The reserve covers a surface area of about 1000 hectares, comprising the Brindisi and San Pietro Vernotico areas, and is tasked with protecting the last remaining strip of the forest that at one time covered the majority of the coast. Cerano Forest, also known as Tramazzone, is a classical example of a wood; a relic containing indigenous plant species which means that its protection is of the utmost importance. Among the area’s most interesting species are holm oaks (Quercus ilex), elms (Ulmus minor) and hop hornbeams (Ostrya carpinifolia). With regard to fauna, there are numerous species of reptiles and amphibians, some of which are listed in the Libro Rosso degli Animali d'Italia (Red Book of Animals of Italy).Of the four species listed, the most significant is the Italian tree frog (Hyla intermedia). This nature reserve is not only a beautiful area but also performs the task of conserving and re-establishing the natural environments in order to preserve the region’s rich naturalistic heritage.
