Naturetrek in Abruzzo Week 2 - Apennine Wolf!

Typical scenery in Abruzzo

Our second group thoroughly enjoyed another excellent week in the stunning mountain scenery around Pescasseroli, in the heart of the Abruzzo National Park, Italy. The hospitality provided by Marco, Geraldine and all the staff at the Albergo Paradiso was much appreciated. The weather remained largely dry and sunny with occasional heavy showers that did not dampen our enthusiasm!

Those who rose at 5am to join Jessica and me on the early morning mammal watches from Gioia Vecchio were finally rewarded (on Day 5) with exceptional views of two wolves. Having had brief views of a Marsican Brown Bear walking across a clearing, I was scanning hard when two Apennine Wolves walked out of the forest and stopped for about 3 minutes, interacting in a playful manner that belied their undeserved negative reputation. We watched them through the 'scope until they sauntered along a path across a clearing and back into the trees. It was one of those special wildlife moments when time seems to stand still; prolonged views of Apennine Wolf are very unusual and those present felt very privileged.

Sunset at Gioia Vecchio

The Apennine Wolf (Canis lupus italicus) is also known as the Italian Wolf. It is a sub-species of Grey Wolf, differing both morphologically and genetically from other races (like the more widespread Eurasian Wolf). It inhabits mountainous areas across the Appenines and western Alps, though it is undergoing a process of expansion towards the north and east. Recent estimates put the total population at 500 individuals. It has been strictly protected in Italy since the 1970s, when the population reached a low of 70-100 individuals. The population in the Abruzzo National Park is estimated at just 50 individuals.

The spectacular scenery of the Val di Rose was considered by most of the group to be another highlight of a memorable week. The local Apennine Chamois (like the Apennine Wolf, a separate race unique to Italy) were very confiding and birds included Goshawk, Alpine Accentor, Black-eared Wheatear and Alpine Chough.

View from the top of the Val di Rose

Apennine Chamois

A lot of our time was devoted to seeking out unusual flowers in the different valleys around Pescasseroli; once again Jessica was able to locate a stunning array of over 30 Orchids in various locations.

Lady's Slipper Orchid

Bertoloni's Bee Orchid

The Abruzzo National Park is an amazing location for wildlife and one to which I could happily return again and again!