The Giovetto Natural Reserve was officially established in 1983 in the territory of the Altopiano del Sole, in the province of Brescia. In the municipality of Borno, it rises from an altitude of 1,200 metres to 2,300 metres above sea level.

Unspoilt natural landscapes, for an area rich in biodiversity.
Here, nature is protected and preserved, creating an ideal environment for many unique species.

The protected area is about 80% forest, with an extension of 650 hectares, and is almost completely covered with spruce trees and is populated by several animal species: foxes, beech martens, squirrels, hares, deer and various birds. Among the most surprising species and in spite of its size is a very special insect, the “Rufa Ant”.

These fascinating insects play a crucial role in the ecosystem, creating a network of complex interactions.

The Giovetto Reserve is the first area in Europe to have created a protective environment for this small insect, which performs a forest defense funcJon, counteracting the activity of species that are harmful to the ecosystem.

The Rufa Ant is therefore a valuable and important species for the biological balance of the environment.

The ants are also skilled builders. Their nests are small masterpieces of structure and social organisation.
The complex ant hills can contain between 200,000 and 500,000 specimens and appear to consist of intricate tunnels that act as a safe haven for the colony, protecting it from the weather and predators.

Inside the nests are numerous small ch ambers, on the surface are small holes, which in rainy or cold weather are hastily plugged by the working ants in order to protect the colony from possible flooding or abrupt temperature changes. The same openings can also be enlarged in size to better ventilate the environment inside the nest.

In spring, when the sun begins to warm the earth, life begins within the colony. The workers ants warm themselves on top of the nest and transport this warmth inside the nest.

Inside each nest is the queen, easily recognisable by her body size, which is much larger than that of the working ants.

A visit to the Giovetto regional park is an excellent opportunity to see the Rufa Ants at work.
A place to be discovered in full respect of the common goals of protecJon and development that are entrusted to the community and our common sense, as a sign of respect for such a magical place.