Oasi del Simeto

The Natural Reserve Simeto Oasis is located on the border between the province of Catania and Syracuse. Established in 1984 to preserve the natural environment of particular interest seriously threatened by the actions of man, the nature reserve “Oasi del Simeto” is typologically identified as a nature reserve in order to promote and enhance the conditions for resting and nesting fauna and restoration of Psammofila and Mediterranean vegetation. The river banks are home to a Simeto hygrophilous vegetation dominated by the Common Reed which is a typical vegetation of these mainly monophyte environments. The sites subjected to drying during the summer are characterized by more or less extensive Scirpetum, less hygrophilous associations that bear even a modest soil salinity. Of particular interest is the presence, along the middle course of the Simeto, of an endemic Willow vegetation Salix Gussonei.
In this environment, many species of nesting birds find a shelter; in particular, the Ferruginous Duck, the Water Rail, the Little Bittern,the Purple Heron,the Marsh, the Pendulum bird, which nests in the willow bush and recently, due to its reintroduction after its extinction in Sicily in the fifties, the Sultan Chiken also nests there.
The area of the mouth is also a resting place for migratory species.
The route is not difficult and is suitable for everyone.