Puglia’s charm lies not only in its sun-soaked coastlines and whitewashed towns but also in its authentic countryside life. Staying in a trullo — one of the region’s traditional stone dwellings — means immersing yourself in nature, where rustic beauty meets rural simplicity.
These centuries-old homes are naturally cool in summer and built from thick, porous limestone — perfect for maintaining comfort but also inviting to small, harmless visitors seeking shade.
Encountering a few local creatures is simply part of the authentic Puglian experience, a gentle reminder that you’re living in harmony with nature.
Here’s a guide to what you might encounter during your countryside stay and how to handle it calmly and respectfully.
1. Woodlice: The Tiny Night Wanderers
Known in Italian as Porcellini di terra (or affectionately cazzodde in local dialect), woodlice thrive in damp, shaded environments. They emerge mainly at night, feeding on organic material, and curl into perfect little spheres when disturbed — a harmless defense mechanism.
What to Do:
Sweep them gently with a dustpan and release them outside. They pose no threat and disappear quickly once relocated.
2. Millipedes: The Slow and Shy Crawlers
Called Millepiedi in Italian, millipedes are harmless nocturnal creatures sometimes seen on walls or floors, especially after rain. When handled roughly, they release a mild odor — their natural protection against predators.
What to Do:
Avoid crushing them. Use a paper or tissue to remove them gently and set them outside. The odor fades quickly once they’re gone.
3. Country Scorpions: Small, Calm, and Harmless
Don’t let the word scorpion alarm you — Puglian countryside scorpions are tiny, non-aggressive, and completely harmless to humans. They prefer the cool cracks in trullo walls that mimic their natural rocky habitat.
What to Do:
Stay calm. Simply scoop them up with cardboard or a small container and release them outdoors. There’s no need to kill them — they help keep the natural balance of the ecosystem.
4. Cervone Snakes: Gentle Guardians of the Countryside
The Cervone snake (a large, non-venomous species) is one of the most fascinating — and misunderstood — inhabitants of rural Puglia. Averaging 1.2 to 1.3 meters in length, it may look intimidating but is completely harmless and plays a vital role in controlling rodent populations.
What to Do:
If you spot one, give it space. Tap a stick nearby or make noise — the snake will retreat immediately. These elegant reptiles are more afraid of humans than we are of them.
Remember, their presence helps maintain a healthy countryside ecosystem.
Embracing the Authentic Side of Puglia
Living close to nature is part of what makes a stay in Puglia’s countryside so special. The occasional visit from a small creature is not an inconvenience — it’s a reminder of the region’s harmony with the natural world.
At Puglia Paradise, all our villas and trulli are carefully maintained and regularly treated to ensure comfort and peace of mind, without disturbing the delicate rural balance.
Approach each encounter with curiosity, not fear — because here, nature isn’t an intruder. It’s your charming, quiet neighbor.
