Liesjärvi National Park

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Liesjärvi National Park, located in southern Finland, is known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and rich biodiversity. The park is home to a variety of mammals and other wildlife that thrive in its untouched wilderness. Below are some of the more popular species found in the park.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
Although rarely seen, brown bears roam the deeper forests of Liesjärvi. These massive omnivores are shy and tend to avoid humans, but they play a vital role in the ecosystem by controlling prey populations and dispersing seeds.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
This elusive feline predator is Finland’s only wild big cat. The Eurasian lynx prefers dense woodlands where it hunts hares, rodents, and even small deer. Its thick fur and keen eyesight make it an adept nocturnal hunter.

European Elk (Alces alces)
Known as moose in North America, the European elk is the largest land mammal in Finland. These impressive herbivores are commonly seen in the park’s marshy areas and along lakeshores, feeding on aquatic plants and tree shoots.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A common sight in Liesjärvi, the red fox is a highly adaptable predator. It hunts small mammals and birds but also scavenges for food in the forest. Its thick, bushy tail and reddish coat help it blend into its surroundings.

Raccoon Dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides)
Originally from East Asia, the raccoon dog has established itself in Finland. This small, nocturnal canid is known for its distinctive masked face and thick fur, which helps it survive the cold winters.

European Badger (Meles meles)
Badgers are nocturnal diggers that create extensive burrow systems in the park’s forests. They are omnivores, feeding on everything from earthworms and insects to berries and small mammals.

Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber)
Reintroduced to Finland after becoming extinct, the Eurasian beaver plays an essential role in shaping wetland habitats. By building dams and lodges, beavers create ecosystems that benefit many other species.

European Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
These graceful deer are common in Liesjärvi’s meadows and woodlands. They are known for their reddish-brown summer coats and white rumps, as well as their ability to adapt to different forest environments.

European Pine Marten (Martes martes)
A secretive and agile predator, the pine marten thrives in Liesjärvi’s dense forests. It hunts small rodents, birds, and insects and is an excellent tree climber.

Birds

Liesjärvi National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse habitats supporting a wide variety of bird species. Below are some of the most notable avian residents of the park.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
This large forest grouse is famous for its dramatic mating displays. Males fan out their tail feathers, produce deep calls, and engage in combat to attract females during the breeding season.

Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
The largest woodpecker in Europe, this striking black bird with a red crown is often heard drumming against tree trunks. It plays an essential role in the ecosystem by creating nesting cavities used by other birds and mammals.

Ural Owl (Strix uralensis)
A large and powerful owl, the Ural owl is a common resident of Liesjärvi’s old-growth forests. It preys on small mammals and birds, using its silent flight and keen vision to hunt at night.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A symbol of Finland’s wetlands, the common crane is a majestic bird with a loud trumpeting call. These elegant birds breed in Liesjärvi and can be seen in marshy areas and near lakes.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the world’s largest owls, the Eurasian eagle-owl has piercing orange eyes and powerful talons. It is a top predator in the park, hunting rabbits, rodents, and other birds.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Finland’s national bird, the whooper swan, is often seen gliding across Liesjärvi’s lakes. Recognizable by its long neck and bright yellow-and-black beak, it has a loud, trumpeting call.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
This impressive bird of prey is Europe’s largest eagle. It soars over Liesjärvi’s lakes and forests, searching for fish, waterfowl, and carrion.

Great Grey Shrike (Lanius excubitor)
A predatory songbird, the great grey shrike is known for impaling its prey on thorns or barbed wire. It hunts small birds and insects, often perching on treetops to survey its territory.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A powerful forest-dwelling raptor, the Northern goshawk is an agile hunter that preys on birds and small mammals. It is often seen darting through the trees in pursuit of its prey.

Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus)
This woodpecker specializes in feeding on bark beetle larvae and is an indicator of healthy, old-growth forests. It is distinguished by its black-and-white plumage and a yellow cap on males.

Liesjärvi National Park offers incredible opportunities for wildlife and birdwatching, making it a prime destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re trekking through the forests or exploring the lakeshores, there’s always a chance to encounter some of Finland’s most fascinating species.