The center is located in the Bosco Pantano, a rare protected forest ecosystem that maintains characteristics of primeval Mediterranean woodland.
It serves as one of the most active Mediterranean centers for the recovery and rehabilitation of Caretta caretta sea turtles.
The oasis features a specialized laboratory and veterinary clinic dedicated exclusively to the treatment of injured marine reptiles.
It is situated at the delta of the Sinni River, creating a unique brackish water environment for local species.
The site hosts a botanical garden highlighting endemic plant species of the Basilicata coastline.
The area is an important nesting ground for migratory birds, including several rare species of herons and raptors.
WWF Policoro Herakleia is a specialized wildlife recovery center located within the Bosco Pantano di Policoro, one of the last remaining remnants of coastal forest in Italy. The facility functions primarily as a rehabilitation center for injured sea turtles and wild fauna, focusing on the conservation of biodiversity in the Ionian Sea. It manages an extensive area spanning approximately 15 hectares that includes a diverse mix of wetlands, meadows, and Mediterranean scrub. The site is a registered WWF Oasis and works in close collaboration with the Italian Coast Guard to rescue and treat loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Education is a core component, with onsite displays explaining the biological threats faced by local marine and terrestrial ecosystems. The center serves as a critical stopover point for migratory bird species moving between Europe and Africa.
The wooden observation decks overlooking the restored wetland pools.
Bring binoculars as the dense vegetation and wetland areas are ideal for birdwatching.
Wear insect repellent, especially during the warmer months, due to the humid forest and wetland environment.
Contact the center in advance to check for guided tour availability, as public access to certain rehabilitation areas is restricted.
Do not attempt to touch or feed the animals in the recovery pens; do not stray off-trail into the dense forest undergrowth.
Visits are often subject to seasonality and prior booking requirements; closed to general walk-in traffic during specific conservation-heavy periods.
Maintain silence near recovery enclosures to avoid stressing the animals; stay strictly on marked paths to protect the fragile forest ecosystem.
