The Reptiles & Amphibians of the Italian Alps

Summary

The Alps are the highest mountain massif in Europe, forming a natural border between Italy and the rest of the continent, but more importantly, acting as a strong physical barrier separating the Mediterranean region from the temperate zone. Situated on the southern slopes of the Alps, facing the Mediterranean, the Italian Alps host an exceptionally rich variety of environments shaped by the combined influence of both climatic regions.

Searching for reptiles and amphibians will be the perfect pretext to spend two weeks immersed in beautiful alpine and pre-alpine landscapes, traversing the entire Italian Alpine arc, from Piedmont in the west to Friuli Venezia Giulia in the east. From crystalline alpine lakes high above the treeline to open pastures and coniferous forests at lower elevations, we will explore a wide range of habitats in search of local herpetofauna, tasting the regional cuisine, and admiring traditional alpine landscapes shaped by millennia of coexistence between humans and nature.

Our daily schedule will remain flexible and weather-dependent: sunny days will be dedicated primarily to searching for snakes and other reptiles, while rainy days will be perfect for amphibians such as alpine and fire salamanders. Night walks will offer further opportunities to find amphibians, especially if rain is scarce.