Give wildlife space, ask Italian tourism chiefs

Tourism authorities in Grente, in Italy’s South Tyrol, are trying to raise awareness among pilots of the risks of flying too close to wildlife.

“The Grente is a popular launch site for paragliding and cross-country flights. At the same time, it lies within a sensitive alpine habitat that is home to species such as chamois, golden eagles and black grouse,” say authorities.

“Together with the Rieserferner-Ahrn Nature Park and the local hunting community, we would like to raise awareness and encourage considerate flying. Our aim is not to restrict paragliding, but to help protect local wildlife by providing clear and practical information.”

They are asking pilots to keep a safe horizontal and vertical distance from wildlife and not to deliberately approach animals or circle above them at low altitude.

“Avoid low-level flying over forests, forest edges, the tree line, and rocky cliffs. Take particular care in spring and early summer, during winter, and in the early morning and evening. If an animal shows signs of disturbance, increase your distance and continue your flight.”

Situated to the east of Bruneck and just to the north of Kronplatz, Grente is a classic site in the Antholz valley for making big triangles and crossing the main chain of the Alps into Austria and the Pustertal.

More information on the advice to pilots can be found here.