View
8
Download
0
Category
Preview:
Citation preview
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula
Naturetrek Tour Report 11 – 18 April 2012
Naturetrek Cheriton Mill Cheriton Alresford Hampshire SO24 0NG
England
T: +44 (0)1962 733051 F: +44 (0)1962 736426
E: info@naturetrek.co.uk W: www.naturetrek.co.uk
Report and images compiled by Paul Harmes & Terry Goble
Green-underside Blue - Glaucopsyche alexi Orchis papilionacea
Tragopogon crocifolius 2012 Naturetrek Group
Tour Report Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula
© Naturetrek September 12 1�
Tour Leaders: Paul Harmes Naturetrek Botanist
Terry Goble Naturetrek Ornithologist
Participants: Michael Faraday
Christina Hart-Davies
Judy Hayton
Brenda Head
Judy Lawrence
Brian Attock
Mike Norman
Allison Uren
Mike Uren
Rose Walker
Neil Walker
Beryl Wyrko
David Wyrko
Day 1 Wednesday 11th April
Weather: Heavy rain at first, clearing later
Ten tour members met with Paul at Gatwick Airport's North Terminal for our British Airways flight to Naples.
Upon arrival, we soon collected our luggage and made our way into the arrivals hall, where Terry was waiting
with the remaining three tour group members. Following a short walk to the car hire centre, our leaders
completed the formalities for hiring of the mini-buses, before we set off for the Sorrento Peninsula. Our route
took us past the imposing Mount Vesuvius and the beautiful Bay of Naples, although low cloud and rain meant
our views were limited. We left the motorway at Castellmare di Stabia, and turned onto the busy, but scenic,
coastal road, entering the first of three long tunnels which cut through the mountain. Emerging, we were soon
enjoying the views of the Bay of Sorrento, including the islands of Capri and Ischia, and the rugged coastline. A
few Kestrels and a European Roller were seen by the roadside during the journey. Continuing on through the
busy evening traffic, we soon arrived at the Hotel Dania, our base for the week. We were welcomed by our host,
Anna Maria and the night porter, Alberto, who quickly settled us into our rooms. We met again at 20-30hrs for
dinner, during which Paul outlined the next day’s itinerary, before we all retired to bed.
Day 2 Thursday 12th April
Weather: Fine, warm and sunny
An early, pre-breakfast walk in the vicinity of the hotel produced several Serin, Italian Sparrow, Subalpine
Warbler, Common Whitethroat and purring Turtle Doves.
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
2� © Naturetrek September 12
Today we travelled the relatively short distance south of Via Capo to the town of Termini. Along the way, we
saw Ferula communis (Giant Fennel) and Allium triquetrum (Three-cornered Leek). In Termini, we parked the
vehicles. Our plan was to walk the track from the town to the old lighthouse at Punta Campanella. The
Mediterranean flora was very much in evidence here, and it was not long before we were beginning to identify an
array of species. The early part of the track, near the town, descended through olive groves, market gardens and
woodland, and then into more open “Garrigue” scrubland nearer the lighthouse. An early sighting was a
Bonelli’s Eagle being mobbed by a Raven. As we moved on, we also began to record plants. Ulmus minor (Small-
leaved Elm), Tordylium apulum (Tordylium), Parietaria officinalis (Eastern Pellitory-of-the-Wall), Allium roseum (Rosy
garlic), Athyrium filix-femina (Lady Fern) and Muscari comosum (Tassel Hyacinth) were all seen. Butterflies were also
active, with Southern Festoon, Holly Blue and Wall Brown recorded.
A little further on we found the endemic Lithodora rosmarinifolium (Rosemary-leaved Gromwell) and, very close by,
we found Ophrys araneola (an Early Spider Orchid) and Orchis italica (Naked Man Orchid). There was also a
considerable amount of bird activity. Subalpine Warblers, Common Whitethroat and Sardinian Warbler were all
obvious, and superb views were had by all of Wood Warbler. With regard to botanical interest, the Pea family
was particularly well represented, with Trifolium stellatum (Starry Clover), Lotus ornithopodioides (a Bird’s-foot
Trefoil), Anthyllis barba-jovis (Jupiter's Beard), Lathyrus clymenum, Tetragonolobus purpureus (Asparagus Pea), Coronilla
scorpioides (Annual Scorpion-vetch) and Coronilla valentina (Scorpion Senna) all recorded.
While enjoying our picnic lunch at the old lighthouse, we saw Barn Swallows, Black-eared Wheatear and
Northern Wheatear. Italian Wall Lizards were also very numerous and active in the afternoon sun. As we began
to retrace our steps, we found Plantago arenaria (Branched Plantain) and Anacamptis pyramidalis (Pyramidal Orchid).
Speckled Wood, Red Admiral and Painted Lady were also seen in the sun. When we reached Termini, we
stopped for well-earned refreshments at a local bar/cafe, before beginning our homeward journey.
Day 3 Friday 13th April
Weather: Continuous rain and low cloud
After breakfast we were soon heading northeast through Sorrento and on up to Seiano, where we turned right
and began to climb into the Lattari Mountains. We made our first stop on a roadside just north of the village of
Alberi. Here we explored the verges and adjacent woodland, finding Aristolochia pallida (a Birthwort), Orchis
provincialis (Provence Orchid), Cytisus villosus (Hairy Broom) and Ophrys exaltata (Sicilian Spider Orchid). Short-
toed Treecreeper and Italian House Sparrow were recorded and Serin sang from the olive groves.
Continuing up through the village of Prezzano, we reached Moiana. Here we turned right and began to climb
more steeply towards Monte Faito, our destination for the day. This is one of the summits which dominate the
Lattari range, over 1200m high. From here we would normally have stunning views across the Bay of Naples to
Vesuvius, but due to the weather, this was not to be. Our walk took us on a gentle incline through open rocky
grassland and Pinus nigra subsp. nigra (Black Pine) / Alnus incana (Italian Alder) open woodland. As a result of its
altitude, Mt Faito has a very alpine feel to it, and the flora here confirms this. Scilla bifolia (Alpine Squill), Crocus
vernus (Spring Crocus) and Arabis alpina subsp. caucasicus (Alpine Rock-cress) were all present. Birds included a very
obliging Eurasian Wryneck, Pied Flycatcher, and Coal Tit. Goldcrest was heard singing and a Green
Woodpecker and Nuthatch was also seen.
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 3�
The path, which leads to the church of St. Michele, took us past a splendid rocky outcrop overlooking the valley
below. Here we found the very attractive endemic Viola eugeniae (a Pansy) and good numbers of the delicate blue
or white Anemone apennina (Blue Anemone), although they were not open. On the return journey, we noted some
more good plants including Asphodelus albus (White Asphodel), and many plants of Helleborus foetidus (Stinking
Hellebore). A Pied Flycatcher was also spotted, before we rejoined our vehicles.
We dropped down to a local restaurant for much needed, hot, afternoon refreshments, before beginning our
descent from the mountain. Some eight hundred metres below this point, we made a short stop to see Orchis
pauciflora (Sparse-flowered Orchid), Euphorbia spinosa (Spiny Spurge), and Santolina chamaecyparissus (Lavender
Cotton), before making our way back to our hotel for dinner.
Day 4 Saturday 14th April
Weather: Rain
Leaving the hotel after breakfast, we drove in the direction of Sant Agata, with the objective today of visiting the
splendid Amalfi coastal road to the lovely little town of Positano. Even though the sky was overcast, we could
enjoy some dramatic views of the mountains and sea cliffs, with the road clinging to their sides. Paul and Terry
parked the mini-buses in a lay-by, where we distributed the lunch and dressed in our waterproofs, as a precaution
against the expected inclement weather.
As we began the steep early climb we soon found Ophrys araneola (an Early Spider Orchid), Teucrium fruticans
(Shrubby Germander) and Arisarum vulgare (Friar’s Cowl). It was not long, however, before we were proved right,
as the rain began to fall, lightly at first but becoming heavier as we progressed. We climbed slowly up through
Oak and Pine based woodland, passing emerging Cistus creticus (a Pink Cistus) and Cistus salvifolius (Sage-leaved
Cistus). There was also Orchis papilionacea (Pink Butterfly Orchid), Lupinus angustifolius (Narrow-leaved Lupin) and
Cyclamen repandum (Spring Sowbread). Birds were not very active, although a solitary Booted Eagle, a pair of Pied
Flycatchers and a Common Kestrel were all seen.
Continuing on up, the path levelled out under a cliff with Thymelaea tartonraria (a Thymelaea), Colutea arborescens
(Bladder Senna) and more Orchis italica (Naked Man Orchid) and Orchis papilionacea (Pink Butterfly Orchid).
Descending through more Oak woodland, we emerged, via some more steep steps, just outside Positano. The
now very heavy rain was turning the path into a small river. We found another overhang which we could all
shelter under, and ate our lunch, during which, the town of Positano regularly appeared and disappeared in the
low cloud. On completing the descent, Terry and Paul went the fetch the vehicles, in order that we could return
early to the hotel to shower and change into dry clothes.
We reconvened after an hour, for coffee, and Paul and Terry offered some further options for the remainder of
the day. Some chose to visit the town of Sorrento, whilst others chose to do a local walk, as the rain had
stopped. During this good numbers of Common Swift were seen, together with Wood Warbler and Tree
Sparrow.
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
4� © Naturetrek September 12
Day 5 Sunday 15th April
Weather: Showers and sunny periods
After an early breakfast, we left the hotel in good time to drive into Sorrento and down to the Marina Piccola,
parking the minibuses at the port. Paul went to buy our tickets for the boat over to the beautiful island of Capri,
whilst Terry organised the picnic lunch for everyone. We soon boarded the 08-30hrs ferry for the twenty-five
minute journey over to the island. Some of us travelled on the open rear deck of the 'Super Flyte' in the hope of
seeing some sea birds, but we only managed Yellow-legged Gull and a solitary Scopoli’s Shearwater.
Upon our arrival on Capri we needed to acquire joint travel tickets for the funicular railway, which took us up
the hill to the bus station, where we then transferred to one of the little buses that connect Capri town with
Anacapri, the other main town here. At Anacapri we began the walk to the top of Monte Solaro, which, at 587
metres, is the highest point of the island. Setting off, it was not long before we began to find things of interest.
Masses of Orchis italica (Naked Man Orchid) and a few Orchis papilionacea (Pink Butterfly Orchid) were seen, and
some wonderful views below and out to sea. Soon we were finding and getting views of Sardinian Warbler,
Subalpine Warbler, a Woodchat Shrike and Pied Flycatcher. Ranunculus paludosus (Jersey Buttercup), Ophrys
bombyliflora (Bumblebee Orchid) and Brassica oleraceus subsp. robertiana (a Wild Cabbage) were also added. It was
half way to the summit when the rain arrived, but good views of Chiffchaff, Pied Flycatcher and Peregrine
Falcon took our minds off it.
When we reached Monte Solaro, we took our picnic under a shelter near a new café, which was closed. We had
taken quite a lot of time ascending the mountain, so we did not spend much time at the top. A we began our
descent, we added Evax pygmaea (Evax), Iris germanica (Bearded Iris) and Erodium malacoides (Mallow-leaved
Stork's-bill), as we began to retrace our steps gradually down through the Pinus nigra subsp. nigra (Black Pine)
woodland and scrub towards Anacapri. Some of the group elected to walk down, others chose to take the
chairlift. When we reached the town, we made our way to a restaurant for refreshments before getting the bus
and the funicular back to Capri Harbour, to catch the 16-20hrs ferry back to Sorrento. Before leaving, we had a
short birding session on the end of the harbour arm, but only managed to add Common Sandpiper.
Upon our return to Via Capo, the birders went for a short walk, adding incoming Alpine Swift and Common
House Martin, together with Chiffchaff, Willow Warbler and Wood Warbler. However, they were still unable to
locate the ever-present Turtle Dove they were hearing.
Day 6 Monday 16th April
Weather: Dry but cloudy at first, followed by prolonged rain
After breakfast we were soon heading north for a morning visit to the extensive ruins of the Roman city of
Pompeii, situated ominously beneath Mount Vesuvius, which had destroyed the city in the eruption of 79AD.
After parking the buses, we made our way to the entrance where, to our surprise, entrance was free for this week
only. Maps and guides were obtained before we set off. All group members made their own way around the
archaeological site, reporting a number of species of birds and plants. These included Tree Sparrows, several
Hoopoe ‘fly overs’, Greenfinch, Hooded Crows and the omnipresent Serins and Sardinian Warblers.
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 5�
Nesting Short-toed Tree creepers were watched feeding their brood amongst the ruins, which delighted several
members of the group. A particular botanical species which appeared regularly, was Cymbalaria muralis (Ivy-leaved
Toadflax).
From Pompeii, we took the road towards Naples and, after a short distance, turned off onto the road into the
Vesuvius National Park and the steep winding ascent that goes almost to the top of this awesome volcano. We
stopped in a lay-by in order to take our picnic, just as the rain began to fall. Paul and Terry decided it would not
be a good idea to try and set up a picnic in this unsheltered spot, so we went to a local pizzeria for lunch.
Following our meal, we drove on up the mountain, reaching the summit car park. We set out to walk up the
steep path to the crater. When we got there, the weather became even more unpleasant. However, a couple of
the group managed to get a look at the crater, before the park authorities closed off the access. On the descent,
Rumex scutatus (French Sorrel) was seen, and the early colonising lichen, Stereocaulon vesuvianum, which gradually,
over time, will help break the rock down so that vascular plants can grab a foothold. Genista aetnensis (Mt Etna
Broom) was also scattered across the mountainside. From here we made our way back to Sorrento.
Day 7 Tuesday 17th April
Weather: Rain
The day started well with an early birding from the hotel producing a singing Tree Sparrow and Turtle Dove,
Pied Flycatcher, Common Kestrel and Sardinian Warbler. After breakfast, we returned to the cliff-top village of
Termini., where we once again parked just outside the village. We began by walking down to the market gardens
and Olive groves. The cloud was low and the rain persistent, but we heard Cetti’s Warbler and saw Blackcap,
Tree Sparrow and Willow Warbler.
We then drove a short way to a picnic site just to the east of village, where we enjoyed our food. During our stop
we added Iris foetidissima (Stinking Iris) and Cardamine pratense (Cuckoo Flower). We packed up and moved on to
Nerano and Marina di Catone, which were below the low cloud, however, the rain became heavier, and appeared
to have set in for a prolonged period of time. We therefore returned to the hotel for warm drinks and an
alternative plan.
After our refreshments, we set off to walk down to the Marina di Puolo Capitolo, passing through the Lemon
and Olive groves which lie below the hotel. There was a fine show of bryophyte and fern covered walls, with
species such as Anogramma leptophylla (Jersey Fern), Adiantum capillus-veneris (Maidenhair Fern) and Polypodium
interjectum (Intermediate Polypody). Some of the birds seen as we progressed were Wood Warbler, Willow
Warbler, Robin and Tree Sparrow. One surprise was a solitary Black-headed Yellow Wagtail (feldegg), seen
feeding in a field. Under the olive trees further down we found Symphytum tuberosum (Tuberous Comfrey) and a
large stand of Orobanche ramosa (Branched Broomrape). As we arrived at the point of the walk overlooking the
bay at Marina di Puolo Capitolo, good views were had of an Eleanora’s Falcon. Along the banks, Scorpiurus
muricatus (Scorpion-vetch), Convolvulus althaeoides (Mallow-leaved Bindweed) and Lotus ornithopodioides were also
seen. The final sighting of the day was of three Blue Rock Thrushes, before it was time to return for dinner.
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
6� © Naturetrek September 12
Day 8 Wednesday 18th April
Weather: Cloudy with sunny periods
Saying our farewells to the staff at the Dania Hotel, and to Rose and Neil, who were catching a ferry from
Sorrento to Naples, we left at 08-30hrs, in order to try and revisit Mount Vesuvius. Making our way north and
joining the A3 autostrada, we turned off and made our way slowly up the mountain, which today, was fairly clear
with only a little cloud. However, we were stopped half way up, because there were too many vehicles at the top.
So, the decision was made to return to the lower slopes of the volcano, in order to explore the colonised lava.
Orchis papilionacea (Pink Butterfly Orchid), Ophrys sphegodes (Early Spider Orchid), Orchis morio (Green-winged
Orchid) and Urospermum dalechampii, were early finds. Common Kestrel, Common Magpie and Sardinian Warbler
were seen, and Great Spotted Woodpecker and Cetti’s Warbler were heard. As this was the first sunshine we had
seen for some time, it was pleasing to identify some butterflies. Common Blue, Green-underside Blue, wall
Brown and Swallowtail, among them. After taking our picnic among these old lava-flows, it was time to make
our way back to Naples airport, for our flight back to Gatwick.
NB. We would like to offer our sincere thanks to Christina Hart-Davies for identifying the interesting Lower
Plant species encountered during the trip.
Receive our e-newsletter
Join the Naturetrek e-mailing list and be the first to hear about new tours, additional departures and new dates,
tour reports and special offers. Visit www.naturetrek.co.uk to sign up.
Naturetrek Facebook
We are delighted to launch the Naturetrek Facebook page so that participants of Naturetrek tours can remain in
touch after the holiday and share photos, comments and future travel plans.
Setting up a personal profile at www.facebook.com is quick, free and easy. The Naturetrek Facebook page is
now live; do please pay us a visit!
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 7�
Species List
Plants
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
LICHENS
Cladonia convoluta - Capri
Stereocaulon vesuvianum Mount Vesuvius Lichen Mount Vesuvius
MOSSES, LIVERWORTS & HORNWORTS
Lunularia cruciata Crescent-cup Liverwort Pompei
Priessia quadrata Narrow Mushroom-headed Liverwort Vesuvius lower slopes
Bartramia pomiformis Common Apple-moss Vesuvius lower slopes
Phaeoceros c.f. carolinianus a Smooth Hornwort Marina di Puolo Capitolo
PTERIDOPHYTES FERNS & ALLIES
Selaginellaceae Lesser Clubmoss Family
Selaginella denticulata Mediterranean Clubmoss Punta Campanella
Adiantaceae Maidenhair Fern Family
Adiantum capillus-veneris Maidenhair Fern Pompei
Anogramma leptophylla Jersey Fern Punta Campanella
Cheilanthes maderensis (C.pteridioides) Resurrection Fern Above Positano
Aspleniaceae Spleenwort family
Asplenium adiantum-nigrum Black Spleenwort Punta Campanella
Asplenium obovatum Lanceolate Spleenwort Above Positano
Asplenium onopteris Irish Spleenwort Above Positano
Asplenium trichomanes Maidenhair Spleenwort Monte Faito
Ceterach officinarum Rustyback Punta Campanella
Dennstaeditiaceae Bracken Family
Pteridium aquilinum Bracken Common
Dryopteridaceae Buckler-fern Family
Dryopteris dilatata Broad Buckler-fern Above Positano
Polypodiaceae Polypody Family
Polypodium cambricum Southern Polypody Punta Campanella
Polypodium interjectum Intermediate Polypody Punta Campanella
Woodsiaceae Lady-fern Family
Athyrium filix-femina Lady-fern Punta Campanella
PINOPSIDA (GYMNOSPERMS) CONIFERS
Cupressaceae Juniper Family
Cupressus sempervirens Italian Cypress Planted
Juniperus phoenicea Phoenician Juniper Punta Campanella
Pinaceae Pine Family
Pinus halepensis Aleppo Pine Above Positano
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
8� © Naturetrek September 12
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Pinus nigra subsp. nigra Black Pine Monte Faito
Pinus pinea Stone or Umbrella Pine Roadsides
MAGNOLIOPSIDA FLOWERING PLANTS
Magnoliidae
Acanthaceae Bear's-breech Family
Acanthus mollis Bear's-breech Via Capo
Aceraceae Maple Family
Acer opalus Italian Maple Monte Faito
Anacardiaceae Sumach Family
Pistacia lentiscus Mastic Tree Punta Campanella
Apiaceae Carrot Family
Conopodium majus Pignut Monte Faito
Crithmum maritimum Rock Samphire Punta Campanella
Daucus carota Wild Carrot Sorrento Harbour
Elaeoselinum asclepium (leaves) Elaeoselinum Above Positano
Eryngium campestre Field Eryngo Above Positano
Ferrula communis Giant Fennel Roadsides
Smyrnium olusatrum Alexanders Punta Campanella
Tordylium apulum Tordylium Punta Campanella
Apocynaceae Periwinkle Family
Vinca major Greater Periwinkle Punta Campanella
Aralaceae Ivy Family
Hedera helix Ivy Above Positano
Aristolochiaceae Birthwort Family
Aristolochia pallida a Birthwort Above Alberi
Asclepiadaceae Milkweed Family
Vincetoxicum hirundinaria (leaves) Swallow-wort Above Positano
Asteraceae Daisy Family
Anthemis chia - Punta Campanella
Bellis perennis Daisy Lawns in Sorrento
Bellis sylvestris Southern Daisy Punta Campanella
Carduus pycnocephalus Plymouth Thistle Punta Campanella
Centaurea cinerea* a Knapweed Punta Campanella
Centaurea parlatoris subsp. tenorei* a Knapweed Above Positano
Cirsium tenoreanum (leaves) Woolly Thistle Monte Faito
Conyza bonariensis Argentine Fleabane Punta Campanella
Crepis capillaris Smooth Hawk's-beard Vesuvius lower slopes
Dittrichia graveolens Stink Aster Above Positano
Erigeron karvinskianus Mexican Fleabane Walls in Sorrento
Evax pygmaea Evax Punta Campanella
Galactites tomentosa Galactites Punta Campanella
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 9�
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Glebionis segetum Corn Marigold Above Alberi
Helichrysum italicum Italian Everlasting Above Positano
Hyoseris radiata - Capri
Lapsana communis Nipplewort Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Pallenis spinosa (leaves) Pallenis Punta Campanella
Phagnalon rupestre Phagnalon Punta Campanella
Picris hieracioides Hawkweed Oxtongue Capri
Santolina chamaecyparissus Lavender Cotton Below Monte Faito
Senecio vulgaris Groundsel Above Alberi
Sonchus asper Prickly Sowthistle Punta Campanella
Sonchus oleraceus Smooth Sowthistle Punta Campanella
Tragopogon porrifolius Salsify Vesuvius lower slopes
Urospermum dalechampii Urospermum Punta Campanella
Urospermum picroides a Urospermum Above Positano
Betulaceae Birch Family
Alnus incana Grey Alder Above Alberi
Betula pendula Silver Birch Below Monte Faito
Carpinus orientalis Eastern Hornbeam Punta Campanella
Boraginaceae Forget-me-not Family
Borago officinalis Borage Punta Campanella
Echium plantagineum Purple Viper's-bugloss Punta Campanella
Echium vulgare Viper's-bugloss Above Positano
Lithodora rosmarinifolium Rosemary-leaved Gromwell Punta Campanella
Myosotis ramosissima Early Forget-me-not Above Alberi
Symphytum tuberosum Tuberous Comfrey Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Brassicaceae Cabbage Family
Alliaria petiolata Garlic Mustard Monte Faito
Arabis alpina subsp. caucasica Alpine Rock-cress Monte Faito
Arabis rosea Pink Rock-cress Vesuvius lower slopes
Arabis turrita Tower Cress Monte Faito
Brassica oleracea subsp. robertiana Wild Cabbage Above Positano
Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherd’s Purse Punta Campanella
Cardamine hirsuta Hairy Bitter-cress Above Alberi
Cardamine impatiens Cut-leaved Bitter-cress Monte Faito
Cardamine pratense Lady's Smock Termini
Cardamine resedifolia a Bitter-cress Monte Faito
Draba muralis Wall Whitlow-grass Monte Faito
Iberis prutii a Mountain Candytuft Above Positano
Lepidium draba Hoary Cress Punta Campanella
Lobularia maritima Sweet Alison Punta Campanella
Matthiola incana Hoary Stock Walls in Sorrento
Sisymbrium officinale Hedge Mustard Monte Faito
Cactaceae Cactus Family
Opuntia ficus-indica Prickly Pear Naturalised on cliffs
Caprifoliaceae Honeysuckle Family
Lonicera etrusca Etruscan Honeysuckle Punta Campanella
Sambucus nigra Elderberry Near Alberi
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
10� © Naturetrek September 12
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Caryophyllaceae Pink Family
Cerastium glomeratum Sticky Mouse-ear Capri
Cerastium tomentosum Snow-in-Summer Monte Faito
Petrorhagia velutina a Proliferous Pink Vesuvius lower slopes
Polycarpon tetraphyllum Four-leaved Allseed Pavements in Anacapri
Sagina procumbens Procumbent Pearlwort Pavements in Anacapri
Silene italica Italian Catchfly Punta Campanella
Silene latifolia White Campion Punta Campanella
Silene vulgaris Bladder Campion Above Positano
Stellaria media Common Chickweed Punta Campanella
Stellaria neglecta Greater Chickweed Capri
Chenopodiaceae Goosefoot Family
Atriplex halimus Shrubby Orache Punta Campanella
Atriplex prostrata Spear-leaved Orache Punta Campanella
Cistaceae Rock-rose Family
Cistus creticus Pink Cistus Above Positano
Cistus salvifolius Sage-leaved Cistus Punta Campanella
Helianthemum nummularium Rock-rose Above Positano
Convolvulaceae Bindweed Family
Convolvulus althaeoides Mallow-leaved Bindweed Above Positano
Convolvulus althaeoides subsp. tenuissimus Narrow Mallow-leaved Bindweed Punta Campanella
Convolvulus cneorum Silvery Bindweed Above Positano
Crassulaceae Stonecrop Family
Sedum forsterianum a Rock Stonecrop Capri
Sedum litoreum a Stonecrop Punta Campanella
Sedum rupestre Rock Stonecrop Above Positano
Umbilicus rupestris Wall Pennywort Punta Campanella
Ericaceae Heather Family
Erica arborea Tree Heather Punta Campanella
Euphorbiaceae Spurge Family
Euphorbia amygdaloides Wood Spurge Punta Campanella
Euphorbia characias subsp. characias Mediterranean Spurge Punta Campanella
Euphorbia dendroides Tree Spurge Punta Campanella
Euphorbia helioscopia Sun Spurge Punta Campanella
Euphorbia peplus Petty Spurge Above Alberi
Euphorbia spinosa Spiny Spurge Below Monte Faito
Mercurialis annua Annual Mercury Punta Campanella
Fabaceae Pea Family
Anthyllis barba-jovis Jupiter's Beard Punta Campanella
Bituminaria bituminosa Pitch Trefoil Punta Campanella
Calycotome villosa Hairy Thorny Broom Punta Campanella
Ceratonia siliqua Carob or Locust Tree Punta Campanella
Cercis siliquastrum Judas Tree Planted
Chamaecytisus hirsutus Hairy Broom Above Positano
Colutea arborescens Bladder Senna Above Positano
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 11�
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Coronilla scorpioides Annual Scorpion-vetch Punta Campanella
Cytisus villosus a Broom Above Alberi
Genista aetnensis Etna Broom Vesuvius
Hedysarum spinossisimum Spiny Sainfoin Punta Campanella
Hippocrepis (Coronilla) emerus Scorpion Senna Punta Campanella
Lathyrus clymenum a Pea Punta Campanella
Lotus edulis Edible Lotus Punta Campanella
Lotus ornithopodioides a Bird's-foot Trefoil Punta Campanella
Lupinus angustifolius Narrow-leaved Lupin Above Alberi
Medicago arabica Spotted Medick Capri
Medicago orbicularis a Medick Punta Campanella
Medicago polymorpha Toothed Medick Punta Campanella
Melilotus indicus Small Melilot Punta Campanella
Melilotus italicus Italian Melilot Punta Campanella
Ornithopus compressus Compressed Bird's-foot Vesuvius lower slopes
Robinia pseudacacia False Acacia Roadsides
Scorpiurus muricatus Scorpion-vetch Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Spartium junceum Spanish Broom Punta Campanella
Tetragonolobus purpureus Winged Pea Punta Campanella
Trifolium arvense Hare's-foot Clover Vesuvius lower slopes
Trifolium campestre Hop Trefoil Above Positano
Trifolium patense Red Clover Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Trifolium stellatum Starry Clover Punta Campanella
Trifolium striatum Soft Clover Punta Campanella
Vicia bithynica Bithynian Vetch Punta Campanella
Vicia lutea Yellow Vetch Above Alberi
Vicia ochroleuca a Vetch Punta Campanella
Vicia sativa subsp. sativa Fodder Vetch Punta Campanella
Vicia villosa Fodder Vetch Above Positano
Fagaceae Beech Family
Castanea sativa Sweet Chestnut Above Alberi
Fagus sylvatica Beech Monte Faito
Quercus ilex Holm Oak Punta Campanella
Quercus pubescens Downy Oak Punta Campanella
Fumariaceae Fumitory Family
Fumaria capreolata White Ramping Fumitory Punta Campanella
Fumaria muralis subsp. boraei Common Ramping Fumitory Capri
Fumaria officinalis Common Fumitory Punta Campanella
Geraniaceae Crane’s-bill Family
Erodium cicutarium Common Stork’s-bill Capri
Erodium malacoides Mallow-leaved Stork’s-bill Punta Campanella
Geranium dissectum Cut-leaved Crane’s-bill Punta Campanella
Geranium lucidum Shining Crane’s-bill Monte Faito
Geranium molle Dove’s-foot Crane’s-bill Punta Campanella
Geranium purpureum Little Robin Punta Campanella
Geranium rotundifolium Round-leaved Crane's-bill Above Alberi
Lamiaceae Dead-nettle Family
Ajuga reptans Bugle Above Alberi
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
12� © Naturetrek September 12
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Lamium amplexicaule Henbit Dead-nettle Termini
Micromeria graeca a Micromeria Above Positano
Prasium majus Prasium Punta Campanella
Rosmarinus officinalis Rosemary Above Positano
Salvia verbenaca Wild Clary Punta Campanella
Satureja hortensis Summer Savory Punta Campanella
Teucrium fruticans Shrub Germander Above Positano
Lauraceae Bay Family
Laurus nobilis Bay Tree Punta Campanella
Linaceae Flax Family
Linum bienne Pale Flax Punta Campanella
Malvaceae Mallow Family
Althaea hirsuta Hairy Mallow
Lavatera cretica Small Tree Mallow Punta Campanella
Lavatera arborea Tree Mallow Punta Campanella
Malva sylvestris Common Mallow Punta Campanella
Moraceae Mulberry Family
Ficus carica Fig Above Positano
Myrtaceae Myrtle Family
Myrtus communis Myrtle Punta Campanella
Oleaceae Olive Family
Fraxinus ornus Flowering Ash Punta Campanella
Orobanchaceae Broomrape Family
Orobache gracilis Slender Broomrape Above Positano
Orobanche minor Common Broomrape Capri
Orobanche ramosa Branched Broomrape Punta Campanella
Oxalidaceae Wood Sorrel Family
Oxalis pes-caprae Bermuda Buttercup Punta Campanella
Papaveraceae Poppy Family
Chelidonium majus Greater Celandine Roadsides
Papaver rhoeas Common Poppy Roadsides
Plantaginaceae Plantain Family
Plantago arenaria Branched Plantain Punta Campanella
Plantago coronopus Buck’s-horn Plantain
Plantago lanceolata Ribwort Plantain Above Positano
Plantago major Greater Plantain
Platanaceae Plane Family
Platanus x hybrida London Plane Punta Campanella
Polygalaceae Milkwort Family
Polygala nicaeensis Nice Milkwort Above Positano
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 13�
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Polygonaceae Knotweed Family
Rumex bucephalophorus Horned Dock Above Alberi
Rumex crispus Curled Dock Punta Campanella
Rumex scutatus French Sorrel / Rubble Dock Vesuvius lower slopes
Primulaceae Primrose Family
Anagallis arvensis subsp. foemina Blue Pimpernel Punta Campanella
Cyclamen repandum Spring Cyclamen Above Positano
Ranunculaceae Buttercup Family
Anemone apennina Blue Anemone Monte Faito
Anemone hortensis an Anemone Punta Campanella
Clematis flammula Fragrant Clematis Punta Campanella
Helleborus foetidus Stinking Hellebore Monte Faito
Ranunculus paludosus Jersey Buttercup Capri
Ranunculus velutinus - Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Resedaceae Mignonette Family
Reseda alba White Mignonette Punta Campanella
Rhamnaceae Buckthorn Family
Rhamnus alaternus Mediterranean Buckthorn Punta Campanella
Rosaceae Rose Family
Crataegus monogyna Hawthorn Punta Campanella
Fragaria vesca Wild Strawberry Punta Campanella
Pyrus amygdaliformis Almond-leaved Pear Punta Campanella
Rosa canina Dog Rose Punta Campanella
Sanguisorba minor Salad Burnet Punta Campanella
Rubiaceae Bedstraw Family
Cruciata laevipes Crosswort Punta Campanella
Galium aparine Cleavers Punta Campanella
Galium mollugo Hedge Bedstraw Punta Campanella
Rubia peregrina Wild Madder Punta Campanella
Sherardia arvensis Field Madder Punta Campanella
Salicaceae Willow Family
Populus x canadensis Hybrid Black Poplar Punta Campanella
Santalaceae Sandalwood Family
Osyris alba Osyris Punta Campanella
Saxifragaceae Saxifrage Family
Saxifraga granulata Meadow Saxifrage Monte Faito
Saxifraga rotundifolia Round-leaved Saxifrage Monte Faito
Scrophulariaceae Figwort Family
Antirrhinum majus Common Snapdragon Roadsides
Antirrhinum siculum Sicilian Snapdragon Common on Walls
Cymbalaria muralis Ivy-leaved Toadflax Pompei
Linaria purpurea Purple Toadflax Capri
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
14� © Naturetrek September 12
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Scrophularia canina French Figwort Above Positano
Scrophularia peregrina Italian (Nettle-leaved) Figwort Above Alberi
Verbascum rotundifolium subsp. rotundifolium* Round-leaved Mullein Above Positano
Verbascum sinuatum a Mullein Above Positano
Veronica cymbalaria Cymbalaria-leaved Speedwell Punta Campanella
Solanaceae Nightshade Family
Solanum nigrum Black Nightshade Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Thymelaeaceae Daphne Family
Daphne gnidium (leaves) Mediterranean Daphne Capri
Daphne laureola Spurge Laurel Monte Faito
Thymelaea tartonraira - Above Positano
Ulmaceae Elm Family
Ulmus minor Small-leaved Elm Punta Campanella
Urticaceae Nettle Family
Parietaria judaica Pellitory-of-the-Wall Punta Campanella
Parietaria officinalis Eastern Pellitory-of-the-Wall Punta Campanella
Urtica membranacea Mediterranean Nettle Punta Campanella
Valerianaceae Valerian Family
Centranthus ruber Red Valerian Punta Campanella
Verbenaceae Vervain Family
Lantana camera Lantana Planted
Violaceae Violet Family
Viola eugeniae* a Pansy Monte Faito
Viola odorata Sweet Violet Monte Faito
Viola riviniana Common Dog Violet Monte Faito
Liliidae
Agarvaceae Century Plant Family
Agava americana Century Plant Naturalised
Araceae Arum Family
Arum italicum subsp. italicum Large Cuckoo Pint Punta Campanella
Arisarum vulgare Friar's Cowl Punta Campanella
Cyperaceae Sedge Family
Carex caryophyllea Spring Sedge Above Positano
Dioscoreaceae Black Bryony Family
Tamus communis Black Bryony Punta Campanella
Iridaceae Iris Family
Crocus vernus Spring Crocus Monte Faito
Gladiolus italicus Field Gladiolus Punta Campanella
Iris albicans a White Iris Near Prezzano
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 15�
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Iris foetidissima Stinking Iris Termini
Iris germanica Tall Bearded Iris Capri
Juncaceae Rush Family
Luzula forsteri Southern Woodrush Above Alberi
Luzula pilosa Hairy Woodrush Monte Faito
Liliaceae Lily Family
Allium ampeloprasum Wild Leek Punta Campanella
Allium neapolitanum Naples Garlic Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Allium subhirsutum - Marina di Puolo Capitolo
Allium triquetum Three-cornered Leek Near Termini
Allium paradoxum Few-flowered Leek Punta Campanella
Allium roseum Rosy Garlic Punta Campanella
Asparagus acutifolius Prickly Asparagus Punta Campanella
Asphodelus aestivus Common Asphodel Punta Campanella
Asphodelus albus White Asphodel Monte Faito
Asphodelus ramosus an Asphodel Punta Campanella
Muscari comosum Tassel Hyacinth Punta Campanella
Narcissus tazetta Polyanthus Narcissus Capri
Ornithogalum angustifolium Common Star of Bethlehem Capri
Ruscus aculeatus Butcher’s Broom Above Positano
Scilla bifolia Alpine Squill Monte Faito
Smilax aspera Common Smilax Punta Campanella
Urginea maritima Sea Squill Punta Campanella
Orchidaceae Orchid Family
Anacamptis pyramidalis Pyramidal Orchid Punta Campanella
Cephalanthera longifolia Sword-leaved Helleborine Above Positano
Ophrys araneola an Early Spider Orchid Punta Campanella
Ophrys bombyliflora Bumblebee Orchid Capri
Ophrys exaltata Sicilian Spider Orchid Above Alberi & Capri
Ophrys sphegodes Early Spider Orchid Vesuvius lower slopes
Orchis italica Naked Man Orchid Punta Campanella
Orchis morio Green-winged Orchid Vesuvius lower slopes
Orchis papilionacea Pink Butterfly Orchid Above Positano
Orchis pauciflora Sparse-flowered Orchid Below Monte Faito
Orchis provincialis Provence Orchid Above Alberi
Serapias lingua Tongue Orchid Punta Campanella
Serapias parviflora Small-flowered Tongue Orchid Above Positano
Poaceae Grass Family
Aira caryophyllea Silver Hair-grass Vesuvius lower slopes
Ampelodesmos mauritanicus Mauritanian Vine Reed Punta Campanella
Anisantha diandra Great Brome Punta Campanella
Anisantha madritensis Madrid Brome Punta Campanella
Anthoxanthum odoratum Sweet Vernal Grass Above Alberi
Arundo donax Giant Reed Punta Campanella
Avena barbata Bristle Oat Punta Campanella
Avena sterilis Winter Wild Oat Punta Campanella
Briza maxima Large Quaking Grass Punta Campanella
Calamagrostis epigejos Wood Small-reed Above Positano
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
16� © Naturetrek September 12
Group/Species English Name (if any) Location
Dactylis glomerata Cock's-foot Punta Campanella
Hordeum murinum Wall Barley Punta Campanella
Hyparrhenia hirta - Punta Campanella
Koeleria macrantha Crested Hair-grass Capri
Lagurus ovatus Hare’s-foot Grass
Lolium perenne Perennial Rye-grass Capri
Paspalum sp. Signal-grass Above Positano
Poa annua Annual Meadow-grass Punta Campanella
Vulpia bromoides Squirrel-tail Fescue Above Positano
FUNGI:
Trametes versicolor Turkeytail Capri
Auricularia auricula-judae Jelly Ear Pompei
Birds ( = recorded but not counted; H = Heard only; LO = leader only)
April
Common name Scientific name 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
1 Scopoli's Shearwater Calonectris diomedea
2 Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
3 Little Egret Egretta garzetta
4 Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus
5 Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus
6 Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus LO
7 Common Buzzard Buteo buteo
8 Bonelli's Eagle Aquila fasciata
9 Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus
10 Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus
11 Eleonora's Falcon Falco eleonorae
12 Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus
13 Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos
14 Yellow-legged Gull Gull Larus michahellis
15 Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis
16 Common Pigeon Columba livia feral
17 Common Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus
18 European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur H H H H H H H
19 Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto
20 Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus H H
21 Tawny Owl Strix aluco LO
22 Little Owl Athene noctua H
23 Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba
24 Common Swift Apus apus
25 European Roller Coracias garrulus
26 Eurasian Hoopoe Upupa epops
27 Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla
28 Great Spotted Woodpecker Dendrocopos major H
29 European Green Woodpecker Picus viridis
30 Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator
31 Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus
32 Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius H H
33 Common Magpie Pica pica
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
© Naturetrek September 12 17�
April
Common name Scientific name 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
34 Hooded Crow Corvus cornix
35 Northern Raven Corvus corax
36 Coal Tit Parus ater H
37 Great Tit Parus major H H
38 Eurasian Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus
39 Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica
40 Common House Martin Delichon urbicum
41 Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti H H H H H
42 Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus
43 Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita H
44 Western Bonelli's Warbler Phylloscopus bonelli
45 Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix
46 Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla H
47 Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis
48 Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans
49 Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala
50 Common Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla
51 Goldcrest Regulus regulus H
52 Eurasian Wren Troglodytes troglodytes H H H
53 Eurasian Nuthatch Sitta europaea
54 Short-toed Treecreeper Certhis brachydactyla
55 Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris
56 Common Blackbird Turdus merula
57 Song Thrush Turdus philomelos H
58 Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus
59 European Robin Erithacus rubecula
60 Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos H H
61 Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros LO
62 Whinchat Saxicola rubetra LO
63 European Stonechat Saxicola rubicola
64 Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe
65 Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica
66 Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius
67 Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca
68 Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis
69 Semicollared Flycatcher Ficedula semitorquata
70 Italian Sparrow Passer domesticus italiae
71 Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus
72 Black-headed Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava feldegg
73 Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea
74 White Wagtail Motacilla alba
75 Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis
76 Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs
77 European Serin Serinus serinus
78 European Greenfinch Carduelis chloris
79 European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis H
80 Common Linnet Carduelis cannabina
Italy - The Sorrento Peninsula Tour Report
18� © Naturetrek September 12
April
Common name Scientific name 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Butterflies
Papilionidae
1 Swallowtail Papilio machaon
2 Southern Festoon Zerynthia polyxena
Pieridae
3 Small White Artogeia rapae
4 Southern Small White Artogeia mannii
5 Clouded Yellow Colias crocea
6 Cleopatra Gonepteryx cleopatra
7 Brimstone Gonepteryx rhamni
Lycaenidae
8 Holly Blue Celastrina argiolus
9 Green-underside Blue Glaucopsyche alexis
10 Common Blue Polyommatus icarus
11 Red Admiral Vanessa atalanta
12 Painted Lady Vanessa cardui
Satyrinae
13 Speckled Wood Pararge aegeria aegeria
14 Wall Brown Lasiommata megera
Moths
1 Silver Y Moth Autographa gamma
Other Invertebrates
1 Egyptian Grasshopper Anacridium aegyptium
2 a Gendarme Bug Lygaeus sp.
3 a Beefly Bombylius sp.
4 a Hoverfly Scaeva pyrastri
5 a Carpenter Bee Xylocopa sp.
6 Honey Bee Apis mellifera
7 Buff-tailed Bumblebee Bombus terrestris
8 a Chafer Oxythyrea funesta
9 Two-spot Ladybird Adalia bipunctata
10 Bloody-nosed Beetle Timarcha tenebricosa
11 a Millipede Diplopoda sp
12 Pill Woodlouse Glomeris marginata
Reptiles & Amphibians
1 Italian Wall Lizard Podarcis sicula
Molluscs
1 Brown-lipped Banded Snail Cepaea nemoralis
2 Garden Snail Cornu aspersum
3 Clausiliid Snail Papillifera bidens
Recommended