Date: 19 September 2026, 6.30 pm
Venue: Cassio, near Parma
The mighty bellow of stags in rut: this is what we’ll be trying to hear this evening, as we walk through the woods and meadows of the Val Baganza just after sunset. At this time of year, male stags challenge one another through this powerful vocalisation (before locking antlers) to win the favour of the females, before preparing for the rigours of winter.
Val Baganza, between Terenzo, Calestano and Berceto, is home to the largest population of stags in the province of Parma. Walking along cart tracks and footpaths, we will seek out the ideal spot to listen to the bellowing of these elegant lords of the forest, which reaches its peak intensity at this time of year. This evening, we will undertake a walk/search, with plenty of stops, to find the best spots for listening and, if possible, observing.
Departure at 6.30 pm from Val Baganza, approximately at Cassio Parmense (the guide reserves the right to make minor adjustments to the location to ensure the best possible sightings of the animals; precise sat-nav coordinates will be provided to those who have booked the day before),
Minimum 6 participants, maximum 25.
A 2–2.5-hour hike with a maximum elevation gain of 200 metres along tracks and paths. A torch is essential; a head torch is preferable.
Expected finish time around 9.00–9.30 pm.
Participation fee: €15 per person for adults and €10 for children under 12.
Winter hiking clothing and walking boots are required (there may be some mud), as well as a torch, water and a snack (it is advisable to eat something beforehand, as it will be difficult to have a proper picnic along the trail given the season).
Booking is mandatory.
