Su Pardu - Sa grutta 'e Scusi (C-401B)

The trail passes near the natural sinkholes of Sa Grutta e’ Scusi, a doline environment of karst origin which opens in the Su Pardu plateau and stretches for approximately a hundred metres. It was in this cave that the Speleomantes imperialis, better known as the Imperial cave salamander was first discovered. This species is endemic to central and south-eastern Sardinia.

Similar to a lizard, the Salamander has no lungs and absorbs oxygen through its skin, which always remains damp. It lives in caves and rocky fissures, but never ventures into the water. One peculiar idiosyncrasy of this species is that it releases a strong-smelling substance if handled. Continuing down the trail towards the provincial road, you can enjoy views of the village of Villasalto and the mountains to the south.