You only have to walk out of the door, into the garden, at Casa Bianca to see a wide variety of wildlife. Buzzards, kestrels and owls are commonly seen, and occasionally storks and herons too. Closer to the ground, salamanders and lizards make an appearance when the sun is out and in the evening, foxes and hares may be spotted.
A 5 minute walk from Casa Bianca takes you to the edge of the 'calanchi' nature reserve, which surrounds the town of Atri. This WWF protected area is made up of spectacularly eroded furrows, acting as a safe refuge for many birds and animals.
After a 20 minute drive from Casa Bianca, you will reach Penne Lake, which is home to about 160 species of birds, such as the little egret and red heron, plus many types of fish. Dense vegetation surrounds the lake and this WWF reserve of 3212 acres is amongst the most interesting in Abruzzo. There is an educational centre, which is the starting point for various walks along the lake. It is possible to see otters playing in the water and deer grazing on the waters edge, walk through a delightful butterfly garden, as well as enjoying the relaxing and peaceful atmosphere.
A couple of otters enjoying the shade, by Penne lake
Waterfall, at Farindola
Sheep are a common sight in the hills of Abruzzo
'Calanchi', natural phenomenon
Penne lake, in Spring
In the Gran Sasso National Park, mammals include wolves, chamois, boars, wild cats and possibly bears. Birds include golden
