Babia Góra National Park

Birds

Babia Góra National Park is also home to a variety of fascinating bird species, many of which are specially adapted to the high-altitude forests and meadows of the Beskid Mountains.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
A majestic bird of prey, the golden eagle is one of the top avian predators in the park. It soars over open landscapes, hunting for hares, rodents, and birds.

Eurasian Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium passerinum)
One of Europe’s smallest owls, this species resides in the park’s coniferous forests. It is an active predator despite its small size, preying on songbirds and small mammals.

Ural Owl (Strix uralensis)
A larger owl species, the Ural owl is often heard calling through the dense forest at night. It hunts rodents, birds, and other small animals.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
This large and rare forest grouse is known for its dramatic mating displays, where males fan their tails and produce deep, clicking calls to attract females.

Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
Unlike its more common white stork relative, the black stork is shy and prefers forested wetland areas for nesting. It is often seen near streams and rivers in the park.

Three-toed Woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus)
A specialist of old-growth forests, this woodpecker forages on dead trees, searching for insects and larvae. It plays an essential role in controlling insect populations.

Hazel Grouse (Tetrastes bonasia)
A well-camouflaged bird, the hazel grouse is a quiet resident of the park’s forests. It is known for its subtle whistling calls and secretive behavior.

Common Raven (Corvus corax)
Intelligent and highly adaptable, ravens are found throughout the park. They are often seen soaring above the mountains or scavenging in the forests.

Eurasian Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)
This bird is an important seed disperser, especially for pine and spruce trees. It is often spotted in the higher-elevation forests of Babia Góra.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A skilled hunter, the northern goshawk is a powerful raptor that preys on birds and small mammals. It is known for its speed and precision in dense forest environments.

Babia Góra National Park’s diverse ecosystems provide a haven for these remarkable species, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Babia Góra National Park, located in southern Poland near the border with Slovakia, is home to a rich variety of wildlife, particularly in its mountainous and forested landscapes. The park is dominated by Babia Góra, the highest peak in the Beskid Mountains, and is known for its diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense forests to alpine meadows. Here are some of the more popular species that can be found within the park:

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
One of the most iconic species of the region, the brown bear is a powerful predator that roams the remote forests of Babia Góra. Though sightings are rare, these animals play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the park.

Gray Wolf (Canis lupus)
A top predator in the park, the gray wolf moves through the dense forests, preying on deer and smaller mammals. They are elusive but vital for controlling prey populations and maintaining the health of the ecosystem.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
This elusive and solitary feline is one of the most mysterious creatures of Babia Góra. It is well-adapted to the forested environment, using its keen eyesight and stealth to hunt roe deer and hares.

Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
The red deer is one of the most commonly seen large mammals in the park. These majestic animals roam the forests and meadows, especially during the autumn rut when males can be heard calling to attract females.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Smaller than the red deer, roe deer are abundant in the park’s mixed forests and clearings. They are agile and alert, often seen at dawn and dusk feeding on vegetation.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
These sturdy and adaptable mammals forage in the undergrowth for roots, tubers, and small animals. Wild boars play an important role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil while searching for food.

European Pine Marten (Martes martes)
This agile predator is known for its climbing abilities and can often be found in the park’s forests, hunting rodents, birds, and insects. Its thick fur makes it well-suited to the colder climate.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) (non-bird category crossover)
Although technically a bird, the western capercaillie is often included in discussions of the park’s iconic wildlife due to its large size and striking appearance. Males are known for their elaborate courtship displays during the breeding season.

Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra)
Though more common in the Tatra Mountains, a small population of chamois can occasionally be spotted in the park’s rocky outcrops and alpine meadows. These agile climbers are well adapted to steep terrain.

Eurasian Badger (Meles meles)
A nocturnal inhabitant of the park, the badger is a burrowing mammal that feeds on earthworms, insects, and small vertebrates. It creates extensive underground tunnel systems known as setts.