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Dogs, horses and wildlife protection

Dogs, horses and wildlife protection

Why not dogs, not even on a leash, but horses?

The "Fontana del Guercio" nature reserve, part of Lombardy's protected areas system, is a particularly valuable ecosystem home to rare animal and plant species, some of which are unique to this part of Lombardy.
For this reason, dogs are not permitted, even on a leash. This is not only due to the animal's direct behavior, but also to indirect factors: dogs, through urine, feces, and odors, mark their territory and disrupt the natural balance. Wild species such as hares, pheasants, roe deer, and ground-nesting birds perceive these signals as the presence of a predator and, instinctively, move away or abandon their nests, even during the breeding season.
The "Fontana del Guercio" area is also the subject of attention and protection within the Natura 2000 Network, a European system of areas designated for the conservation of biodiversity ([learn more at: natura2000.eea.europa.eu]). In particular, the area preserves wetlands, springs, and sensitive forest habitats, which provide refuge and breeding grounds for European-protected species.
Conversely, horses, when used on authorized trails, are compatible with the natural environment. As non-predatory herbivores, they pose no threat to wildlife. Furthermore, their presence has always been part of the Lombardy rural landscape, and the equestrian itineraries are designed to minimize environmental impact.
We invite you to respect this rule with awareness: your behavior can make a difference in the conservation of a fragile, precious, and unique ecosystem.
ATTENTION! Regarding access with dogs, offenders will be fined between €25.82 and €258.22, as per Article 30 of Regional Law 86/1983.
To ensure visitors with dogs are not excluded, an alternative route outside the reserve has been created, clearly marked on the map available and downloadable here:

DOWNLOAD THE MAP

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