The BirdLife Malta - Adult Activities Group organised another successful educational day in Sicily. Participants were greeted and shown around by LIPU (Lega Italiana Protezione Uccelli), a Birdlife associate in Sicily.

Participants enjoyed the morning touring the Nature Reserve of Bosco Santo Pietro (Caltagirone). This predominantly oak forest is renowned for a variety of flora and fauna and included the limodorumabortivum, a rare type of wild orchid, very old cork trees, various other species of wild plants and flowers. Other interesting species included Herman's tortoises, the beautiful southern white admiral butterfly and various types of lizards.

Members were invited to have lunch at the Centro Riabilitativo Terapeutico La Grazia, a rehabilitation centre for persons suffering from disabilities. Birdlife Malta presented a donation to the centre.

The afternoon was spent at the plains of Gela, an area covered by extensive fields with a vast mix in biodiversity. Various species of birds and birds of prey were seen. However, the area is renowned for the largest colony of white storks in Italy. An estimated 40 pairs roost on top of the 30-metre high electricity pylons. These beautiful creatures could be seen flying and scouring the surrounding fields for insects to feed their offspring.

Members of the general public are urged to support Birdlife Malta.

Visit www.birdlifmalta.org or phone on 2134 7645/6/7