Large beech forests, many of which are centuries-old and probably among the oldest in Europe, cover the mountain slopes in many areas. Among the huge trees and their mossy stems live large populations of wild herbivores like red deer, roe deer and wild boar. These species in many places share their habitats with large herds of semi-wild horses and cattle and together represent the main prey for the wolves, whose density in some Apennine areas is possibly the highest in Europe. Abruzzi is one of the best spots in the Old World to watch this beautiful and elusive carnivore. Nevertheless, the most charismatic and famous inhabitant of the mountain forests here is the Marsican brown bear, an endemic subspecies to this region, whose core range lies mostly within the narrow boundaries of the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park and its surroundings
Vast high altitude prairies lie above the timberline and host many other unique wildlife and plant species. These open grasslands are the prime habitat for the the endemic Apennine chamois which is present with several hundred individuals in the wildest and most rugged areas of the area. Chamois share their range with impressive birds like the golden eagle and the griffon vulture.
For wildlife lovers and adventurous souls the mountain of Central Apennines and the area of Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park represent the wild heart of Italy. Discreet hikers can catch a glimpse of these wonderful animals but they are not easily spotted. Our speciality knowledge is to be in the right place at the right time, to see them.
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