It is the kingdom of the gray wolf, so much so that it even deserves the name of Oasi del Lupo. And it is identified with a Site of Community Interest and with a Special Protection Area, to underline the extraordinary naturalistic value of Monte Polveracchio, which reaches 1792 metres.
The oasis covers about 200 hectares, largely subject to integral protection, except for a portion of about one tenth of the total where the paths and areas for hikers and enthusiasts are concentrated. The protected territory is mainly mountainous and includes, with a highland meadow, also the sources of the Tenza river, a tributary of the Sele and various minor watercourses. Just the Tenza, which crosses the town of Campagna, is the protagonist in the summer, between July and August, of a very spectacular and characteristic event, the so-called “chiena”: the course of the river is diverted so that the water floods the roads of Campagna, to the delight of villagers and foreigners.
The protected area offers various trekking paths: the Valle dei Tassi path, the Acqua Menecale path and the Cai path 167 b. The various itineraries in the countryside also allow you to enjoy the numerous streams and equipped rest areas, where it is also possible to quench your thirst with spring water.
Beech is particularly widespread in the area, even with large and ancient specimens. But there is no shortage of sycamore and Neapolitan maples, chestnut trees and a white birch station. Under the trees, there is a riot of flowers: crocuses, violets and buttercups. As for the fauna, in addition to the gray wolf (Canis lupus), the oasis is populated by numerous mammals, including the rare wild cat (Felis silvestris). The rich avifauna also includes various birds of prey, such as sparrowhawks, buzzards, golden eagles, owls, barn owls and peregrine falcons. Some sites are home to the rare and protected fire salamander (Salamandra salamandra) and Italian newt (Triturus italicus).
