A true paradise for amphibians, reptiles and dragonflies. The area has been protected as a forest reserve since the 1990s under the name Parco del bosco di Maia, allowing the forest to evolve according to natural processes.
The Losone-Arcegno area is a thriving place full of life. Just a stone's throw from the city, this territory, considered the most characteristic and complete glacial landscape at low altitude in all of Switzerland, is the permanent home to numerous animal species, particularly reptiles, amphibians and dragonflies. The vegetation is very varied: chestnut, oak, birch, as well as ash, black alder and reed in the wetter areas, are present. The clearings host the broom, male fern and very tall grass as well as rare species such as sharp-flowered rush and graziela.
The animal kingdom is also very well represented: almost all amphibians and reptiles possible for this altitude zone are present, including the southern spotted newt, agile frog, Italian tree frog and dice snake. Looking up, you can see various bird species such as the common redstart and wryneck. Completing the picture are about twenty dragonflies (e.g., the southern broad-bodied chaser or the four-spotted chaser) and an equal number of butterfly species.
Discover many other walks “Discovering biodiversity” in the printed guide. Information: www.a-pro.ch
