEDOM

ULTIMATE RESERVES Public or private large reserves (more than 500 hectares) where it’s possible to stay in exclusive lodges or hotels in the middle of nature, entirely organized for nature photography and nature tourism. Main features: • • • • •

Accommodation inside the estate open only to nature tourism groups Total freedom to move inside the reserve and choose among a high number of different photographic hides, all included in the experience Minimum number of 15 new generation photographic hides for several target species A number of facilities and paths inside the reserve and excursions in the surrounding areas to get the best of a full 8-days expedition. International clientele

WIDESPREAD RESERVES Reserves that are widespread in a vast territory with the collaboration of different public or private entities or companies.These areas can include and gather single hides as well as small nature reserves or private areas. Main features: • • • •

Overnight stay close to the reserve in affiliated accommodation Minimum number of 5 new generation photographic hides Open to international groups or individuals for long week-ends or daily visits This kind of reserve is the one that is most indicated for the development of a local economy as it involves agreements with local professionals, authorities and accommodation facilities

LOCAL RESERVES Small reserves, sometimes included inside public or private areas, that reach a mainly local fruition, even if they can also be included in itineraries of photographic and nature expeditions. Main features: • • • •

Minimum number of 3 new generation photographic hides Open to individuals or small groups for daily visits or 2-days visits Some of these reserves have affiliated accommodation in nearby town or in the surroundings Mainly for a local clientele but a good opportunity also for tourists and international photographers visiting the area.

R. Lucietti

M. Steenhaut

R. Cebrian Alonso

G. Bissattini

Our will to improve constantly helped us to actualize unique and innovative experiences in Nature photography field. For instance, we have created nocturnal hides to watch and photograph sp cies like Wild Cat, Badger, Barn Owl, Little Owl, Genet and Beach Marten without using barriers or remote control. In these hides, you can sit down enjoying the landscape view outside and ph tographing the animals without any additional instruments, thanks to the lighting system we have created. These are the first hides in the world where it is not a detector photographing animals, but YOU.

R. Lucietti

G. Bissattini

NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

AVAILABLE NOCTURNAL HIDE IN OUR RESERVES ULTIMA FRONTIERA - Romania Wild Cat, Badger, Little Owl, Barn Owl, Racoon Dog LA PARRILLA - Spain Genet, Beech Marten CASCINA SPINOLA - Italy Little Owl LA MANDRIA - Italy Badger, Fox

COMING SOON IN 2018/2019 THE BAGH BHARATPUR - India Cat, Jungle Cat, Civets, Indian Crested Porcupine THE BAGH KANHA - India Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, Civets MONTE BARATTA - Portugal Genet, Beech Marten

A. Maestri

LAS GUACAMAYAS - Guatemala Ocelot,Tayra

Merce R. Romero

Ultima Frontiera

Location

Periprava - Tulcea Dobrogea - Romania

Opening period

From April to October Special opening in February

Contacts

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Features

30 Photo Hides 1000 Hectars

Closest Airports

Bucarest (4 h.) to Tulcea Constanta (1,5 h.) to Tulcea

Suggested Accommodation

In the Reserve there is a four stars lodge with 16 rooms

Ultima Frontiera

ROMANIA Tulcea

Bucarest

Constanta

Reaching Ultima Frontiera is an adventure on its own; situated at more than 80 kilometres from the city of Tulcea and not connected by any road, you can only reach it by boat along the Danube river. An exciting trip that will enable you to enter one of the greatest wetland in Europe, and to discover its flooded woods, small picturesque villages and an astonishing amount of birds. An experience which, differently from the usual cruise tours, we describe as unique because it allows you to explore huge areas both in small boats and in comfortable 4x4 vehicles. The strategic location of the property means that you are able to visit remote and untouched areas such as the Letea Forest with its old oak trees and its large expanse of dunes, the salty steppes and flooded meadows, the huge system of lakes and ponds virtually untouched, and the Musura lagoon towards the Black Sea. This is a place where not only you can relax in perfect tranquillity, but where every visitor can explore on his own a vast area using small electric vehicles available at the lodge. Dedicated areas for birdwatching and dragonflywatching, professional photographic hides of the latest generation, a large set of vehicles and photo and nature excursions in the best places of the Delta will make you go home with only one thought in mind... Coming back!

M. Biasioli

M. Andreini

M. Steenhaut

M. Biasioli

THE RESERVE

One thousand hectares of lakes, reedbeds, woodland and bushy areas surround a very high-quality lodge.

M. Biasioli

The lodge at Ultima Frontiera is a real technical challenge which allows you to enjoy your stay in one of the remotest areas in Europe with the very same level of comfort of your home. It has been built renovating an old twentieth century building, and it is situated in the heart of the property. A unique atmosphere with the comfort of a 4-stars hotel: large rooms with satellite tv and large en-suite bathrooms; a restaurant with outside terrace where you can have dinner enjoying wonderful sunsets; free wireless internet connection available everywhere inside the hotel;

The property around the hotel, during the communist regime, hosted a prison camp, subsequently turned into a fish farm; this troublesome past has given the area a peculiar aspect characterized by polygon shaped water bodies and basins, as well as by the presence of picturesque ruins and old buildings, now immersed in the natural vegetation and offering shelter to little owls, rollers and wildcats.This is one of the peculiar features of this place, the unequivocal predominance of nature, from the howling of the jackals at dinner time, to the frenetic activity of the hoopoes in the yard, from the nocturnal concert of the tree frogs, to the brawls among the grey headed woodpeckers on the thatched roof of the hotel: simply a unique place.

F. Rovedo

Merce R. romero

M. Biasioli

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

M. Biasioli

Only 12 visitors at a time are allowed to stay inside the estate, and therefore the network of over 30 kilometres of trails are at their exclusive disposal, to be explored on foot or on board the silent electric cars.These small vehicles are very good for approaching wild animals, and can be used as mobile hides for shooting great images. And thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no need to worry about getting lost, as knowledgeable local guides will help you memorize easy landmarks which, combined with the useful maps (one in every buggy) and the signage, will make the discovery on your own being a unique and relaxing experience.

M. Steenhaut

T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo

L. Boscain

B. Gil

L. Boscain

BIRDS

230 bird species have been recorded so far inside the property: from Smews, Rough-legged Buzzards and Great Grey Shrikes in winter, to Red-breasted Geese, White-winged Terns and Red-breasted Flycatchers during migration, to 90 breeding species like Red-footed Falcon, Thrush Nightingale and Paddyfield Warbler, an exceptional heritage of ornithological diversity for such a small area. Furthermore, there are colonial breeding species you can observe during excursions in the surrounding areas: Black-necked and Red-breasted Grebes and Black and Whiskered Terns in the Merhei and Matita lakes, Collared Pratincoles and Avocets in salty steppes, Great Black-headed Gulls and Sandwich Terns along the Black Sea shores.Thanks to its geographical position, Ultima Frontiera, not far from the sea and inside the Danube delta, offers to birders an incredible list of potential vagrants and rarities, among which in these last years there are Lesser White-fronted Goose, Great Spotted Eagle, Demoiselle Crane,Terek Sandpiper, Citrine Wagtail, Siberian Stonechat, Little Bunting and so on. Among the easiest species to find, especially in early spring and late summer, there are the four woodpeckers breeding species: Black, Grey-headed, Lesser Spotted and Great Spotted, with the bonus of Syrian Woodpecker, more common in the villages of Periprava, Letea and Sulina (and only rarely inside the property). The immense reedbeds expanses support many interesting species, from Bittern, Little Bittern and Little Crake to various passerines perfectly adapted to this environment, from the light brown coloured Saviâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Sedge, Moustached and Paddyfield Warbler, all breeding in Ultima Frontiera, to the more vividly coloured, and searched for by photographers, Bearded Reedlings, a common breeder even more numerous during migrations.

A. Maestri

CONSERVATION PROJECTS Thanks to the funds raised with nature tourism, we develop and manage active conservation projects every year. Find more at page 128 & 130

M. Premoli

M. Biasioli

F. Rovedo

Pinoc-

M. Biasioli

ULTIMA FRONT-IERA

T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo L. Zuntini

G. Bissattini

230 bird species have been recorded so far inside the property

M. Biasioli

MAMMALS

M. Biasioli

The island between the Danube branches of Chilia and Sulina hosts a population of wild horses, whose ancestors were brought here by the Tartars over 400 hundred years ago, and subsequently became wild. Nowadays a few thousands stallions and dams roam freely here, with their bay or black mantle, among sand dunes and meadows. They have no natural predators here, and therefore, in order to minimize the risks of overgrazing, it has been necessary to control their number and sterilise many of them, but still these beautiful animals are among the most longed for subjects by photographers, especially when they gallop freely in the steppe.

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

M. R. Romero

F. Rovedo

C. Galliani

M. Biasioli

The remoteness of the property is one of the reasons why mammals live undisturbed here, and not rarely move also by day. Not only Jackals, but also Otters and Wildcats can be observed in broad daylight, both from buggies or from the hides. Dedicated night excursions offer the chance to spot the most reserved inhabitants of the property, like Racoon Dog, Badger, Beech Marten and Wild Boar. Some interesting smaller mammals are present, such as Northern White-breasted Hedgehog, Forest Dormouse and the tiny Harvest Mouse. The nearby Letea forest, where in the last century used to roam the last romanian Mooses, is a real hotspot for bats, with more than 20 species recorded, beside having good populations of Roe Deers, Jackals and Pine Martens.

L. Boscain

D. Giuliani

The concert of the amphibians is the soundtrack of the nights in Ultima Frontiera: thousands of Marsh Frogs, Fire-bellied Toads and Oriental Tree Frogs seemingly never lose their will to challenge one another in loud races. More discreet are Common Toad and Green Toad, pretty rare, and, moreover, the two newt species: Smooth and Danube Crested Newts. The cool summer nights hide the movements of the most searched for amphibian of the area, the Common Spadefoot: its underwater song is almost impossible to hear, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not rare to find solitary individuals exploring the hotel garden, while the big tadpoles are regularly eaten by Squacco Herons.

L. Boscain

AMPHIBIANS & REPTILES

C. Galliani

M. Biasioli

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

One of the most common preys of egrets, ibis and storks are snakes: the two more common species being Dice Snake and Grass Snake. The latter has often a peculiar colour pattern, with longitudinal stripes or melanic forms, with some individuals entirely black and without the typical collar. Regularly seen are also the native European Pond Turtles, with individuals crossing the trails or sunbathing in front of the hides. Much rarer are Smooth Snake and Sand Lizard, while two very interesting species have been recorded in the nearby Letea forest, Meadow Viper and Steppe-runner.

M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

L. Boscain M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

L. Boscain L. Boscain

L. Boscain

The property hosts damselflies and dragonflies belonging to over 30 different species: particularly rare and interesting are Dark Spreadwing, River Clubtail and Black Pennant, but more common ones are stunningly abundant, especially during the days when adults emerge and start flying. Less numerous are the butterflies, with around 35 species recorded so far, among which Large Copper,Yellow-legged Tortoishell and Large Chequered Skipper. Some large moths are present, like Giant Peacock Moth and French Red Underwing, as well as large beetles like Rhinoceros Beetle and Anoxia orientalis, while the praying mantis Empusa pennicornis is a real gem.

INSECTS & PLANTS

M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

M. Biasioli

The huge expanses of freshwaters in the delta, beside obvious species like Yellow and White water-lilies, also host a multitude of other interesting aquatic plants: from Floating fern, to the Arrowhead, to the extremely delicate yellow flowers of the Greater bladderwort, a carnivore plant. May is the best month in order to appreciate all the extraordinary bloomings of Marsh orchid which paint in fuchsia the wet meadows, as well as for visiting the Letea forest, a real flowering garden with 10 orchid species, the splendid Hungarian iris and interesting species like Silk vine.

M. Biasioli

M. Affini

F. Rovedo

PHOTO HIDES

M. Andreini

P. Dieudonne M. Biasioli

A wide range of photo hides of the latest generation give nature photographers a chance to test themselves with a multitude of different subjects, and perspectives being everytime in a new habitat and setting; form floating hides at water level, to drinking hides for woodpeckers and the dune-hide for white tailed eagles.Wide windows with very high-quality glasses and soundproof walls allow to observe the wildlife in an innovative way, reducing the disturbance to a minimum and ensuring the best naturalness in the animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC; behaviour. Additionally, there are excursions on off road vehicles, to explore the surrounding steppes and the Letea forest, a Biosphere Reserve, as well as boat rides on an innovative boat-hide for visiting the big lakes in the heart of the delta.

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

M. Andreini M. Biasioli

M. Andreini

A wide range of photo hides of the latest generation

M. Biasioli T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo M. Valentini

F. Rovedo

M. Biasioli L. Boscain T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo

M. Biasioli

M. Vigo E. Bosch M. Valentini

The photo opportunities you can find in Ultima Frontiera are endless: each hide is focused on some target species, but the area is so exceptional that surprises arrive on a daily basis. A wildcat may appear on the edge of a drinking spot, black or grey headed woodpeckers may choose to drum on the trees where white tailed eagles usually perch, or the whiskered face of an otter may emerge close to pigmy cormorants and Ferruginous ducks in front of a waterside hide. The large mirrored windows will allow not to loose any of these scenes, ensuring the chance of trying inventive flying shots of even the more wary raptor.

F. Rovedo

G. Bissattini

M. Biasioli

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

F. Rovedo

PHOTOGRAPHY

M. Steenhaut

D. Giuliani

M. Premoli D. Petrescu

Ultima Frontiera is the best site in Europe for observing and photographing the Golden Jackal. It’s an afro-asiatic species, reaching also eastern Europe, that is expanding towards western and northern Europe, having already reached Italy, Germany and Switzerland. Golden Jackals are regularly seen from our hides, and it’s not rare to see them interacting with White tailed Eagles: it’s not easy to predict who will win during such battles, and therefore everytime it’s a different situation, and witnessing these scenes leaves you open-mouthed. White tailed Eagles have their nests in the nearby Letea forest and regularly come inside the property for hunting, and they can be photgraphed all year round form our hides

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

T. D’Arcangelo T. D’Arcangelo

JACKALS & EAGLES

1 - DRINKING NORTH Species

Grey Headed Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Redstart, small birds

Best Period D. Giuliani

S. Giachello

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

2 - JACKALS NORTH Species

Golden Jackal, Marsh Harrier, Buzzards, White-tailed Eagle

Best Period A. Topi

S. Giachello

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

6 persons

3 - TAMARISKS EAST Species

Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Great Egret, Black Winged Stilt, Sandpipers

M. Steenhaut

S. Giachello

Best Period July-Aogust

Price --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

4 persons

4 - TAMARISKS WEST Species

Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Great Egret, Black Winged Stilt, Sandpipers

Best Period S. Giachello

S. Giachello

July-Aogust

Price --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

5 - PIGMY CORMORANT Species

Pigmy Cormorant, Squacco Heron, Purple Heron, Kingfisher

Best Period D. Giuliani

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

4 persons

Winter expeditions at Ultima Frontiera

Winter time, with its appeal, offers the chance to photograph emblematic species like Otter, Bittern, Dalmatian Pelican, Smew and, of course, Jackals and W.T. Eagle Coming up at February 2019 ... Contact Us!!

6 - BERENEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Species

Mute Swan, Ferrouginous Duck, Pigmy Cormorant, Little Crake, Kingfisher

Best Period Price

J. Zorrilla

M. Biasioli

All year round --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

4 persons

7 - MARSH TERNS Species

Common Tern, Wiskered Tern, Pigmy Cormorant, Great Cormorant July/September

Price

D. Giuliani

M. R. Romero

Best Period --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

8 - LAGOON Species

Mute Swam, White Pelican, Pigmy Cormorant, Great Cormorant, Ducks

Best Period Price

R. Lucietti

M. Biasioli

All year round --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

9 - LITTLE GREBE Species

Little Grebe, Great Egret, Purple Heron, Pigmy Cormorant

Price

P. Ravasi

M. Biasioli

June/September --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

10 - WOODLAND BIRDS Species

Redstart, Flycatchers, Black Woodpecker, Grey Headed Woodpecker

Best Period M. Premoli

S. Giachello

April/July

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

From mid April to Mid May Jackals show all their beauty.

If Golden Jackals are your target species, early spring is the best time to photograph them with their thick and shiny fur. . Coming up at April 2019 ... Contact Us!!

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

Best Period

11 - KINGFISHER Species

Kingfisher, Herons

Best Period S. Genovese

S. Giachello

April/July

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

12 - WILD CAT Species

Wild Cat, Golden Jackal

Best Period P. Serrano

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price --

Lens

150/200 mm

Seats

4 persons

13 - LITTLE OWL Species

Little Owl, Roller, Grey Headed Woodpecker All year round

M. Biasioli

M. R. Romero

Best Period Price --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

14 - BARN OWL Species

Barn Owl and sometimes Tawny Owl, Little Owl and Wild Cat

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price --

Lens

150/200 mm

Seats

2 persons

15 - BEE-EATERS Species

Bee-eater, Hoopoe

Best Period F. Rovedo

F. Rovedo

June-July

Price --

Lens

100/600 mm

Seats

4 persons

April offers daily fresh opportunities!

This is the best time to photograph Picchio nero but also to witness the migration of many species ma anche il periodo migliore as Red-footed Falcon, terns & passerines! Coming up at April 2019 ... Contact Us!!

16 - DRINKING HOTEL Species

Great Spotted Woodpecker, Grey-headed Woodpecker, little passerines

Best Period I. Maiorano

A. Maestri

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

3 persons

17 - PURPLE HERON Species

Purple Heron, Great Egret, Roller, Marsh Harrier, Garganey, sandpipers

Best Period M. Biasioli

A. Maestri

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

18 - W.T. EAGLE IN FLIGHT Species

White-tailed Eagle, Dalmatian Pelican

M. Steenhaut

M. Biasioli

Best Period

June/September

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

19 - REEDBEDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BIRDS Species

Bearded Tit, Little Crake, Little Bittern, reedbed passerines

M. Premoli

F. rovedo

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

20 - WHITE TAILED EAGLE Species

White-tailed Eagle, Golden Jackal, Marsh Harrier, Jackdaw, Rook

Best Period F. Rovedo

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

6 persons

The end of June is the time for new arrivals!

Chicks from many species like Great & Red-necked Grebe, Collared Pranticole, Terns, Kingfisher and more will be visible Coming up at July 2019 ... Contact Us!!

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

Best Period

21 - NURSERY Species

White-tailed Eagle, Golden Jackal, Marsh Harrier, Jackdaw, Herons

Best Period M. Premoli

S. Giachello

All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

22 - DRINKING SOUTH Species

Grey-headed Woodpecker, Hoopoe, small passerines

Best Period E. Traspedini

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price --

Roller,

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

23 - JACKALS SOUTH Species

Roller, Hoopoe, Bee-eater, Marsh Harrier, Golden Jackal

M. Steenhaut

M. Biasioli

Best Period All year round

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

T1 - ROLLER 1 Species

Roller, sometimes Little Owl

Best Period M. Premoli

S. Giachello

May/September

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

T2 - MARSH HARRIER Species

Marsh Harrier, reedbed passerines

Best Period F. Rovedo

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price --

Lens

500/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

Pratincoles are July target speciesâ&#x20AC;Śamong others!

Starting from July glassworth starts getting red and Pratincoles are clearly visible offering great photo opportunities Coming up at July 2019 ... Contact Us!!

T3 - ROLLER 2 Species

Roller, Kestrel, Hoopoe

Best Period Price

M. Premoli

S. Giachello

May/September --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

4 persons

T4 - ROLLER 3 Species

Roller, Kestrel, Little Owl

Best Period Price

M. Biasioli

S. Giachello

May/September --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

T5 - REEDBED Species

Savi’s Warbler, Reedbed Bunting, Sadge Warbler and others reedbed’s passerines

Best Period Price

L. Boscain

M. Biasioli

May/September --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

1 persons

F1 - LAGOON NORTH Species

White Pelican, Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Terns, Waders, Ducks

Price

F. Rovedo

M. Biasioli

All year round --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

F2 - KINGFISHER 2 Species Kingifischer

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

May/July

Price --

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

Try Ultima Frontiera “Residential Holidays”.

Imagine to be able to live Ultima Frontiera magic atmosphere for longer periods (2 weeks or even one entire month) at special prices! Coming up at April, August & September 2019 ... Contact Us!!

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

Best Period

F3 - LAGOON CENTRE Species

Dalmatian Pelican, Spoonbill, Waders, Ducks, Herons

Best Period Price

M. Biasioli

All year round 50 Euro

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

F4 - LAGOON SOUTH Species

Avocet, Black-winged Stilt, Shelduck, Herons, Waders

Best Period Price

M. Biasioli

All year round --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

2 persons

BOAT HIDE - LAKES EXCURSION Species

Pelicans, Black & Wiskered Tern, Rednecked & Great Grebe, Squacco Heron

Best Period Price

M. Biasioli

All year round --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

3 persons

4X4 HIDE - BLACK WOODPECKER Species Black Woodpecker

Best Period Price

G. M. Zaino

M. Biasioli

April-May --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

3 persons

BOAT EXCURSION - MUSURA Species

Pallasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gull, Capian Gull, Mediterranean Gull, Little, Capian & Sandwich Tern April/September

M. Biasioli

P. Deudoinnet

Best Period

Waders paradise is from mid August up to mid September!

Low perspectives and close encounters with species like Ruff, Spotted Redshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Broad-billed Sandpiper, and more! Coming up at August and September 2019 ... Contact Us!!

Price --

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

14 persons

4X4 ESCURSION - STEPPES Species

Collared Pranticole, Glossy Ibis, Redfooted Falcon, Waders, Herons & Ducks

Best Period

Lens

300/600 mm

Seats

Price

M. Biasioli

April/September --

9 persons

4X4 EXCURSION - NIGHT SAFARI Species

Tawny Owl, Nightjar, Long-eared Owl, Golden Jackal, Wild Boar, Wild Cat

Best Period

Lens

150/300 mm

Seats

Price

F. Rovedo

M. R. Romero

April/September --

9 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEKLY PACKAGE

With the SKUA Card you can take advantages in all our reserves and tours worldwide, as well as enjoy personalized services. You can apply to it very easily and you will receive it directly at home. Save your Money and enjoy your Passion!

Due to a not easy logistics (Ultima Frontiera is indeed a remote and wild location), our tour are scheduled for an 8 days experience that gives you the opportunity to enjoy at best your holiday. In an entire week you will take part to excursions to an area of boundless steppes and wetlands, a visit to old picturesque villages, a boat trip to the inner lakes of the Delta and another one to the Black Sea. And of course you can enjoy trips by electric cars to discover the 1000 hectares estate and use all the available hides (more than 30 at the moment!). Our tours are tailored differently depending if you are a birdwatcher or a wildlife photographer.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

F. Rovedo

OTHER INFO

C. Pedriali

And more!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Merce R. Romero

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 2 -6 Day 7

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

twin/double and single rooms, with private facilities.

Our ISUU Archive

By minibus & boat

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

Maximum of 7 clients per group; maximum of 2 groups per week.

Arrival within 13.00 am at Bucharest airport and Transfer to Ultima Frontiera Ultima Frontiera with excursions and photo hides sessions Day 7 Excursion to the Black Sea and transfer to NH Hotel in Bucharest for dinner.

INCLUDES accommodation, half board service, local transfers, use of the hides and the electric cars available, excursions, services of the english speaking local guides.

ULTIMA FRONTIERA

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

M. Premoli

Cascina Spinola

Location

Features

Opening period

Closest Airports

Livorno Ferraris - Vercelli NW Italy All year round

Contacts

Torino

Milano Bergamo

ITALY

Milano Malpensa (1,5 h.) Torino Caselle (1 h.)

Suggested Accommodation parcoil babi.com trattoriaorso.it

Bologna

Cascina Spinola

F. Rovedo

info@skuanature.com 0141-918403

30 Photo Hides 15 Hectars

F. Rovedo

The Lowlands of the Vercelli’s plains are an area extremely favourable for farming, and the rice fields in the last century have become an almost uninterrupted extension. An old but still very efficient canal system has been providing the necessary water supply, and the whole area has been nicknamed “the squared sea”: Until very few years ago, these rice fields have played a key role as stop over sites for migrating herons and especially waders, as well as being of great importance for amphibians and insects. But nowadays the situation is getting worse, mainly due to massive use of pesticides and a lesser use of water during springtime.This introduction is necessary to understand the importance of creating new wetlands and the need to restore habitats: traditional rice fields can’t no longer act as substitutes for natural wetlands.Therefore the role that Cascina Spinola is set to play is absolutely unique and extremely precious: more than a hundred hectares of cultivated farmland will be turned into a wet natural habitat, which will include open body of waters, reedbeds and wet meadows.

Even if the restoration project is not finished yet, the place is already frequentedby lots of species along the year and some rarities has alredy appeared, such as Red Phalarop, Little Stint and Marbled Duck;These first observations give us hope for the future of this area.This oasis represents also a very important support to all those migratory birds that have to deal with the difficult Alps crossing, being located in one of the most famous italian migratory way, just at the Alps entrance. Moreover,the place has already been chosen by lots of wintering Herons (Sacred Ibis, Great Egrets, Little Egrets and Grey Herons) In front of the several hides that overlook the wetlands,Black Winged Stilt, Ruffs, Spotted Redshank, Blacktailed Godwits, Sandpipers, Snipes, Jack Snipe, Spotted Crake, Water Rail, Lapwings and Cormorants c an be usually seen. You will also find Common tern, Black Tern, Wiskered Tern, in addition to the above mentioned Herons, also Squacco Heron, some individuals of Purple Heron, Bittern, Glossy Ibis, Spoonbill and Little Bittern c an be photographed. Among ducks, the colourful Shelduck, Garganey,Teals and Shoveler use to get together in the water bodies. Lots of passerines usually s pend time among the hedges and banks of Cascina Spinola, from the colourful Yellow Wagtails to the shy Bluethroat. The incredible biodiversity of this area includes also several raptors as Marsh Harrier, Common Buzzard, Hen harrier, Little Owl and Barn Owl, normally easy to see from different hides.

CONSERVATION PROJECTS Thanks to the funds raised with nature tourism, we develop and manage active conservation projects every year. Find more at page 126 & 130

M. Piacentino

M. Biasioli

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

BIRDS

R. Lucietti

M. Biasioli

C. M.Galliani Biasioli

M. Biasioli

R. Lucietti L. Zuntini M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

CASCINA SPINOLA

After just 4 months from the end of the restoration works, 58 couples of Black-Winged Stilts started nesting in the area.

C. Galliani

R. Lucietti

M. Piacentino

OTHER WILDLIFE

C. Galliani C. Galliani

C. Galliani

S. Stignani

The 12 hectares of wetlands represents an amazing ecotone among marsh vegetation and the one proper to rural italian countryside. Inside the area Typha Latifolia reeds and big bushes of Cornflowers can be found, as well as Amphibious Bistort and Chamomile, little groups oflilies a nd papavers. In springtime beautiful Iris pseudacorus can be s een along the water drains. Hedges includes several arboreal and shrub-like plants, from rosesto w illows and Alders.New lines of hedges have been planted and every year the botanical importance of the area increases. Cascina Spinola is not only an Oasis for birds but also a refuge for several kinds o f mammals as European Polecat, Western Hedgehog, Eastern Cottontail, foxes. Focusing on otherwildlife s pecies we can appreciate the view of several amphibious like edible frogs and different kindsof newts, reptiles as Grass Snake and Western Whip Snake and also a multitude of dragonflies as Ischnura elegans, Platycnemis pennipes, Orthetrum cancellatum e albistylum, Crocothemis erythraea, Aeshna cyanea, Aeshna mixta, Anax imperator, Sympetrum depressiusculum, Calopteryx splendens. Among butterflies the most common are Vanessa atalanta, Papilio machaon e Inachis.They fill the colours palette of this picture called “Cascina Spinola”.

M. Premoli

PHOTOGRAPHY

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

CASCINA SPINOLA

M. Apollo

C. Galliani

Thanks to 10 photo hides located in strategic places inside the estate, photographers can enjoy new daily p hoto possibilities and species allyear round. Each hide has been designed to be perfectly integrated with the surrounding nature and to offer the best opportunities in terms of perspectives (from the water level to higher view for birds in flight), light and backgrounds. High quality glasses help gettingpictures of some behaviours difficult to photograph in other conditions. Paths leading to the hides are easy to cover and sheltered not to bother animals.

M. Premoli

F. Rovedo

M. Premoli

C. Galliani

PHOTO HIDES

M. Premoli

HIDE 1 Species

Purple Heron, Squacco Heron, Little Bittern, Sandpipers & Waders

C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Seats

2 persons

HIDE 2 Species

Stints, Sandpipers, Black-tailed Godwit, Garganey, Black winged Stilt, Waders

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 3 Species

Great Egret, Shelduck, Common Tern, Shoveler, Great Cormorant

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

CASCINA SPINOLA

Best Period

HIDE 4 Species

Grey Heron, Glossy Ibis, Little Grebe, Night Heron, Garganey, Ducks

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 5 - MEADOW Species

Spoonbill, Cattle Egret, Little Egret, Ruff, Common Buzzard

Best Period M. Premoli

M. Premoli

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 6 - BITTERN Species

Ruff, Spotted Redshank, Greenshank, Snipe and other lots of Waders

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 7 Species

Black wiged Stilt, Jack Snipe, Little Ringed Plover, Spotted Crake, Hen Harrier

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 8 Species

Bittern, Teal, Water Rail, Spotted crake, Lapwing, Garganey, Waders

Best Period C. Galliani

F. Rovedo

All year round

Price

40 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 9 - LITTLE OWL Species

Little Owl, Redstart, Black Redstart

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

All year round 60 Euro

2 persons

HIDE 10 - VISITOR CENTRE Species

Sacred Ibis, Glossy Ibis, Marsh Harrier, Night Heron, Herons and Waders

Best Period All year round

300/600 mm

Places

Price

R. Lucietti

F. Rovedo

Lens

40 Euro

4 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

Cascina Spinola estate offers the possibility to book s ingle photo-sessionsbut it is also a perfect destination for week-end long photo experiences that can be c ombined with the use of the dedicatedhides of two INNATE reserves located c lose to Cascina Spinola. During an entire week-end you can relax and really enjoy your visit to these nature areas in the middle of Vercelli ricefields, focusing on its wildlife and tasting the local food excellence. Our hide keeper will welcome you and suggest you the best hides to use.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

M. Preoli

OTHER INFO

M. Preoli

And more!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Day 2

C. Galliani

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 3

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

twin/double and single rooms, with private facilities.

Our ISUU Archive

Not included

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

Maximum of 4 people per group

Arrival at Livorno Ferraris (Vercelli’ province) and meet with our hide keeper. Possible first hide session at Cascina Spinola estate Cascina Spinola estate – hide sessions San Genuario reserve & Fontana Gigante reserve– hide sessions and departure.

INCLUDES accommodation, half board service, local transfers, use of the hides and the electric cars available, excursions, services of the english speaking local guides.

CASCINA SPINOLA

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

In collaboration with:

C. Galliani

Po River & Ricefields

Location

Features

Opening period

Closest Airports

Fontanetto Po VC Tricerro VC All year round

Contacts

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

10 Photo Hides 50 Hectars Torino

Milano Bergamo

ITALY

Milano Malpensa (1,5 h.) Torino Caselle (1 h.)

Suggested Accommodation parcoil babi.com trattoriaorso.it

Bologna

Po River & Ricefields

Fontana Gigante Natural Reserve Tricerro VC

San Genuario Natural Reserve M. Premoli

Fontanetto Po VC

In the northwestern part of Italy, the Vercelli province is famous for the traditional rice-fields where in the past the seasonal job of mondine was fundamental to protect the growing rice plants from weeds (the mondinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life has also been represented in lots of movies). Rice fields are important rural habitats and feeding stations for several species, used as core areas or stepping stones. In this particular landscape we have developed local photographic reserves to help supporting conservation actions thanks to nature photography incomes. The Palude di San Genuario Natural Reserve is part of the larger Parco fluviale del Po e dellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Orba, a regional Protected Area and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an important wetland with spring waters, entirely surrounded by rice fields. Declared SCI (Site of Community Importance) and SPA (Special Protection Areas), this reserve is one of the few places where Bittern, Little Bittern, Marsh Harrier Little Crake and Purple Heron nest side by side. The second reserve called Fontana Gigante Natural Reserve, also included in the regional Protected Area, consists of marshes with spring waters where to find water bodies with abundant floating vegetation, reedbeds and a beautiful marsh forest.

M. Premoli

BIRDS

These reserve offers opportunities to photograph species as Common Buzzard, Common Kingfisher, European Bee-eater, Red-backed Shrike, Eurasian Jay, Long tailed Tit, Great spotted Woodpecker, Bittern, Little Bittern, Purple Heron, Little Crake, Water Rail, Great reed Warbler, Marsh Warbler, Spotted Redshank, Black winged Stilt, Little Egret, Night Heron, Eurasian Coot, Garganey, Shoveler, Sacred Ibis and more. In spring 2015 the Marsh Harrier decided to nest just in front of the Bittern Hide, allowing amazing shots. Among mammals the Red Squirrel is the star of the drinking hide, often interacting with the Great-spotted Woodpecker, as well as the Red Fox that comes to look around. The Palude di San Genuario Reserve is also a well known hotspot for dragonflies and damselflies, with well over 30 species in the checklist. Hides are available all year round, except for the Common Buzzard Hide and the Floating Hide (Fontana Gigante NR) that are open from october to march and the Bee-eater Hide open from may to july. Spring is a good time of the year for different species, while winter is good especially for Common Buzzard and summer for waders.

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

CONSERVATION PROJECTS Thanks to the funds raised with nature tourism, we develop and manage active conservation projects every year. Find more at page 124 & 130

M. Biasioli

M. Premoli M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

L. Zuntini M. Piacentino Biasioli

M. Biasioli

PO RIVER & RICEFIELDS

In the Reserve there are two among the most important breeding colonies of Bittern and Purple Heron

M. Premoli

OTHER WILDLIFE

C. Galliani C. Galliani

C. Galliani

C. Galliani L. Boscain

D. Giuliani

C. Galliani

In Po and Orba Park many are the habitats that are present: woods, wetlands, long river banks, meadows and fields. For this reason, the number of fauna and flora species is elevated and some of them are locally emblematic. Among mammals, Red Squirrell, Roe Deer, Polecat, and different colonies of Bats species like Lesser Horseshoe Bat and Lesser MouseEared Bat. Among reptiles and amphibians, Italian Agile Frog, European Pond Turtle and Italian Crested Newt are common in all the area. Even in terms of enthomology it is possible to see a great species diversity, owing to different habitats, among which Lycaena dispar, Zerynthia polixena, Saga pedo.The area is considered one of the best hotspots for the observation of dragonflies. As it regards flora, many particular habitats and species are present. Orchids are certainly the most emblematic among the local plant species since the area is rich of rare species that can be localized and photographed.

PO RIVER & RICEFIELDS

M. Premoli

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

PHOTOGRAPHY

M. Premoli

PHOTO HIDES

M. Premoli

In the reserves 10 hides are available. Here you can use drinking hides, fixed hides, as well as a floating hide and others in front of ponds to get perspectives at the water level. The bee-eater hide is placed inside another nearby area (near the village of Brusaschetto, on the other side of the Po river) and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s included in a project of habitat restoration where a gravel pit was present. The 3 areas are closed to each others and this allows to visit them in just one day or a week end. These are exclusive natural areas open to photographers upon hide reservation. The local guide and photographer is happy to welcome you in this particular territory where traditional agricolture has to be preserved for biodiversity purpose. A photographic excursion around the ricefields can be easily organized too.

BITTERN - S. GENUARIO Species

Kingfisher, Bittern, Little Crake, Spotted Crake, Water Rail All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

MARSH HARRIER - S. GENUARIO Species

Marsh Harrier, Kingfisher, Bittern, Little Crake, Spotted Crake, Water Rail

M. Piacentino

F. Rovedo

Best Period April/July

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

DRINKING POOL - S. GENUARIO Species

Great-spotted Woodpecker, Nightingale, Dunnock, small passerines

Best Period C. Galliani

A. Maestri

All year round

Price

40 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

PO RIVER & RICEFIELDS

M. Piacentino

M. Premoli

Best Period

PURPLE HERON - S. GENUARIO Species

Purple Heron, Marsh Harrier, Little & Great Bittern, Little Grebe, Night Heron

Best Period

Lens

M. Premoli

April/July

300/500 mm

Places

Price

70 Euro

4 persons

RED SQUIRREL - FONTANA G. Species

Red Squirrel, Dunnok, Jay, Turtle Dove, Great-spotted Woodpecker, small passerines

Best Period

Lens

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

All year round

300/500 mm

Places

Price

50 Euro

2 persons

BUZZARD - FONTANA G. Species Common Buzzard, Fox

Best Period M. Premoli

M. Premoli

Winter time

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

BUZZARD - S. GENUARIO Species

Shoveler, Teal, Wigeon, Mallard, Garganey, Pochard, Gadwall.

Best Period C. Galliani

A. Maestri

Winter/Spring

Price

50 Euro

Lens

500/600 mm

Places

2 persons

NIGHT HERONS - FONTANA G. Species

Night Heron, Herons, Snipe, Blackwinged Stilt, Waders, Kingfisher

M. Piacentino

M. Biasioli

Best Period All year round

Price

50 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

400/600 mm

Places

2 persons

BEE-EATER - BRUSASCHETTO Species

Bee-eater, Melodious Warbler, Redbacked Shrike

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

All year round 50 Euro

4 persons

STONE CURLEW - ISOLA S. ANTONIO Species Stone Curlew

Best Period April/June

300/600 mm

Places

Price

M. Premoli

A. Piglia

Lens

70 Euro

2 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

Both of these INNATE reserves can be easily combined to offer you an photographic experience longer than a single session in one hide. It is indeed worthwhile to stay more time and enjoy at best your visit to these nature areas in the middle of Vercelli ricefields, focusing on its wildlife and tasting the local food excellence. Adding also the use of the photo hides in the Cascina Spinola estate, the tour will give you the opportunity to return home with a good portfolio. Our hide keeper will welcome you and suggest you the best hides to use.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

SKUA Card - HIDES

OTHER INFO

M. Premoli

And more!

M. Premoli

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Day 2

M. Premoli

pbase.com/skua_nature

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

twin/double and single rooms, with private facilities.

Our ISUU Archive

Not included

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

Maximum of 4 people per group

Day 3

Arrival at Fontanetto Po (Vercelli’ province) and meet with our hide keeper. Possible first hide session at San Genuario reserve San Genuario reserve & Fontana Gigante reserve– hide sessions Cascina Spinola estate – hide sessions and departure.

INCLUDES accommodation, half board service, local transfers, use of the hides and the electric cars available, excursions, services of the english speaking local guides.

PO RIVER & RICEFIELDS

And more!

In collaboration with:

S. Stignani

Valli di Argenta

Location

Features

Opening period

Closest Airports

10 Photo Hides 1200 Hectars

Argenta - Ferrara Emilia Romagna

Torino

Milano Bergamo

Bologna (1 h.) - Treviso (2 h.) Milano-Bergamo (3,5 h.)

All year round

Bologna

Suggested Accommodation

Contacts

Agriturismo Vallesanta (Campotto)

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Treviso

Valli di Argenta

ITALY

5 6

8 7

S. Stignani

The Po Delta area is well known as one of the most famous italian birding hotspots, with more than 300 bird species, as well as a good number of other groups of animals and plants too (i.e. 41 species of mammals, 15 species of reptiles, 1000 plant species, etc.).The National Park is divided into six â&#x20AC;&#x153;stationsâ&#x20AC;? around the southern area of the Po Delta and the reserve is the sixth station. The Valli di Argenta reserve, with its 1650 hectares of fresh water valleys, wet meadows and a strip of hygrophilous wood (150 hectares) represents one of the most important and extended fresh water wetlands of Northern Italy.This area in 1976 has been declared as wetland of internacional importance as defined by the Ramsar Convention.This is the only inland part of the Po Delta National Park to present fresh waters, that come from the early XX centuryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s reclamation, now concentrated temporarily in overflow basins before being poured out into the Reno river; this is made in order to allow the area not to be hit again by disastrous floods, as it happened in the past. From the Reno river, the water follows its way to the Adriatic Sea. The main hydraulic function of these valleys is undeniable and fundamental to guarantee the safety of the Bologna lowland. But these wetlands have also a very high value in terms of biodiversity and are very important for the conservation of numerous water species: for example in our reserve there is one of the most important italian colonies of Whiskered Terns, nesting among the widespread water lillies, abundant in the area. The Valli di Argenta reserve is private: visits and the use of its available hides are upon reservation.

M. Biasioli

C. Pedriali

PHOTO HIDES

A. Meliconi

Inside the reserve 10 photographic hides are available. Hides are located in different kind of habitats, as for example in the hygrophilous wood, in the wet meadows, on the water, etc. They have been built in different shapes (i.e. partially buried hides, drinking hides, with or without glasses, etc.) to offer different kinds of perspectives and the best photographic opportunities. The star of this place is the hide called The Arca, a boat hide located inside a big extension of water lilies that faces perches for the Whiskered Terns and other interesting species. Hides are open all year round, except for The Arca Hide that is open from april to august and the Buzzard Hide that is available from september to may. All the seasons offer good photographic opportunities even if spring is the best in terms of quantity of species.

HIDE 1 - DRINKING POOL Species

Sparrowhawk, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Red Squirrel, small passerines

C. Pedriali

S. Tignani

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 2 - BUZZARD Species

Common Buzzard, Great-spotted Woodpecker, Green Woodpecker, Passerines

M. Piacentino

S. Stignani

Best Period All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/600 mm

Places

3 persons

HIDE 3 - KINGFISHER U.W. Species Kingfisher under water

Best Period E. Natali

A. Meliconi

Mainly Spring

Price

70 Euro

Lens

80/100 mm

Places

1 persons

VALLI DI ARGENTA

Best Period

HIDE 4 - KINGFISHER Species Kingfisher

Best Period M. Biasioli

C. Galliani

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

200/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 5 - KINGFISHER LOW LEVEL Species

Kingfisher, Bittern, Pigmy Cormorant, Great Egret, Herons

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

3 persons

HIDE 6 - ARCA Species

Squacco Heron, Great Crested Grebe, Whiskered Tern, Pigmy Cormorant

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

3 persons

HIDE 7 - WAIDERS LOW LEVEL Species

Black winged Stilt, Black-tailed Godwit, Snipe, Teal, Shelduck, Waders, Terns

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/600 mm

Places

3 persons

HIDE 8 - WADERS Species

Black winged Stilt, Black-tailed Godwit, Snipe, Teal, Shelduck, Waders & Ducks

Best Period M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

60 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

500/600 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 9 - HERONS POOL Species

Grey Heron, Great Egret, Little Egret, Pigmy Cormorant, Spoonbill

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

S. Stignani

M. Biasioli

All year round 60 Euro

2 persons

HIDE 10 - ARBOREAL DRINKING Species

Red Squirrel, Stone Marten, Woodpeckers, small passerines

Best Period from 2018

300/500 mm

Places

Price

M. Biasioli

R. Lucietti

Lens

60 Euro

2 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

The number of hides in the reserve is also perfect for week-end experiences.You will overnight in one of the comfortable affiliated accommodation close to the reserve and our hide keeper will suggest you the best hides to try. Especially during migration number of species to photograph can increase and it could be worthwhile stay longer.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

OTHER INFO

A. Meliconi

And more!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 2

M. Piacentino

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Day 3

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

twin/double and single rooms, with private facilities.

Our ISUU Archive

Not included

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

Maximum of 4 people per group

Arrival at Valli di Argenta reserve (close to Ferrara) and meet with our hide keeper. Possible first hide session. Valli di Argenta reserve – hide sessions Valli di Argenta reserve, moring hide session and departure.

INCLUDES accommodation, meals, use of the available hides, services of the local hide keeper.

VALLI DI ARGENTA

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

G. Bissattini

La Mandria In collaboration with:

Location

Features

Opening period

Closest Airports

4 Photo Hides 3000 Hectars

Venaria Reale, Turin Piedmont - Italy

Torino

Turin - Caselle (0,30’) Milano - Malpensa (1,5 h.)

All year round

Milano

ITALY Bologna

Suggested Accommodation

Contacts

cascinaoslera.it

G. Bissattini

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

In La Mandria Regional Park, history and nature intertwine creating a perfect combination of emotions and culture. In XIX Century this was one of King Vittorio Emanuele II’s game reserves. He asked to build a high bundary wall that surrounds this 3000 hectares estate and this allowed to preserve this portion of flat forest that used to be so properous in all Padana lowlands. La Mandria is just a few kilometres from Turin, so it is a real privilege to observe birds of prey, Black Storks, Cranes, Great Egrets, Curlew and much more species so close to such a big city. Osprey, European pond turtles, Grey herons’ heronry, tufted duck can be seen close to the inner lakes. As a former game reserve, this estate hosts many mammals, like Deer, Doe and Wild Boar. Several dedicated hides will be built inside the estate and it will become another photographic destination among Innate reserves.

La Mandria

G. Bissattini

PHOTO HIDES

WOODLAND HIDE Species

Hawfinch, Brambling, Jay, Short-Toed Treecreeper, Nuthatch, Woodpeckers.

Best Period G. Bissattini

G. Bissattini

All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

4 persons

BADGERS HIDE Species

Badgers, Fox, Tawny Owl

Best Period G. Bissattini

G. Bissattini

All year round

Price

90 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

100/300 mm

Places

4 persons

RED DEER MEADOW Species

Red Deer and sometimes Fallow Deer and Fox

Best Period Price

G. Bissattini

September/October 50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

RED DEER RIVER Species

Red Deer and sometimes Fallow Deer and Fox

Best Period Price

G. Bissattini

50 Euro

- 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

Between September and October during the Red-deer rutting time, it is possible to use several fixed and mobile hides to immortalise beautiful male specimens in different scenarios like clearings, deciduous forests or while crossing a stream.This is an activity to be booked in time as it is linked to a very limited period.

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

OTHER INFO P-Base Photo Gallery

Places

2 persons

Since last year, La Mandria night hide gives excellent experiences and photographic results, especially with regard to Badgers. Thanks to a specially developed lighting system, it will be possible to photograph these beautiful nocturnal mammals even without the use of flashes throughout the year, including winter. For those who want to use the flash but are not yet familiar enough with night photography, our expert hide keeper will join you before and / or during the session to advise you the best setting and get the best possible result.

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

pbase.com/skua_nature

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

G. Bissattini

Our ISUU Archive

LA MANDRIA

SKUA Card - TRAVELS

300/600 mm

HIGHTLIGHTS

SAVE YOUR MONEY With the SKUA Card you can take advantages in all our reserves and tours worldwide, as well as enjoy personalized services. You can apply to it very easily and you will receive it directly at home. Save your Money and enjoy your Passion!

Lens

G. Bissattini

September/October

R. Cebrian Alonso

Finca La Parrilla

Location

Serrejon - Caceres Extremadura - Spain

Opening period All year round

Contacts

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Features

10 Photo Hides 900 Hectars

Closest Airports

Madrid Barajas (3 h.)

Suggested Accommodation

In the Reserve there is a lodge with 8 rooms

SPAIN

Porto

Madrid Caceres

Lisbona

La Parrilla

La Parrilla estate is inside the famous MonfragĂźe National Park, which, with its 18.396 hectares, has been the first protected area to be declared in Extremadura, in 1979, and subsequently became a National Park in 2007, as well as being a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a real jewel of biodiversity, protecting mediterranean forests and shrubby areas, famous worldwide for its invaluable environmental and particularly ornithological heritage: it hosts a huge population of different vultures species, it has one of the highest densities of the endemic and very rare Spanish Imperial Eagle, and during the winter impressive numbers of Common Cranes are present.

M. Steenhaut

76 M. Biasioli

M. Steenhaut

THE RESERVE

FINCA LA PARRILLA L. Garcia

M. Biasioli F. Marquez

M. Biasioli

M. Piacentino M. Piacentino

M. Biasioli

The old Casa Rural in La Parrilla, now completely renovated and ready to accommodate its hosts, is situated in the heart of a 1250 hectares private estate. High on a hill, it offers a privileged view over the Tago river valley, over the dehesa and on the rocky cliffs of the Sierra La Parrilla. It is an eco-lodge with well-finished and charming furniture, modern and spacious rooms with en-suite facilities, a couple of living rooms where you can relax and a large table in the patio for open air dinners, so you will be constantly entertained by the flight ofÂ vultures: a real oasis of peace, where to adapt your pace to the pace of nature, with no hurry, for the Griffon Vultures are not in a hurry when they fly effortlessly in the blue sky . Â

L. Garcia

M. Mendi M. Mendi

So far 180 bird species have been recorded in Monfragüe National Park, with more than a hundred breeding: La Parrilla estate hosts a lot of this biodiversity, including arguably the biggest colony in the world of Cinereous Vulture and the second biggest of Griffon Vulture. And these are by no means the only raptors present here: at least three males of Eagle Owl sing from the rocky cliffs in front of the lodge, while a pair of Spanish Imperial Eagle has its nest nearby; Red Kites, Golden Eagles, Bonelli’s Eagles and Sparrowhawks fly over the area almost every day.Typical mediterranean species such as Thekla Lark, Red-rumped Swallow, Blue Rock-thrush, Woodchat Shrike and Spotless Starling can be seen in the more open areas, while the shrubby areas host a plethora of Sylvia warblers: Dartford, Subalpine, Sardinian, Common, Western Orphean and Iberian Chiffchaf. In the more humid areas, like the valley floors where streams flow, there are high densities of Golden Orioles, and Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Grey Wagtail, Jays, Azure-winged Magpies and Hawfinches are all present. It is possible to organize expeditions for finding and photographing particular birds inside the estate or in the immediate surroundings, dedicated night sessions for spotting owls, and also to set up temporary hides in order to maximise the photo opportunities. Find out how to do it!

M. Mendi

BIRDS

M. Mendi

C. Galliani

M. Premoli

M. Lorenzo

C. Romano

FINCA LA PARRILLA

M. R. Romero

Inside the estate one of the biggest european Black Vulture colonies

T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo

Since La Parrilla includes a wide section of the integral natural reserve of the Monfragüe National Park, a lot of the over 50 mammal species present can be seen, with a bit of luck. Not only the Red Deer coming close to the lodge in their rutting season, but also Red Fox and Beech Marten often come close to the buildings at night. Even Wolf has been seen inside the property, while very interesting species present are Wild Cat, Common Genet and Egyptian Mongoose, typical african species, as well as Otter and Badger. This year the SKUA Nature team has finally found the presence of the “Iberian Lyncx” inside the Park of the Monfrague from which it was extinct from the 70s. One of the last observations of it was in La Parrilla and ironically it reappeared just there. Currently there are no permanent individuals in the area, but this discovery allows us to glimpse the future recolonization of the area in the near future. Among smaller mammals, Garden Dormouse and Southern Water Vole are worth mentioning. It is possible to organize special expeditions for finding and photographing particular plants, insects and mammals, with dedicated walks and jeep rides, both at night and during the day, and it is also possible to set up nocturnal photo sessions. Find out how to do it!

C. Galliani

Merce R. Romero

I. Maiorano

Bissattini P.G. Jaez

M. R. Romero

MAMMALS

INSECTS & PLANTS

FINCA LA PARRILLA L. Boscain

L. Garcia

C. Galliani

R. Sindaco

The landscape of the property is made up of two main environments: the dehesa, with scattered holm oaks and huge cork oaks, whose existence is guaranteed artificially through the grazing of goats, sheep and pigs; and the mediterranean scrub, of natural origin. Both these two environments host a large variety of plants and insects species. There are extraordinary bloomings of Common Gum Cistus and Broteroi Peony, along with a lot of other mediterranean species like Spanish Foxglove or Tongue Orchid, among which fly elegant butterflies like Spanish Festoon, Spanish Swallowtail and Two-tailed Pasha.

C. Galliani

T. Dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Arcangelo R. Sindaco

R. Sindaco

C. Galliani

AMPHIBIANS & REPTILES

Though arid, the mediterranean scrub and the dehesa of Monfrague host an unexpected abundance of amphibian species, which reveal themselves during wet days and nights: Iberian Ribbed Newt, Pygmy Marbled Newt, Iberian Painted Frog, Western Spadefoot, Natterjack Toad, Mediterranean Tree Frog are only a few of the numerous species present here. It is possible to organize special expeditions for finding and photographing particular reptiles and amphibian species, with dedicated night walks and jeep rides, and it is also possible to set up nocturnal photo sessions and temporary terrariums and aquariums to maximise photo opportunities. Find out how to do it!

G. Bissattini C. Galliani L. Boscain

C. Galliani

FINCA LA PARRILLA

P. Jaez

M. Biasioli

The peculiar geological history of the Iberian Peninsula has strongly influenced its reptilian fauna: the temporary closure of the Gibraltar Strait has guaranteed an exchange between european and north african species, while glaciations have only lightly touched northern Spain, thus allowing the survival of tertiary fauna, unlike in the rest of Europe. All of this, together with the orography of the Iberian Peninsula and the climatic peculiarities typical of the mediterranean habitats, has made the Iberian Peninsula, and even more so the Monfragüe National Park, a real herpetological biodiversity treasure: a large part of the species are endemic or sub-endemic, like Iberian Worm Lizard, Ocellated Lizard, Ladder Snake, or species for which Spain represents the very core area of their distribution, like Spanish Pond Turtle, Iberian Wall Lizard, Horseshoe Whip Snake and Lataste’s Viper.

PHOTO HIDES

E. Natali

L. Cuaresma

A. Rodriguez

One of the very few hides in Europe where to photographing Golden Oriole

C. Galliani

A drinking-hide built up in a tree immediately takes us in the shady atmosphere of a valley floor grove, where Golden Oriole and Hawfinch come to drink. A perfectly camouflaged rock-hide disappears among the rocks and stones on top of a cliff, offering a fantastic view over the dehesa down below and on the vultures coming back to their nests in the sunset light.Â A large drinking trough acts as a magnet for passerines in the surroundings of the lodge, from Linnets to Red-rumped Swallows and Crested Larks. A floating-hide allows to take pictures of very intimate moments, when scavenger birds take a bath after their meal.These are only a few of the many opportunities you have in this reserve.Â

HIDE 1 - PIZARRA Species

Azure Winged Magpie, Linnet, Swallows, Larks, Spotless Starling, Small Birds

R. Lucietti

J. G. Aguado

All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

6 persons

HIDE 2 - TOCON Species

Blue Rock Thrush, Woodchat Shrike, Mistle Thrush, Larks, Redstarts

Best Period I. Maiorano

R. Lucietti

All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 3 - ARBOREAL DRINKING Species

Golden Oriol, Azure Winged Magpie, Hawfinch, Warblers, Nuthatch

Best Period L. Ercoli

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

FINCA LA PARRILLA

Best Period

HIDE 4 - RED DEER Species

Red Deer, Fox, Orphean Warbler, Mediterranean Warblers

Best Period G. Bissattini

M. Steenhaut

All year round

Price

50 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 5 - SIERRAS Species

Blue Rock Thrush, Redstarts, Kites, Red-legged Partridge, Vultures

Best Period R. Lucietti

C. Romano

All year round

Price

80 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 6 - ENCINA Species

Red Kite, Black Kite, Common Buzzard, Booted Eagle All year round

M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

Best Period Price

80 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 7 - MULADAR Species

Egyptian Vulture, Black Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Kites, Raven

Best Period L. Garcia

I. Garcia

All year round

Price

80 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

4 persons

HIDE 8 - FLOATING HIDE Species

Herons, Storks, Vultures in the water, Kites, Sandpipers

Best Period C. Romano

M. Biasioli

All year round

Price

80 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 9 - DEHESA Species

Spanish Sparrow, Rock Sparrow, Mediterranean Warblers

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

R. Lucietti

All year round 50 Euro

2 persons

HIDE 3 - NIGHT ARBOREAL Species Genet, Beech Marten

Best Period R. Lucietti

R. Cabrian Alonso

All year round

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

80 Euro

2 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

La Parrilla estate is open to individual photographers and groups. Apart from single photo sessions you can also experience a weekend long stay, enjoying the local home-made cuisine and La Parrilla casa rural, the cosy accommodation on a hill inside the estate, surrounded by nature, from where you can often hear the eagle owl calling. An additional day can be added to visit the nearby Las Vinas estate, where you will have the opportunity to use hides for other species that will make your portfolio rich of different target species that the picturesque dehesa landscape hosts.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

SKUA Card - HIDES

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 3

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

Our ISUU Archive

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

issuu.com/skuanature

J. M. Rosa Silva

Day 2

I. Maiorano

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

FINCA LA PARRILLA

OTHER INFO

I. Maiorano

And more!

I. Maiorano

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

Welcome at La Parrilla estate and photo sessions La Parrilla estate – photo sessions Optional: Las Vinas estate – photo sessions and departure

Not Included twin/double and single rooms, with private facilities. Maximum of 6 people per group

INCLUDES accommodation (at La Parrilla Casa Rural), full board service, use of the available hides, services of the local guides.

M. Biasioli

Las ViĂąas - Acehuche

Features

Location

4 Photo Hides 15 Hectars

Acehuche - Caceres Extremadura - Spain

Closest Airports

Opening period All year round

Madrid Barajas (3 h.) Lisbona Portela (3,5 h.)

Contacts

Suggested Accommodation

Madrid Caceres

Lisbona

Our lodge at La Parrilla is just 1 hour far from the Reserve. In the surroundings there are other accommodation too

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

SPAIN

Porto

Las Viñas

Finca Los Morales M. Biasioli

Finca La Juliana

M. Biasioli

Acehúche is a small village in Caceres region, close to Portugal border. The area includes different ecosystems where the typical “dehesa extremena” is dominant.The combination between wineyards and Olive Trees make this land the perfect place where to meet and photograph several species. It has a unique wealth in terms of bird species, like Black Stork, Golden Eagle, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Eagle Owl and Vultures, that have chosen this land for nesting. Las Vinas has been elected as the first place in Europe where a very important Egyptian Vultures colony (120 individuals) overwinters.The abundance of food and the mediterrean climate, typical of this land, contributed to make this reserve the Holy Temple of this scavenger species.

M. R. romero

Finca El Infierno

Finca EL Infierno

Finca Los Morales

Finca La Juliana 89

The number of species that can be photographed in this reserve depends on the period. Without any doubt, spring is the best time of the year. At that time Black Vultures, Griffon Vultures, Egyptian Vultures, Black and Red Kites, Rufous Bush Robins, Golden Orioles, Shrikes and Hawfinches become the stars of the hides offering many chances to take awesome pictures. Rufous Bush Robin prefers specific areas for nesting and live. With no doubts, it seems that one of the drinking hides of the reserve has the typical features that these birds love enough to come back every year from mid May up to the end of September. From April to November the drinking hides become the unique place where many birds can find water. Many passerines come in large numbers, delighting us with their baths, fast passages and funny ways of eating. On the other hand, the big birds of prey make this place unique. Black Storks, Golden Eagles, Spanish Imperial Eagles and Booted Eagles choose this territory to live and grow their chicks. Not only themâ&#x20AC;ŚRed and Black Kites, Raven,s Griffon Vultures and the majestic beauty of the Black Vultures. They all come in sequence to eat the banquet we offer to them from the dedicated hides. And, close to one of our hides dedicated to birds of prey, the Golden Eagle breeds. From these hides it is possible to observe the low flight of the Short-toed Eagle, the Shrikes assaulting Black Kites which come too much close to their nests. Black and White Storks visit the hides, as well as curious foxes and funny Egyptian Mangooses and Badgers. The high number of species, the climate and the stunning landscapes make this land a Nature Sacred Temple that nobody can miss.

A. Rodriguez

R. Lucietti

M. Apollo

A. Rodriguez

BIRDS

R. Lucietti

M. Biasioli

A. Rodriguez

M. Biasioli

A. Rodriguez L. Zuntini M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

LAS VINAS

M. Premoli

Two drinking hides can produce up to 27 species in less than 3 hours

M. Biasioli

M. Lorenzo

OTHER WILDLIFE

M. R. Romero

R. Lucietti

C. Pedriali

R. Lucietti

M. Rodriguez

L. Boscain

Such a varying land can host a great number of animal and plant species, among which some are very emblematic in terms of conservation and photography. Among mammals, in addition to foxes, at sunset in dense vegetation, it is usual to see Badger, Mongoose, Genet, Stone Marten and, in open spaces, Deer. Among reptiles and amphibians, interesting species are Ocellated Lizard, Ladder Snake, Western Montpellier Snake,Viperine Snake, Marbled Newt, Iberian spadefoot toad, Ladder Snake. Many species of plants and orchids colour extremena spring offering shelter and food to lots of insects, among which it is worth naming Nemoptera bipennis.

M. Lorenzo

LAS VINAS

Developed as a local reserve, La Vinas is equipped with 4 latest generation dedicated hides. Two drinking hides can produce up to 27 species in less than 3 hours and these include Rufous Bush Robin and Orphean Warbler. The other two hides are dedicated to scavenger birds and Eagles (in perspective), with special backgrounds which give the chance to take terrific pictures. “Infierno” hide is located on the highest part of a hill and it is equipped with 4 seats useful to photograph the flying birds of prey. The background has been thought to allow photographers to take awesome pictures avoiding the sky. Acehúche is the only place in Europe where Egyptian Vultures overwinter.They attract many people who want to come, see and photograph them as this is something unique which had never happened before. Despite its dimensions, Las Viñas offers a great number of species. For this reason, we offer to our clients the possibility to stay for the week-end, accommodating in a “Casa Rural” located at just 15 minutes from the hides. In this way, clients can take photo sessions and, at the same time, try the tasty local food in a genuine atmosphere.

M. Lorenzo

M. R. Romero

M. Lorenzo

PHOTOGRAPHY

M. R. Romero

PHOTO HIDES

HIDE 1 - DRINKING INFIERNO Species

Rofous Bush Robin, Golden Oriole, Orphean Warbler, many little passerines All year round

R. Lucietti

M. R. Romero

Best Period Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 2 - DRINKING JULIANA Species

Stonechat, Woodchat Shrike, Spanish Sparrow, many little passerines

Best Period R. Lucietti

A. Rodriguez

All year round

Price

60 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 3 - FLYING RAPTORS Species

Red Kite, Black Kite, Egyptian Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Black Vulture

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

M. Premoli

M. Steenhaut

All year round 60 Euro

4 persons

HIDE ALZACOLA Species

Red Kite, Black Kite, Egyptian Vulture, Griffon Vulture, Black Vulture

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

M. Apollo

A. Rodriguez

All year round 60 Euro

2 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

At Las Vinas reserve, apart from booking single photo sessions, you could plan a week-end long experience to try all of the extisting hides. Close to the reserve different accommodation are possible to find, but we do suggest to stay in our close La Parrilla estate’ Lodge to get the chance to enjoy a quiet and relaxed holiday surrounded by nature and the possible use of the Parrilla hides too. Our hide keeper will welcome you and suggest you the best hides to try.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

SKUA Card - HIDES

LAS VINAS

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

OTHER INFO

R. Lucietti

And more!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Day 2

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 3

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

Not included

issuu.com/skuanature

M. Lorenzo

Our ISUU Archive

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

Welcome at Las Vinas reserve and photo sessions Las Vinas reserve – photo sessions Optional: La Parrilla estate – photo sessions and departure

INCLUDES Use of the hides and local guide. Maximum of 6 people per group

M. Premoli

Monte Barata In collaboration with:

Location

Monforte de Beira Castelo Branco - Portugal

Opening period

Inauguration before the end of 2018

Contacts

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Features

Castelo Branco

5 Photo Hides 800 Hectars

Leiria

Closest Airports Madrid (4 h.) Lisbona (2,5 h.)

Suggested Accommodation

PORTUGAL Lisbona

Monte Barata

Evora

In the Reserve there will be a new lodge with 8 rooms

This estate of 800 hectares has been purchased by Quercus in 1992, with the main purpose of conservation. It is located between the villages of Malpica do Tejo and Monforte da Beira (Castelo Branco) and it is 5,5 Km far from the closest populated place. The Mediterrean mountains are the main landscape element of the estate, with big trees, olive trees, natural grazing lands and endemic vegetation along Marmelal and Juncoso valley. Oaks and Cork Oaks, mainly of big dimensions co-exist in the area together with Mediterrean vegetation in contrast with the ground covering species which are gradually replaced by grazing lands and Eucalyptus woods.

A lodge is under construction inside the estate and it will be completely dedicated to our clients. At the moment, there are no livestock, which allowed the soil and the endemic flora to recover shortly, guaranteeing a high flora and fauna biodiversity.

Merce R. Romero

M. R. Romero

Merce R. Romero

The reserve is protected by a real and solid conservation project which includes maintenance, preservation of the Olive trees, nature tourism, environmental education and research. Here Deer and Wild boar coexist together with Birds of prey and Black storks.

WILDLIFE

C. Galliani

M. Mendi

M. Premoli

Completely wild, an elevated number of Deer and Wild boar live inside the reserve. During the breeding season, Deer cry their roaring during the last summer evenings, when the first rains announce the arrival of the Autumnal season. This period (September), even if short, gives the great chance to take stunning pictures. On the other hand, the big Birds of Prey like Golden Eagles, Short-toed Snake Eagles, Booted Eagles, Kites and Buzzards have chosen this place as their nesting sacred temple as they can nest in a safe and sheltered place here. This is the real exclusive issue that other reserves donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have, due to the intrusion of the humans. Also Black Sorks,Vultures, Eurasian Griffons, Cinereus Vultures, Egyptian Vultures, and the pecualiar Blackshouldered Kites have chosen this place to feed. Black-shouldered Kites and Kestrels like the reserve wide open areas where they can find food and can be spotted easily. On the other hand, Kingfishers are the star of the stream that mark the border of the estate. On the higher lands, where old Pines still exist, the Eurasian Green Woodpecker finds its daily portion of food. Close to the lodge, Olive trees are home to Tawny Owls and Little Owls and during the summer nights they can be heard singing to the full moon. The reserve never sleeps: Genets and Martens come to visit us, until the sun rises.That is the moment when the Mangoose wakes up and starts wandering around the estate looking for food.

Campanarios de Azaba - G. GrandÄ ns

MONTE BARATA

Thanks to the high variety of species, the photographic opportunities are endless. This is where the Innate Network first night hide complete of bed and bathroom has been placed. With two places, it is dedicated to Genets, Martens, Tawny Owls and the real duke of the estate, The Eagle-Owl. The chance to sleep inside the hide, surrounded by the Oaks forest, makes this experience unique and similar to a real unforgettable adventure. On the other hand, together with hides dedicated to peculiar species like the Kingfisher, close to the stream, a special hide, made up of a tower sheltered by trees, is dedicated to the Golden Eagle and its majestic flight. It has been placed in a strategic position, among the trees, perfeclt thought to catch the arrival of the real queen of Monte Barata, the Golden Eagle. The Muladar can host four people, with a ground level perspective. This is where the Lavandula plants grow tight, giving to the Kites and the Egyptian Vultures pictures a lilac backgorund. We have not forgotten about the smallest ones, the paserines: very close to the lodge, there is a 4 places drinking hide which is completely dedicated to them. It is northoriented, to get as much light as possible and surrounded by lots of Securinega plants, which give a reddish shade to the hide background.

Merce R. Romero

M. Premoli

Merce R. Romero

PHOTOGRAPHY

M. Valentini

PHOTO HIDES HIDE 1 - DRINKING LODGE Species

Hawfinch, Serin, Spanish sparrow, Mediterranean Warbler, Orphean Warbler

Best Period M. Premoli

P. Fumagalli

All year round

Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/600 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 2 - VULTURES Species

Red Kite, Black Kite, Griffon, Black & Egyptian Vulture, Golden Eagle. All year round

M. Biasioli

M. R. Romero

Best Period Price

60 Euro

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

4 persons

HIDE 2 - DRINKING JULIANA Species

Genet, Beech Marten, Hawfinch, Shrikes, Nuthatch, Warblers

M. R. Romero

Best Period All year round

Price

60 Euro

For info and reservations, please contact our Office. We speak English, Italian, French, Spanish and Russian

info@skuanature.com From UK 020 81449814 from other Countries +39 0141918403 Working hours Monday to Friday - 09.30AM to 06.00PM

100

Teresa Rocchi

Logistic & Operations

Lens

80/600 mm

Places

2 persons

HIDE 4 - FLYING RAPTORS Species

Red Kite, Black Kite, Egyptian Vulture, Golden Eagle, Booted Eagle All year round

M. R. Romero

Best Period

Lens

300/600 mm

Places

Price

60 Euro

2 persons

HIDE 5 - BEE-EATER Species

Bee-Eater, Kingfisher, Black Stork, Mediterranea Warbler

Best Period

Lens

300/500 mm

Places

Price

F. Rovedo

P. Fumagalli

April/June 60 Euro

2 persons

SAVE YOUR MONEY

WEEK-END PACK

In Monte Barata it is possible to book a single photo session or plan a 3 days experience to try all of the extisting hides.The lodge inside the reserve is comfortable and gives you the chance to enjoy a relaxing holiday surrounded by nature. We suggest you to combine Monte Barata with Las Vinas, one of our reserves close to Portugal border where you can try different drinking hides and take stunning pictures of the flying kites from a special dedicated hide.

SKUA Card - TRAVELS - 100€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides And more!

OTHER INFO

Merce R. Romero

And more!

OUTLINE ITINERARY

P-Base Photo Gallery

Day 1

Look at the pictures taken at the reserve several hides here:

Day 2

pbase.com/skua_nature

Day 3

Don’t miss our news! Follow us at real time on Facebook, Instagram e Youtube

Not included

INCLUDES Use of the hides and local guide.

issuu.com/skuanature

C. Galliani

Our ISUU Archive

Download our catalogue or the reserves pdfs

Arrival at Monte Barata, photo sessions Monte Barata, morning and afternoon Las Vinas, photo sessions. Departure.

Maximum of 6 people per group

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MONTE BARATTA

SKUA Card - HIDES

- 50€ discount on every tours - 5% discount on shorter tours - 10% discount on every photo session in our hides

M. Biasioli

Las Guacamayas In collaboration with:

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Location

Paso Caballo - Flores Peten - Guatemala

Features

5000 Hectars

Opening period

Closest Airports

Contacts

Accommodation

All year round

Flores Puerto Barrios

GUATEMALA

Flores (2h.)

Quetzaltenango

In the Reserve there is a lodge with 8 rooms

Guatemala City

Las Guacamayas Biological Station is located within the Laguna del Tigre National Park, in the northern part of Guatemala, on Mexican border.The area is more than 5,000 hectares large and the primary forest hosts 335 species of birds between resident and migratory. Laguna del Tigre National Park in northwestern Petén is part of the Maya Biosphere Reserve.The National Park protects humid lowland broadleaf forests and extensive wetlands. Of the 16 ecosystems that form the MBR, 13 are represented in this park and also has the status of Ramsar site because of its size, wealth and characteristics of its wetland ecosystem.The east end of the park is part of the nesting area of scarlet macaw in Guatemala, containing two of the most important sites fornesting of this threatened species (Peru and Peñón de Buena Vista). In fact, this place can be defined as the stronghold of the Guatemalan population of Scarlet Macaws, which has been extirpated at most other sites in the country, such as the Pacific slope lowlands and foothills, and the lowlands and foothills of Alta Verapaz and Izabal.The southeastern part of the park is relatively easily accessible and this is where the Estación Biológica Las Guacamayas is.

R. Amado

C. Chablè

Alain B.

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Las Guaquamayas Reserve

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J. Such

M. Biasioli

Alain B.

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Alain B.

M. Biasioli

THE RESERVE The reserve is named after the Scarlet macaw (Ara macao cyanoptera), in Spanish “Guacamaya”. It is an endangered species and the reserve, “la estaciòn”, has been working on its conservancy project for years. In fact, scientific research is an important pillar of The Guacamayas Biological Station and the primary reason for the Station’s existence. A large Biological Station like the Guacamayas is of interest to many researchers working with wild fauna or flora. Priorities for the station include research on climate change, the toxicity of rivers (San Pedro, Sacluc and San Juan), and the growth rates of rainforest trees.The station is located along the shore of the Rio San Pedro Martyr, which is one of the tropical wetlands of the region. Although the designation “Laguna del Tigre” is used to denote the location, the camp is actually nowhere physically adjacent to this or any of the other beautiful lakes in the area. The Las Guacamayas station is about halfway between Paso Caballos and the protected area of El Peru, where arqueological research is being conducted.

Las Guacamayas biological station is fully involved into conservation projects related to Laguna Del Tigre National Park natural and cultural heritage. SKUA Nature is involved into this conservation project with the aim of promoting nature tourism producing incomes to be destinated to preservation through photo tourism.

C. ChablĂ¨

Merce R. Romero

LAS GUACAMAYAS

M. Biasioli

C. ChablĂ¨

This cloud forest hosts species like Ara macao cyanoptera, which chose this place to nest, Jaguars (Pantera onca),Tapirs (Tapirus bairdii) and a great varietiy of resident and migratory birds, anfibians and reptiles.

105

A. Berger

Arch. ESG

Arch. ESG Arch. ESG

Las Guacamayas lodge is a gem immersed into the primary forest on the banks of a beautiful river. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a splendidly isolated spot and there is comfortable, eco-friendly accommodation in several thatched-roof houses. Nature is absolutely overwhelming, from bugs to birds and monkeys. Not only is it incredibly picturesque, but there is wildlife of all sorts everywhere, without going too far from the lodge; birds and howler monkeys are the most obvious around the station, but thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plenty more to find when you look around. Peace is everywehere and the sensation of being away from civilisation is immediate. The reserve can host only 6 guests at the same time and this is another detail that will contribute to make your staying as relaxing as possible.

M. Premoli

Arch. ESG

THE LODGE

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PHOTOGRAPHY

Merce R. Romero J. Such

M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

Merce R. Romero J. Such

LAS GUACAMAYAS

M. Biasioli

A. Berger

A huge number of photographic opportunities, thanks also to its strategical ubication. Animals are very confident here; it is not so rare to have breakfast at the lodge surrounded by Hummingbirds and other species like Chachalacas while monkeys cry in the forest. The 5000 hectars of the jungle are connected by a network of roads, which can be run by vehicles to enjoy the mistery of the forest and meet the species living in this endangered land that used to be made of primary forest. One of the most exiting experiences is the speed boat excursion along Rio San Pedro river looking for the huge number of birds and mammals species, like Agami Heron, Tiger Heron, Sun Grebe, all 5 Kingfisher species, Otter, There are morning and afternoon excursions but it is possible to make night tours, too, to spot nocturnal birds like nightjars, owls and the several crocodiles populating the river. This is why SKUA Nature felt the need to preserve and take care of this land, which is one of the last places where the Big King of the jungle, the Jaguar, finds a safe shelter.

107

M. Biasioli

BIRDS

108

The undisputed king of the estate is the Scarlet Macaw (Ara Macao Cyanoptera) as this is the only place in Guatemala where it nests. However, this species is just one of the hundreds that have chosen this National Park.The variety of ecosystems makes this place the ideal habitat for many other interesting and endemics species living in wetlands, marshes and forests. The forest north of Río San Pedro is home to more than 300 bird species of lowland rainforest.The extensive forest provides habitat to a number of forest raptors including Ornate HawkEagle and Gray-headed Kite.The forest is accessible on two loop trails of 1 km and 4 km length in the surroundings of the Estación Biológica Las Guacamayas. The small loop trail has an observation tower which allows views into the surrounding forest canopy and over the plain of Río San Pedro. With some good luck Lovely Cotinga can be seen in fruiting trees. In the late morning the tower is a good spot to see forest raptors like Plumbeous Kite, Swallow-tailed Kite, Broad-winged Hawk, Short-tailed Hawk, Crane Hawk, Black-collared Hawk, King Vultures, Bat Falon, Laughing Falcon, as well as Turkey Vulture, Lesser Yellow-headed Vulture, and Black Vulture. Most common owls around the Estación are Mottled Owl and Guatemalan Screech Owl, but also Spectacled Owl and Crested Owl have been recorded in the National Park. Along the river five species of night hawks have been recorded (Pauraque,Yucatan Poorwill,Yucatan Nightjar, Lesser Nighthawk, Short-tailed Nighthawk) and Northern Potoo.

C. Chablè J. Such

J. Such

M. Biasioli

J. Such

C. Chablè

LAS GUACAMAYAS

F. Fernandez

J. Such

C. Chablè M. Biasioli

The archaeoloical site El Perú is located 7 km west of Estación Biológica Las Guacamayas. El Perú is accessible from the Estación Biológica Las Guacamayas by boat along the San Pedro River with a subsequent 6 km hike through rain forest. El Perú is great for seeing Scarlet Macaws. Wildlife Conservation Society Guatemala maintains a field station in El Perú to monitor and protect the local macaw population. In scrub vegetation along the rivers and in open oak savannah some birds from the Yucatan peninsula can be observed, such as Yucatan Woodpecker,Yucatan Nightjar, Caribbean Dove, and Northern Cardinal. A boat tour along the San Pedro and Sacluk rivers provides good chances to spot Agami Heron, while the vegetation around the estaciòn hosts many other species like Yucatan Jay,Yucatan Flycatcher, Grey-throated Chat, White-collared Manakin, Red-capped Manakin,Tody Motmot.

109

OTHER WILDLIFE

Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

Laguna del Tigre National Park and its primary forest are the land of different mammals and some of them are among the most charming species in the world. Since pre-Hispanic times the Jaguar (Panthera Onca) has been very important in Guatemalan culture. Unfortunately, this species is endagered. In the last ten years important advances in knowledge of Guatemalan jaguar population status and the management actions needed for its long term conservation have been made. Jaguar distribution in Guatemala is estimated to cover 58% of the country and 47.2% of this distribution constitutes protected areas.The Maya Biosphere Reserve (MBR) located in the north of Guatemala constitutes the largest continuous block of tropical forest located in the protected areas of Guatemala.The MBR is a strong hold for jaguar conservation in the country and region, because it potentially maintains genetic flow among Mexican and Belizean Jaguar populations. Puma is more adaptable that Jaguar having wider distribution. Puma, as Jaguar, is legally protected by Guatemalan law, however it faces serious threats such as habitat loss, prey hunting, hunting and direct prosecution when in conflict with humans for domestic animal predation.The Maya Biosphere Reserve is the last

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Nini B.

R. Griffin M. Biasioli

C. ChablĂ¨ R. Griffin

LAS GUACAMAYAS

Nini B.

Merce R. Romero

strong hold for significant puma population sin Guatemala. Laguna del Tigre National Park and its primary forest are the land of other beautiful mammals, reptiles and amphibians: Wild pigs (Tayassu Pecari) and Tapirs (Tapirus bairdii) are always around and the river just in front of the lodge hosts the PetĂŠn Crocodile (Crocodylus moreletii), an endemic species, as well as the white turtle (Dermatemys Mawii).

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In collaboration with:

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Merce R. Romero

Finca Los Andes

Santa Bárbara - Suchitepéquez Guatemala

Opening period

Opening March 2019

Contacts

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Features

3 Photo Hides 600 Hectars

Flores

Closest Airports

Puerto Barrios

GUATEMALA

Guatemala City (4h.)

Accommodation

Finca Los Andes

Quetzaltenango

In the Reserve there is a lodge with 8 rooms

Arch. Los Andes

A. Maestri

R. Fernandez Ravelo

Los Andes Nature Reserve is located on the southern slopes of the Atitlán volcano in Guatemala, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.The topography at Los Andes is very pronounced and the elevations go from 900 to 1,500 m.a.s.l. The reserve is an area in which environmental conservation, agricultural production and human development are carried out in a sustainable manner, for the well being of present and future generations. In 2001, Los Andes was certified as a Private Nature Reserve and is a founding member of the Guatemalan Association of Private Nature Reserves (Asociación de Reservas Naurales Privadas de Guatemala – ARNPG). Sixty percent of Los Andes is original forest. Abundant wildlife, especially birds, fills the tea gardens and coffee fields, and the cloud forest that lies between them and the still warm cone of the volcano. In 2003 Los Andes was selected by The Nature Conservancy as one of its pilot projects in the Atitlán area to develop a sustainable ecological management program that guides conservation efforts into the future.

Guatemala City

Merce R. Romero

Location

113

R. Fernandez Ravelo

BIRDS

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Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

Visited by birders and conservation scientists from around the world, Los Andes is part of one of the first cloud forests dedicated to the protection of the Resplendent Quetzal. Los Andes is also home to the rare Cabanis Tanager, whose distribution is limited from the east of Chiapas to the west of Guatemala along the Pacific watershed. Other species including King Vulture, Crested Caracara, Emerald Toucanet, Mountain Trogon and Common Bush-tanager, Green-throated Mountain-gem, Blue-throated Motmot, White-throated Magpie-jay, Spotbreasted Oriole, Baltimore Oriole, Orchard Oriole, Red-legged Honeycreepers.You will also see hummingbirds such as the Rufous Sabrewing and the Violet Sabrewing, Azurecrowned Hummingbird and the Berylline Hummingbird and the Berylline Hummingbird.

R. Fernandez Ravelo

FINCA LOS ANDES

40 species of mammals are present at the reserve.The main group belongs to Chiroptera orden, followed by Rodents and Carnivores. Among the others: Red Brocket, Grey Fox, Puma, JaguarJaguarundi and Ocelot. Among the Amphibian species living in the reserve, Craugastor rodophis and Craugastor rupinius state that the Coffee coltivation is good. Others are: Craugastor loki, Craugastor stuarti , Lepdactylus fragilis, Dermophis mexicana, Lithobates maculatus, Agalychnis moreletii, Plectrohyla matudai, Duellmanohyla schmidtorum, Plectrohyla avia, Ptychohyla euthysanota and a new salamander species belonging to Oedipina that has not been classified. Among reptiles, Anolis dollfusianus, Ameiva ondulata, Sphenomorphus assatus, Adelphicus sargii, Coniophanes fissidens, Geophis nasalis,Tropidodipsas fischeri, Ninia sebae, Imantodes cenchoa, Drymobius margaritiferu, Leptodeira septentrionalis, Pliocercus elapoides and the poisonous Micrurus nigrocinctus. Around the areas, woods act as a shelter for protected species. Quercus skinneri, Brosimun costaricanum and Elaeodendron trichotomum.

Merce R. Romero

M. R. Romero

M. Biasioli

OTHER WILDLIFE

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Arch. Los Andes

THE LODGE

116

Built in the 1950´s, the “Casa Oliver” at Los Andes welcomes guests that stay at the nature reserve. Enjoy an early morning walk through the surrounding gardens with stunning views of the Atitlán volcano to the north and the Pacific plains towards the south. Have fun watching the hummingbirds as they zoom back and forth or dive into the spring fed swimming pool. The house was built by british Mark and Helen Oliver, who loved Guatemala and spent much of their time at Los Andes. The Olivers were pioneer conservationist and innovators. They started the first association for the protection of the Quetzal bird and built a hydroelectric plant that generates clean renewable energy. All rooms have private WC with showers and hot water. Meals are prepared using mostly local ingredients and cooked on a traditional wood stove.

Agricultural production at Los Andes supports the voluntary conservation initiatives. Cultivated areas alternate with native forests that are of particular importance, since they shelter animals and plants found nowhere else in Guatemala. Agricultural processes are done following ecological guidelines that are friendly with the environment. The abundant water at Los Andes allows to generate clean energy through a hidroelectric. Los Andes is one of those unique places in the world where coffee and tea grow on the same estate. Coffee has been grown in Los Andes for more than a hundred years.The Arabica coffee varieties planted include Caturra, Catuai, Java, Bourbon, Geisha and Villasarchi. All the coffee pulp and mucilage are used to produce organic fertilizer. Effective microorganisms (EM) and earthworms are used in this process. There is a laboratory for biological pest control. Products are sprayed with extract from the organic fertilizer, to help with the nutrition and as a natural fungicide.You can visit the coffee and tea plantations and get to know all about the processing. Quinine, macadamia and avocados are also grown here. Los Andes is a property where conservation, people and economics are working together for creating quality of life. For more than three generations several families have lived and worked in this property. During the 70Â´s and 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, many communities were highly affected by a civil war that took place in the country. Management of Los Andes company has worked together with local families for the past two decades to help them create a better standard of life by implementing innovative educational programs and establishing their own solidarity organization offering a savings and loan system.The company put up seed capital and gave them a building for their own store. Every year they elect a board of directors and distribute earnings. This has created a team-work culture where families learn to be entrepreneurs and creators of a better standard of life, as well as pro-active participants in conservation and production programs together with the property. Health and educational programs are supervised by FUNCAFE and AGROSALUD organizations.

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FINCA LOS ANDES

M. Biasioli

Arch. Los Andes

Merce R. Romero

FARM & COMMUNITY

In collaboration with:

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Merce R. Romero

The Green Caribbean

Opening March 2019

Contacts

3 Photo Hides 800 Hectars

Flores

Closest Airports

Puerto Barrios

Puerto Barrios (0,5 h.) Guatemala City (4/5 h.)

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

The GuatemalaÂ´s Caribbean Rainforest Biological Corridor- is one of the world richest and most bio-diverse ecosystems in the world, securing ecological connectivity between Belize and Honduras, along the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. A network of 11 Protected Areas that stretch across the region and protect the reefs, mangroves, wetlands, rainforests and cloud forests that bless this beautiful land. The Green Caribbean is a unique network of Ecotourism Sites located within Caribbean GuatemalaÂ´s Protected Areas, designated for the photography industry with specific activities and authentic experiences, not crowded within a natural environment lavish on biological diversity and rich in information, developed through years of direct work in the region, its ecosystems and its host communities. With 504 species of Birds, and more than 160 species of Mammals, the Green Carribean region is waiting to be discovered! Its varied and exuberant vegetation produces and maintains important aquifer sources home to 61% of mammals (160 sp.), 54% of vertebrate species (768 sp.), 56% of amphibians (57 sp.), 50% of reptiles (90 sp.). All of THE GREEN CARIBBEAN nature land sites and coastal-marine products offers unique destinations that ensure biodiversity protection, environmental interpretation, and community participation and access to benefits, while at the same time ensuring the provision of high quality services for professional photography.

GUATEMALA Quetzaltenango

Caribbean Reserves Guatemala City

Arch. Fundaeco

Opening period

Features

Arch. Fundaeco

Guatamala Caribbean Coast Puerto Barrios

Arch. Fundaeco

Location

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BIRDS

The avifauna of the Guatemalan Caribbean Coast is the richest and most diverse in the country.The studies carried out in the region have detected 48 families, 504 resident and migratory species that represent more than 70% of the total bird species of Guatemala.

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Merce R. Romero

A. Novales

M. Biasioli

A. Novales

M. Valentini

Of the 504 species of birds, 11 are regional endemics.These forests are an important migratory corridor: more than 90 migratory species use them as hibernation or resting sites. Among the most interesting species there are: Collared Aracari, Emerald Toucanet, Keel-billed Toucan, Ringed Kingfisher, Long-tailed Hermit, Brown Violet-Ear, Montezuma oropendola, Slaty-tailed Trogon, Osprey, Solitary Eagle,Tody Motmot, Lessonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Motmot, Magnificent Frigatebird, Bluefooted Booby, Red-footed Booby, Crowned Woodnymph,Vireo pallens,Little Blue Heron, Great Blue Heron, White Ibis, Brown Pelican, Lovely Cotinga, Mealy Parrot, Jacana Spinosa.

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THE GREEN CARIBBEAN

A. Novales

The Green Caribbean as a region sustains a large number of endemic mammals worldwide with more than 160 species. Species threatened worldwide: as ocelote and jaguar, termite bear, armadillos, manatee, bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles (all the emblematic species of the tropical rainforest and the coral reef system!) The Green Caribbean is characterized by the production of water sources, genetic resources and the varied animal and plant diversity it harbors. Within all this wealth stand out as a group the amphibians. The Region has a diversity of stunning salamanders and beautiful frogs nationally and globally threatened: Bolitoglossa odonnelli, Bolitoglossa dunni, Agalychnis moreleti, Bromeliohyla bromeliacia, Duellmanohyla soralia, Bolitoglossa Mexicana y Bolitoglossa rufescen. Five critically endangered species of amphibians are reported: Agalychnis moreletii, Duellmanohyla soralia, Nototriton brodiei and Cryptotriton wakei. Look for the -Corytophanes- species of lizard endemic to the New World. This variety of ecosystems is reflected in the studies of specialists Entomologists in insects, nocturnal /diurnal butterflies and invertebrates, among hundreds we can mentioned some: Adeloneivaia jason, Dysschema urioides, Evius hippia, Pachylioides abstracts, Phillophyllia guttulata, Xylophanes zurcheri, Letis hypnois, Madoryx plutonius, Napata walkeri, Automeris zozine, Dysdaemonia boreas, Enyo ocypete.

A. Novales

Arch. Fundaeco

OTHER WILDLIFE

Arch. Fundaeco

PHOTOGRAPHY

Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

Arch. Fundaeco

Merce R. Romero

We have been developing 3 different areas, from the Northern border of the country to the Caribbean sea and its surroundings. Consequently, there will be a high number of hides dedicated to the most emblematic species of this country. Las Escobas with its pure forests and natural pools will be the background of special artificial sceneries dedicated to macro photography. On the other hand, in Rio Sarstun, where there is already a biological station, the target species will be Orioles and Tucanoes, and in Insinada Verde with a special Forest Tower Hide for Motmot and many passerines. However, the real treat of this area is the Caribbean Sea. We wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lose the occasion to discover it and its pelagic species, as it is still not enough what we know about them.

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THE CARIBBEAN Because of the region´s unique natural beauty, PROTECTED AREAS ARE AT THE CENTER OF THE REGION´S IDENTITY AND AT THE CORE OF PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT stretch from high mountaintops to the green waters of its Caribbean estuaries. The Green Caribbean supports nature conservation and biodiversity protection, increases environmental awareness, supports sustainable development, enforces of local environmental regulations as sites and products requires strong environmental compliance across the supply chain

THE GREEN CARIBBEAN Arch. Fundaeco

M. Biasioli

Arch. Fundaeco

In order to support the development of Caribbean Guatemala as a unique destination for professional photography, we are offering new sites introducing hide photography attractions in our premier sites and oceanic/pelagic photography activities with subaquatic photography as you snorkel the coral reef.

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In collaboration with:

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M. Biasioli

The Bagh - Bharatpur

Opening period

Closest Airports

Contacts

Accommodation

All year round

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Jaipur

Keololeo National Park

The Bagh Reserve

New Delhi (4,5h.)

In the Reserve there is a lodge with 30 rooms

Bharatpur, Rajasthan is nestled in verdant countryside 200km form New Delhi, the capital of India. Located on the eastern border of Rajasthan, Bharatpur is known as Lohagarh, the Iron Fort, after the famed independence and ferocity of the local rulers. An exciting immersion into the habitat of the Indo-Gangetic plain this adventure will enable you to explore incredible birds up close at The Bagh, a heritage garden, as well as explore one of the most famed birdwatching sites in the world, Keoladeo Ghana National Park, a Unesco and Ramsar wetland site. Dedicated hides throughout The Bagh using traditional ‘Pattor’ construction allow a traditional and authentic professional photographic hide experience.The strategic heritage design of the property, plantations ensuring fruit and flowers throughout the changing seasons, along with the rich habitat, offers incredible photographic encounters.The Bagh’s strategic locations means that you are able to visit and explore diverse sectors of Keoladeo National Park remote and its large expanse of water bodies. The Bagh offers an authentic interface with nature where you may taste the local cuisine, relax in tranquility, and explore on foot accompanied or alone, each corner revealing hidden natural treasures.The ultimate purpose of a journey is to discover oneself among signboards, cultures and importantly natural habitat and wildlife. Some realize this consciously while others just make them a part of their memories.We curate this experience for your passage to India to position for the best opportunity to capture on camera the most brilliant indigenous birds and animals in their natural habitat..

Agra

Kanha Tiger Reserve

INDIA Nagpur

Calcutta Raipur

Mumbai

A. Khan

7 Photo Hides 7 Hectars

A. Khan

Bharatpur - Rajastan India

New Delhi

Features

A. Khan

Location

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Arch. EJG Arch. EJG

Arch. EJG

The Bagh is a two hundred year-old CharBagh or four-part garden in Bharatpur Rajasthan, located just four hours away from major destinations such as Delhi, Jaipur and Gwalior. The Bagh offers visitors an opportunity to experience quiet luxury near Keoladeo Ghana National Park, one of the most famous bird sanctuaries in the world. The hotelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rooms are located in various residential complexes spread throughout the gardens. The Bagh in itself is a great place for birding. In its 200 year old garden an equal number of bird species have been recorded so far. To maximize bird photography opportunities, photography hides have been installed in different habitats of the property. They are built with variable capacity for 2 to 8 people out of the most traditional construction, along with nocturnal photographic locations. With rooms spread throughout the estate dotted amongst the beauty of the flora and fauna, you can spot over a dozen species from your room, blending in elements of modern comfort in a nature retreat. There is another side to the hotel that is surrounded by organic farms and luscious greens â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the farm wing where produce is grown for serving in the restaurant, as well as lawns and open courtyards to sit and enjoy the nature around.

Arch. EJG

THE LODGE

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M. Biasioli

The Keoladeo National Park is undoubtedly a magical place full of photographic opportunities all year long. Whether it is nesting season or wintering or migrating period, it is extremely easy to photograph many species of birds. Thanks to special bikes guidade by excellent guides, it is easy to walk the main roads of the park in search of the best shots. However, the National Park is a public place that can be visited all year long; so to offer you an exclusive experience, we have built in the property many last generation hides where from you will be able to photograph all those species that are very difficult to meet or approach in the park. Among these, there is a night hide and several drinking hides dedicated todifferent species of Passerins. With these possibilities you can alternate during your visit to the national park excursions in external areas to find concrete species like Indian Courses or Black Bittern, and photographic sessions in the hides just a few steps from your rooms to be able to enjoy a complete and, at the same time, a relaxing experience.

M. Biasioli

A. Khan

THE BAGH - BHARATPUR

M. Biasioli

A. Khan

PHOTOGRAPHY

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M. Premoli

A. Khan

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M. Biasioli

A. Khan A. Khan

Around 11 sq. km Area of Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) is covered with water, the extent and volume depending on the intensity of the rains.The remaining portion is rich with Kingfisher, Red Vented and white cheeked Bulbuls, Babblers, Quails, Partridges, Sun Birds, Sparrows, Parakeets and Orioles which live in bushes and burrows. This dry area is covered in dry deciduous forests including Acacia, Ber, Kadam, Khajur trees and extensive grasslands. On the raised group outlining the wetlands grow a profusion of Acacia trees, where the resident water birds nest, often in large mixed colonies, a spectacular sight during the monsoon. When assured of enough food, hundreds of large, medium and little Cormorant,

A. Khan

M. Biasioli

BIRDS

Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

THE BAGH - BHARATPUR

Darter, Purple and Grey Heron, various species of Egret, Painted, Open-Billed, White-Necked and Black-necked stork, White Ibis, Spoonbill, Night Heron and other birds get busy in courting and mating. The trees are overflowing with nests, one can observe a tree housing nests with up to fifty and sixty in number belonging to different species of birds looking after their loved young ones.The nests on the trees look like pearl necklaces. Gracious Saras cranes, the tallest flight birds nest in exposed and open areas, both partners share the duty of hatching: while changing incubating duties they come together, raise their neck, and give out shrill trumpetic calls in unison and at the same time fan their feathers. The story of Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is incomplete without an account of the migratory waterfowl. More than 20 species of Duck, the most prominent waterfowl coming to this park are Bar Headed and Greylag Geese; ducks also create a lot of fluttering in the lakes.The ducks usually found here are Pintail, Widgeon, Common Shelduck, Shoveler, Garganey, and Teal. Attracted by the influx of the waterfowl, the predatory birds:Tawny Eagles, Spotted Eagles, Short-toed Eagles, Imperial Eagles and Fishing Eagles also arrive.They all form the apex of the biological pyramid of the sanctuary and complete the avian food chain of the ecosystem. After birding in Keoladeo National Park, Bharatpur, a quiet afternoon of studying natural history and ornithology awaits in The Baghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive library, as well as birding within the The Bagh estate on foot or in the hides. With over fifty species of flora, including fruiting trees and flowering plants which attract birds, small animals and insects, guests can enjoy quiet walks in the garden and commune with nature.The handsome buildings made in local stones are designed to merge with their natural surroundings. A stroll through the Baghâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden and buildings leads a visitor through the realms of nature and art.

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A. Khan A. Khan A. Khan

A. Khan

As vehicles are only permitted up to Shanti Kutir inside the park the best way to explore Keoladeo National Park (Bharatpur) is on foot or bicycles or cycle rickshaw, or a quiet ride by boat in the early hours of the morning is also unforgettable experience; which allows an undisturbed and autonomous experience in the exploration of wildlife in the park. The cacophony is unbelievable as painted storks, open bills, Spoonbills, Egrets, Cormorants, White Ibis and multitudes of others, tend their young. Jacanas with their iridescent colours and elegant tail feathers can be seen delicately treading over the floating vegetation. The animal populace also show their presence although they are thoroughly dominated by feathers, wings and beaks.Your are likely to encounter Black Buck, Sambhar (the largest Indian Antelope), Spotted deer and Nilgais, Chital, Wild boar, Small Indian Civet, Common Palm Civet. It is also an excellent place to watch mammals like Golden Jackal, Striped Hyena, Fishing Cat, Jungle Cat, whilst Indian Rock Pythons can occasionally be seen sunning

OTHER WILDLIFE

A. Khan

THE BAGH - BHARATPUR

A. Khan

Merce R. Romero

A. Khan

themselves.The Five-striped Palm Squirrel is ubiquitous, and both the Common and Small Indian Mongoose are likely along the bunds. The Smooth Indian Otter may turn up on any marsh, Jackals are common and can usually be heard, whilst the Indian Porcupine is not uncommon.

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In collaboration with:

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M. Biasioli

The Baagh -Kanha NP

Location

Kanha N.P. Madhya Pradesh - India

New Delhi

Features

Jaipur

4 Photo Hides 6 Hectars

Keololeo National Park

Opening period

Closest Airports

Contacts

Accommodation

All year round

info@skuanature.com +39 0141-918403

Agra

Kanha Tiger Reserve

Raipur (4 h.)

In the Reserve there is a lodge with 24 rooms

Nagpur

Mumbai

Calcutta Raipur

The Bagh Kanha Reserve

Merce R. Romero A. Khan

M. Biasioli

Kanha is situated amongst the pristine rolling Maikal hills and tribal belt in the heart of India. Located on the eastern border of Madhya Pradesh, the ‘central state’, Kanha is well know for the virgin primary forest habitat, vibrant wildlife, tribal belt and and rich natural environs, serving as inspiration for Rudyard Kipling’s classic, the “Jungle Book”. An adventure into this virgin habitat of Kanha this field sortie will enable you to explore incredible birds and mammals up close at The Bagh, and Kanha National Park, as well as explore one of the most rural and picturesque landscapes of India. Dedicated hides throughout The Bagh using traditional construction allow a traditional and authentic professional photographic hide experience.The strategic design of the property, groves and plantations, overlooking water bodies, with multitudes of walks throughout the estate along with the rich habitat, offers incredible photographic encounters.The Bagh’s strategic locations means that you are also able to visit and explore diverse sectors of Kanha National Park, connected protected habitats, to give a varied and exceptional birdwatching, wildlife and mammal viewing and photographic experience.The Bagh offers an authentic interface with both the local nature and peoples where you may taste the local flavours, witness traditional villages, relax in the wild and explore on foot hidden corners revealing treasures.The ultimate purpose of a journey is to discover oneself among signboards, cultures and importantly natural habitat and wildlife. Some realize this consciously while others just make them a part of their memories. We curate this experience for your passage to India to position for the best opportunity to capture on camera the most brilliant indigenous birds, animals in their natural habitat, along with traditional tribal culture.

INDIA

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Arch. EHG

Arch. EHG Arch. EHG

The Bagh, Kanha is a rural, forest retreat in the heart of central India where tigers roam in the jungle and fields of yellow mustard sway in the sunlight. The Bagh is nestled in the heart of the rolling Maikal hills, a picturesque belt of villages that are set around the great Kanha National Park which is one of the largest Sal forests to be inhabited by such a diversity of large and small animal and bird life. Arriving at the retreat you first cross the threshold of an old traditional mud farm home, a blue wattleand-daub exterior, and then move into the expanse of The Bagh. The slightly elevated restaurant dining terraces are tranquil and open perch from which to gaze at the gardens and observe. The Bagh’s landscape has hundreds of fruiting trees and many vegetables, which are used in the restaurant’s kitchen. There are over 20,00 fruit and flowering trees spread across the resort’s estate that surround the cottages for guest accommodation. Each of the 24 rooms in cottages are well-appointed with open terraces facing towards the garden and the lake. Marble clad bathrooms and sumptuous beds are welcome comforts that soothe the guest after a day of exploring nature.

Arch. EHG

M. Biasioli

Arch. EHG

THE LODGE

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PHOTOGRAPHY

M. Biasioli M. Biasioli

THE BAGH - KANHA

M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli M. Biasioli

The visit inside the National Park of Kanha is regulated and it is possible to make safari for groups of closed number of about 4-5 hours in the morning and in the afternoon but without being able to remain within the protected area. The development of photographic hides also within our area will allow you to alternate visits to the park with photographic sessions from the hides, or simply to use them in the hours of pause between one safari and another. We have created the conditions to offer you the utmost freedom to dedicate yourself to your passion while enjoying your stay. Also very interesting are the escursions in the areas surrounding the lodge where you can visit the small rural villages full of photographic, landscape and anthropological opportunities, as well as the night safaris in search of mammals and nocturnal birds.

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Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

A. Khan

M. Biasioli

A. Khan

M. Biasioli

BIRDS

M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli L. Zuntini M. Biasioli

M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

THE BAGH - KANHA

Conveniently located towards Mukki Gate, which is the quieter side of Kanha National Park, along with tigers there are wonderful cheetal, sambar deer, nilgai and birds such as the crested hawk eagle, vultures and painted francolin. Phen Sanctuary, known for leopard sightings, is also nearby and is an annexe of Kanha National Park featuring luscious vegetation and rugged terrain.The Bagh offers you Jungle safaris into the deep forests of Kanha.There are sometimes two jeep tours every day into Kanha National Park and surrounding areas. It is amongst the top tiger reserves in India with a good tiger density and common sitings.The length of each safari varies between 3 to 5 hours, depending on the time of year.The forests are dominated by Sal and Bamboo, good for species such as White-naped Woodpecker, Red Junglefowl, Painted Spurfowl.The habitat is enriched by riverine forest, open grasslands and marshy areas where lesser Adjutants in small numbers - however here are more 300 bird species on the parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s list. Some good birds include Tickles Thrush, Black Backed woodpecker, Black Ibis, Jungle Owlet, Blue Bearded Bee-eater, Crested Bunting, Mottled Wood Owl can be seen, as well as Painted Partridge, Shaheen Falcon and Golden Oriole.

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M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

The 1005 square kilometer park is home to most diverse flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, jackal, wild dogs, Indian Bison, wild pigs, monkeys, many varieties of deer, and innumerable birds. It is an amazing and delicate ecosystem that requires constant monitoring to sustain and maintain its endangered species. The chances of seeing a Tiger are relatively good, as there are healthy numbers of the Tiger, which may be seen during the day, and is one of the best places left to see them. Kanha has two main valleys, Halon in the East, Banjar in the West, and the grassy ‘maidans’ dotted with clumps of forest, harbour large numbers of herbivores.The hills often support sizeable plateaus ‘dadars’ and are characterised by extensive grasslands and scant trees.These ‘dadars’ are much favoured by Gaur and Four-horned antelope.The forests are deciduous, the main tree being the Sal, and there are large stands of bamboo. Higher up the slopes the forests tend to become dense and mixed with Haldu and Bija trees.The Tiger’s main prey are chital, which are abundant, but you should also see Grey Langur, Flying Fox, Sambar, Muntjac and Wild Boar. Rhesus Macaques, Nilgai, Chinkara, Jackal, Jungle Cat and Ruddy and Common Mongoose can be seen and there is a possibility of Leopard, Gaur, Sloth Bear, Black-naped Hare, Indian Fox, Wolf and Dhole. More difficult are Small Indian Civet, India Porcupine, Honeybadger and Four Horned Antelope, whereas scales are usually the only trace found of the Indian Pangolin.

M. Valentini

THE BAGH - KANHA

Merce R. Romero

A. Khan

C. Galliani

A. Khan

Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

Merce R. Romero

OTHER WILDLIFE

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NATURE CONSERVATION SKUA Nature is a private company with unique characteristics. The team is made up highly motivated naturalists, who strongly believe that the worldwide projects carried on by SKUA can give important contributions to nature conservancy, through concrete actions and by raising money for local research studies and actions. In all the reserves we develop, we activate actions dedicated to nature conservancy and biodiversity studies using funds coming from nature tourism activities and in collaboration with various public or private organizations from all over the world. We have proved, in these last few years, that if the work is done fully respecting all different habitats and species ecology, and adopting dedicated actions to improve feeding, stop over or breeding sites, the results are immediate and positive also for rare or very localized species. And so our many Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hides and reserves in many different countries all over the world indeed broadens the range of opportunities and create an ever-growing laboratory on the relation between nature and human activities.

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M. Premoli

M. Biasioli

GUATEMALA

Las Guacamayas

Arch. EBG M. Premoli

Arch. EBG

Working outside Europe means facing extremely difficult and complex problems regarding conservation. One of these issues is deforestation that increasingly affects large areas of Latin America to make room for crops and especially grasslands for cattle grazing. It is in these places that presidium such as the biological station Las Guacamayas become real garrisons for the conservation of primary forests and for the mitigation with local realities about the aggression towards natural spaces.These are clearly problems that are impossibleto solve for small entities like ours.The Las Guacamayas reserve is therefore of strategic importance for the maintenance of one of the most important natural corridors of the Guatemalan wilderness. And only thanks to the economic sustainability of the place will it be possible to ensure that this garrison can remain active in the future.The role of SKUA Nature will therefore be to develop all

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the strategies necessary to obtain the economic resources necessary to pay for the maintenance of the structures, vehicles and personnel that live and supervise on the spot, trying to obtain benefits to reinvest in conservation.

EBG

Year 2000

On the left you can see how deforestation from 2000 to 2016 has practically devoured the entire surface of the Laguna del Tigre National Park where only the territory of the biological station managed to stop this process triggered mostly by a growing increase in population and the devastation caused by the â&#x20AC;&#x153;narco ganaderoâ&#x20AC;?.The primary and secondary forest that still holds the biological station is currently one of the most strategic points of the entire area as a biological corridor. The image below shows from the satellite how the agricultural areas have penetrated even in extremely remote areas, transforming the hills into cultivated fields or grasslands. In the center of the photo you can see the boundary of the biological station Las Guacamayas and the devastation for now controlled thanks to the garrison of the area on the right.

EBG

Merce R. Romero

Year 2016

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C. Galliani

M. Biasioli

M. Premoli

ITALY

144

Po River & Ricefields This is our first reseve development in collaboration with a public company. Located in a area extremely devastated by intensive agricultural activities, the park preserves river Po and its banks for more than 90 kilometres. In addition, the park manages some isolated areas that, due to their small dimensions, need constant cares dedicated to their habitats conservation. These expensive activities need specialized staff and tools, that are not easy to be found in protected areas due to lack of money. For this reason, in 2012, we decided to develop a pioneeristic project with a coorporate company, for the purpose of preserving this area extremely delicate biotope by introducing new activities. The contruction of dedicated hides allowed to gain some funds coming from a low and controlled number of visitors compared to more usual activities, like school or group excursions that could disturb the local fauna. Some hides have been buildt close to reed beds and wetlands, bringing the degrading surrounding environment to optimal levels. During this time we have realized how species like Bittern, Purple Heron and Marsh Harrier got benefits from these improvements: they started breeding again close to hides, in areas that were getting woody again. Our activity allowed a daily control of the area, reducing vandalism. In addition, a percentage of the raised funds is used for the maintenance of the paths, the structures (in general, the entire areas), giving to the park a great support for the management and preservation of these areas.

C. Galliani

Restoration activities of the last years include the placement of tens of bat boxes, restoration of reed beds and woods, as well as the naturalistic and safety control of the areas. Last winter, basing on the past positive experiences, we decided to build a new hide inside a Purple Heron important colony for the purpose of offering a unique experience that could improve visits to the area without disturbing and compromising the tranquillity and safety of the colony. As all experiments, risk was high and critics have arrived from the beginning but reality demonstrated that it is possible to work in limit considitions getting good results if competence and knowledge are present. This hide gives a great view of Purple Heron (and Bittern, Little Bittern, Marsh Harrier and Knith Heron) habits and represents a great support for the study of the behaviour of the animals during the breeding period. At the beginning of Spring all Herons colonized the area without caring about the hide because it is completely sheltered and not visible.We even noticed an increment of the number of nests. Tens of visitors have been able to live a unique experience in contact with such an emblematic species in one of its life most delicate moments.Being aware that photographing nesting is not to be promoted, we can demonstrate that, collaborating with preservation institutions, it is possible to reach almost utopian results fully respecting birds and their habitat and gaining funds that can be used for the management of the area. species. And so our Networkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hides and reserves indeed broadens the range of opportunities and create an ever-growing laboratory on the relation between nature and human activities.

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ITALY

Cascina Spinola

Summer 2017 146

F. Rovedo

Winter 2016/2017

F. Rovedo

Arch. Cascina Spinola

M. Biasioli

F. Pino

This is certainly the biggest environmental rehabilitation project developed by our company. Cascina Spinola used to be an agricultural desert and has been drastically turned into a naturalistic oasis with a great strategic importance as many species of birds (and not only them) stop-over during migration and nest. Works started in winter 2006 in a private estate.The intensive rice farming areas have been turned into permanent wetlands with different water levels. For the purpose of producing as many habitats as possible, we have created deep ponds, drains, flooded meadows and dry islands. Hundreds of plants among shrubs, trees and aquatic plants have been digged-in. Paths are sheltered by plants, not to disturb animals. Latest generation dedicated hides offer great photographic opportunities and photographers appeciated this place from the beginning. The project is aimed to enhance these lands originally destinated to agriculture by creating natural areas which have a high potential in terms of nature tourism and can guarantee to the farm higher benefits respect to what traditional agricultural production could ensure. From the first year, we can valuate if the way we have taken is the right one in terms of species conservation and benefits, as preservation of the area and thinking about any future development.

Summer 2016

F. Rovedo

M. Biasioli

S. Stignani

The explosion of biodiversity has been visible from the beginning at Cascina Spinola, with monthly naturalistic remarks. Migration of many species of waders, Ruff in particular, is a key feature of this estate. Black-Winged Stilts and Black Terns nest here. Not far from the reserve, there is a nesting population of Black-Winged Godwit, unique in all Italy. From the beginning, we started working on the creation of the perfect habitat for this species preparing a safe and suitable area. From Spring 2017 we have been introducing artificial platforms for Sterne, bat boxes and nest boxes for Barn Owls. This is only the beginning. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been working on species like Emys orbicularis, Water Vole and Herons.

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M. Biasioli

L. Boscain

L. Berti

ROMANIA

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Ultima Frontiera Without any doubt, Ultima Frontiera is a real example of how big areas can be managed exclusively through nature tourism. Theory turns into practice and we are extremely proud of current and future results. After only five years from the construction of the hides and all the necessary features, this 1000 hectares high-maintenance paradise estate is giving real profits that can guarantee its future and the possibility to eliminate affecting activities like Fishing and Hunting. Not only this, benefits can be turned into conservation actions focused on some critical species. From 2015 up today, every year we place new nest boxes dedicated to different species like Roller, Hopooe and Red-Footed Falcon and we recover and manage habitats like meadows and reeds by mowing, controlled flame weeding and superficial ploughing for species like Forapaglie castagnolo, Basettino and Schiribilla. By ploughing the soil we create new wet areas and partitions suitable for the nesting of Kingfishers and Bee-eaters and by additional feeding programs we help the reproduction of White-Tailed Eagles whose number of individuals has increased by 200% in the last 5 years. Many research programs related to Ethology, interaction among species and Golden Jackal spatial distribution have been activated thanks to the help of volunteers, University students and professional researchers. The idea of nature tourism as real motion for the purpose of active nature conservation is now a reality and allows us to look further and further.

M. Biasioli

L. Zuntini M. Premoli

We are scheduling new activities, starting from Winter 2017, like the construction of artificial platforms for Dalmatian Pelican nesting, the preservation of species like Pratincole and other waders and the increment of the number of nest boxes dedicated to Red-Footed Falcon and Roller.

M. R. Romero

M. Ferrari

Thanks to the construction of a biological station, we will be able to guarantee a support to students and researchers for new studies on the local fauna.

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M. Premoli

DEVELOPMENT OF ECONOMICAL TOOLS FOR PRIORITY SPECIES Along 2018, in collaboration with “Associazione Codibugnolo” in Isola Sant Antonio (Piedmont - italy), we have turned an old observation hide into a photo hide in one of the Po and Orba protected areas, where the Eurasian Thick-Knee has been nesting for several years. Unfortunately, before the starting of this collaboration, the economical resources were not enough to cover the costs of the maintenance necessary to make the area suitable for these species breeding.Thanks to our support and the incomes coming from nature photography, it has been possible to get enough funds for the future.

M. Biasioli

NEW COLONIES FOR BATS Thanks to the contribution of Terna SPA and Schwegler / Natur Protection we have installed tens of bat-boxes in the reserves of Palude di San Genuario and Fontana Gigante, as well as on many high voltage pylons in the middle of rice fields: our goal is to increase the breeding and wintering sites for bats in an area hevaily compromised by intensive agriculture. A research on this topic has started, in order to survey the area and assess the result of this project.

E. Bosch

M. Premoli

ARTIFICIAL PLATFORMS FOR TERNS At Cascina Spinola, Po River & Ricefields Reserves and Ultima Frontiera we have erected artificial platforms dedicated to Common Terns and Little Terns. Some of these structures have already given positive results. Black-Headed Gull, Black Tern and Whiskered Tern have been already breeding on artificial dry islands and floating vegetation islands we have created. A NEST NEXT TO THE HIDE In all our Network’s reserves, when we build new photo hides we always pay particular attention not to build them close to nests, colonies, or sensitive areas. But our job consists also in restoring and improving the areas around the hides, in order to make them more interesting for birds. The results we have obtained in just a couple of years are incredible: rare species like Bittern, Black winged Stilt, Avocet, Little Crake, Western Marsh Harrier and others, have started to breed (often for the first time inside the reserves) in front of the hides or in their immediate vicinity.

M. Biasioli

NEW EARTHEN WALLS FOR BEE EATERS In the Parco del Po we have been working for three years now, each spring, for restoring, cleaning or creating new earthen walls for Bee eaters. These actions are made inside quarries where gravel is digged for, thanks to special agreements made with the local mining companies and the Park administration: year by year, we locate the more suitable areas for bee eaters , we stop the works in that particular area for the breeding season and we optimize the area for their needs.

M. Premoli M. De Silvi

REED BEDS RESTORATION AND MANAGEMENT

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In some reserves, like Po River ricefields, Cascina Spinola and Ultima Frontiera, in wintertime, every year, we work to improve management of reed beds for the purpose of preserve specific species like Bittern, Little Bittern, Marsh Harrier, Purple Heron, Little and Spotted Crake and different passerines like Bearded Tit and Mustache Warbler.These activities include also more extensive methods like controlled flame weeding are used to favour plants like Typha latifolia,Typha angustifolia, Cladium mariscus and Juncus.

Merce R. Romero

NEW QUETZAL NESTBOXES We have just started to develop Los Andes estate, territory chosen by the magnificient Quetzal for its breeding and nesting, but we have already planned to build and place several nestboxes in the secondary forest around the estate, in order to improve the number of individuals of this beautiful species, symbol of this country.

ADDITIONAL FOOD FOR VULTURES AND KITES

Merce R. Romero

M. Biasioli

A. Mancuso

In Spain (in the reserves of La Parrilla and Las Vinas) and in Italy (in Wild Lucania reserve), we run important feeding points for scavenger birds, which offer fantastic photo opportunities as well as a precious additional constant food source for protected species such as Egyptian and Cinereous Vultures, and Red Kites. The current management of the carcasses in the large breeding farms has caused a lot of problems in these last years for these species: a general lack of food, the use of antiinflammatories which are lethal for raptors and a growing competition with the more adaptable and widespread Griffon Vulture, have made necessary the launch of dedicated projects in order to ensure an important and safe controlled food supply.

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OUR RULES

Helping nature conservation means also following some good practices and habits when exploring and living the natural environment. Because of that, in addition to concrete actions to increase and conserve biodiversity, we do also invest time and resources to costantly improve our working system and most of all to help our clients to reach the best ethical standards. Our dispositions are very serious and include some fundamental rules that we do use and apply in every situation where we work. ENVIRONMENTALLY-FRIENDLY FACILITIES

C. Romano

Wherever itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible we create and build hides and facilities that have a low environmental impact using natural local materials and taking into consideration also aspects as comfort and efficacy. In almost every situation itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to avoid the use of concrete, therefore reaching an almost zero impact on the territory. PERIODICITY

M. Biasioli

Depending on the areas where we work and on the phenology of the species, we decide the best period when we can work to construct or modify facilities avoiding to disturb animals. Moreover field-works are reduced to a minimum as we do prepar ex-situ the majority of the hides.

Some species are not disturbed by the shooting noise of a camera or by a sudden movement of a wooden window, however we do prefer to use reflecting glasses in almost all the situations, to avoid any bother and guarantee to photographers closer pictures of animals in a more natural behaviour.

M. Andreini

GLASSES

Thanks to the support of Daniel Steenhaut, a series of very nice comics are available to inform people that use hides about the most common wrong habits. A funny but efficient way to inform our clients and make them feel responsible, but also to give advices on what should not be done in order to get the best photographic opportunities.

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P. Dieudonne

RULES AND COMMUNICATION

In collaboration with:

www.daniel-steenhaut.be

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BE A PART OF THE NETWORK

Our Network regularly adds new reserves and nature areas, that we carefully select among the several proposals of collaboration that we receive, on a weekly basis, from landowners or public institutions from all over the world. Our idea to develop exclusive reserves entirely dedicated to nature tourism has proved to be a successful project, as it allows nature areas, private or public, to have a specific connotation and become points of reference for this kind of responsible and respectful tourism. Networking indeed is the best way for a project to be successful and it leads to several other opportunities in terms of international collaborations.

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M. Biasioli

The SKUA team is composed of more than 25 people among which there are technicians, hide-keepers, reserve’s coordinators, photographers and biologists. Our team share a strong passion for nature, its conservation and communication. We have chosen an ambitious and not trouble-free project to develop, in which we strongly believe, and our work in these years has proved that with such a motivated and dynamic team even the most unimaginable aims can be achieved.

OUR TEAM SKUA Assistant Director

PAOLO FUMAGALLI Technical Department Chief

MERCE R. ROMERO Iberia Coordinator Photographer & Photo Scauter

FRANCESCO ROVEDO Ultima Frontiera Coordinator

TERESA ROCCHI Logistic & Operations

NICOLA SCATASSI International Projects & Guide

ANDREA MAESTRI Vercelli’s Reserve Coordinator

GUIDO BISSATTINI La Mandria Reserve Coordinator

SARA GENOVESE General Coordinator Logistic & Operations

DOBROMIR DOMUSKIEV Executive Director

PAOLA MARIA TRASPEDINI

M. Biasioli

Worldwide Estates Coordinator

In 2018 SKUA Nature took over Ornitholidays, tour operator offering worldwide nature tours. A team of experts will be dedicated to this branch of the company..

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IGOR MAIORANO Techinical Coordinator Tour leader & Scauter

A NEW VISION

FOR LAND OWNERS AND PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS

• • • • • • • •

M. Biasioli

•

SKUA Nature is leader in the development and management of natural areas; We know how to communicate to this quite demanding target of clientele and prepare ad hoc promotional materials; All our projects always follow the highest ethical and environmental standards; We participate to the most important international fairs of this field; We have contacts with a huge number of tour operators and professionals from different countries; Our team deals entirely with the development and long term management of the project; Calibrated initial investment; SKUA Nature starts to receive benefits at the same time when the owner/manager of the area receives the first incomes from the project; The fact that we manage a Network allows our company to offer the greatest percentage of the profits to the local partner, be it a land owner or public institution (on average the 60-70%); Our Network is already a success and it helps new projects to accelerate the achievement of their goals

M. Biasioli

•

L. Boscain

SKUA Nature is a world leader in the development and management of natural areas. Our international experience allows us to detect the right strong points to be enhanced, in order to develop projects that have all the necessary features to access the most important nature tourism networks. Our great experience in the field allows us to have a very good and intimate knowledge of nature and wildlife, which is of course necessary in order, for instance, to know how, where and when to build a new hide for taking photos of a particular species and which are the target species for each country. Our work is not “only” the hides construction, it’s the creation of the whole system from the first recce of the area to the creation of a solid long term business plan, from the construction or renewal of specific facilities dedicated to this kind of tourism to the training of the staff, from the promotion and marketing through international fairs and contacts with the main worldwide tour operators of this market to the touristic groups management, from the creation of ad hoc promotional material (website, brochures, etc.) to the administration office, technical team, and lot more. In every SKUA activity, the most important thing is obviously the well-being of the wildlife. We all are naturalists, biologists and conservationists, therefore we have always very clear in mind that we must NOT in any way have a negative impact on the nature’s delicate balance. Our attention is always very high in this regard and dealing with wildlife we all have to be very careful.

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SKUA PHOTOGRAPHERS PHOTOGRAPHY AS A NATURE CONSERVATION TOOL

Everyday, many people support us with passion helping us improving, developing new ideas and collecting photographic material. SKUA photographers team consists in amateur and professional photographers who dedicate us their spare time testing hides and going to visit new places to collect new material, pictures and technical details useful for new projects.

MASSIMO PIACENTINO

CARLO GALLIANI

MARINO PREMOLI

MASSIMILIANO APOLLO

CRISTIANO PEDRIALI

LUCA GARCIA

MONICAVIORA

JORGE RUBIO CASADO

IVAN FERRERO

ALIDA PIGLIA

MANUEL LORENZO

RENATO FERNANDEZ

ANSAR KHAN

Thanks to their support we can be aware of what happens in the Network reserves around Europe and keep improving perches and backgrounds, which are key photography features.

M. Biasioli

CLAUDIO TORCHIO

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Oasis Pho ocon es

INTERNATIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY AWARD FOR NATURE AND ENVIRONMENT

th EDITION

Registration opening: October 1, 2018 TOTAL PRIZE MONEY

30.000 â&#x201A;¬

www.oasisphotocontest.it

M. Andreini

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M. Biasioli M. Biasioli

SKUA Natureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s consultancy work can basically be described as follows: we come to see your areas, your locations, what you have to offer in terms of wildlife species and photo opportunities, which is the standard of food and accommodation on offer. After having seen and checked all of this, SKUA will be able to make a development plan for the area, which will obviously be very different from place to place, depending on which are the real opportunities for each area.Â In some cases there will hopefully be the chance of setting up a photographic reserve, while in other cases SKUA will only offer its consultancy work, consisting in the realization of the dedicated website, leaflets, and in the chance of being part of our network, therefore being promoted in various fairs and events and with direct links on our main website and more. Obviously, such a collaboration agreement could be signed only if some necessary requirements are reached: SKUA will be happy to promote a certain destination, provided it can guarantee our standards in term of quality.

M. R. Romero

Arch. Ornitholidays

CONSULTANCY

M. Biasioli

Creating a photo hide or an area for watching wildlife is not difficult; on-line you can find plenty of examples with a multitude of photos and technical basics to copy. One of the differences that make our work unique is the deep knowledge, not only in terms of the technical skills which allow us to build different kinds of facilities, but also of the ecological dynamics which regulate wildlifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s movements and behaviours. Our intervention is not limited to the construction of a hide, but above all we locate the very best crossing points for wildlife and we restore small or big habitats in order to facilitate the stop over of migrating birds.

M. Biasioli

TECHNICAL SKILLS

M. Biasioli

In desert areas, in wetlands, in dense forests or highly anthropized areas, we always operate with outstanding expertise and dedication, making use of all the necessary means for a correct execution of the works. Our know-how about materials, technologies, equipments and working tools allows us to make very detailed pre-working plans and subsequently extremely accurate interventions, without wasting material, time or energies.

M. Biasioli

Thanks to our skilled and highly experienced team, we manage to work in every possible condition, always finding the best technical solutions in order to realize works with a minimum environmental impact but at the same time highly efficient.The best logistic solutions for a fast job and with an optimisation of the costs are guaranteed.

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Starting from 2018 Ornitholidays is a new Project developed by SKUA Nature Group

ornitholidays.com

SKUA Nature Group s.n.c.

Via Valle N° 4 - 15020 Castelletto Merli (AL), Italy tel/fax +39-0141/918403 www.skuanature.com info@skuanature.com

EDITOR Massimiliano Biasioli DEPARTMENT EDITORS Massimiliano Biasioli, Paola Maria Traspedini, Teresa Rocchi, Mercedes R. Romero TEXTS Massimiliano Biasioli, Paola Maria Traspedini, Teresa Rocchi, Mercedes R. Romero, Fundaeco, Finca Los Andes, EB Las Guacamayas, TRANSLATIONS & TECHNICAL REVIEWERS Paola Maria Traspedini, Teresa Rocchi GRAPHIC DESIGN SKUA Nature Group ILLUSTRATIONS Daniel Steenhaut, Andrea Maestri, Max Biasioli PHOTO CREDITS Merce R. Romero, Fabrizio Filippini, Francesco Rovedo, Piero Baloire, Guido Bissattini, Nigel Jones, Massimiliano Biasioli, Sergio Stignani, Daniele Giuliani, M. Mendi, Tiziana D’Arcangelo, Luca Boscain, Ilario Zuccolo, Carlo Galliani, Patrik Dieudonne, Marino Premoli, Francesco Rovedo, Andrea Maestri, Simone Giachello, Marco Andreini, Martin Steenhaut, Mario Vigo, Marco Valentini, Marino Premoli, Daniel Petrescu, Basilio Gil, Andrea Battisti, Emanuele Natali, Carlo Romano, Alberto Carati, Jon Egert, Maurizio Ferrari, Luca Garcia, Iosto Doneddu, Roberto Sindaco, Sara Genovese, A. Verdugo, E. Micò, T. Németh, L. Quaresma, Massimiliano Apollo, Alida Piglia, Manuel Lorenzo, Paolo Fumgalli, Nini Berger, Alain Berger, Cornelio Chable, Joel Such, Rafa Amado, Jaime Freire, Olga Hazard, Vilma Ruiz, James Hazard, Andres Novales, Rowland Griffin, Renato Fernandez Ravelo, Ansar Khan, Carlo Alberto Conti, Matteo Gagliardone, Cristiano Pedriali, Renzo Dionigi, Alberto Luca Conte, Ralph Christian Rosenbauer, E. Bosch, Massimo Piacentino, Pablo Serrano, Antonio De Stefano, Lorenzo Zuntini, Franco Baccelli, Dayana Nicolae, Nicola Scatassi, Giorgi Rajebashvili, Marcello Libra, Arch. Ornitholidays, Arch. SKUA Nature, Arch. Fundaeco, Arch. Finca Los Andes, Arch. EB Las Guacamayas, Exotix Eritage Group Arch.

www.zenelli.it

INNATE Network is a Project developed by SKUA Nature Group

skuanature.com skuanature.es innatenetwork.com ornitholidays.com General Headquarters

Cascina Picus - Via Valle 4 - 15020 - Castelletto Merli (AL) Piedmont - North West of Italy - Italy Tel/Fax: from UK 020 81449814 other Countries +39 0141918403 info@skuanature.com

Main Technical Sponsor

Cover Photo: Iberian Lynx - Merce R. Romero