Biebrza Overview
Biebrza National Park, known locally as Biebrzański Park Narodowy, is the largest national park in Poland, covering an area of approximately 592 square miles (1,535 square kilometers).
Located in the northeastern part of the country, it is situated within the Podlaskie Voivodeship and follows the course of the Biebrza River. The park is renowned for its vast wetlands, one of the most pristine and ecologically significant marshland areas in Europe, making it a critical refuge for biodiversity.
The landscape of Biebrza National Park is dominated by extensive peat bogs, floodplains, and wet meadows, interspersed with riverine forests and sand dunes. The Biebrza River meanders through the park, creating a dynamic system of oxbow lakes, marshes, and swamps that change with seasonal flooding.
The Red Marsh, or Czerwone Bagno, is one of the park’s most famous areas, known for its untouched, primeval character. The park’s terrain varies from open wetlands to dry pine forests, and in some sections, alder and birch woodlands provide a striking contrast to the expansive marshes.
Biebrza National Park is particularly celebrated for its exceptional birdlife, attracting birdwatchers from around the world. It serves as a crucial breeding and stopover site for migratory birds, with over 270 recorded species. Among the most iconic are the greater spotted eagle, aquatic warbler, and black stork. The park is one of the last strongholds of the aquatic warbler, one of Europe’s most endangered songbirds.
Mammals such as the European elk, which thrives in the marshy environment, are commonly sighted, while beavers play an essential role in shaping the park’s waterways. Wolves, lynxes, and otters inhabit the forests and wetlands, though they are more elusive. Amphibians and reptiles, including various frog species and grass snakes, are also well represented due to the park’s rich water sources.
One of the park’s most popular features is its vast system of trails and observation points designed for wildlife viewing. Raised wooden boardwalks lead through the wetlands, offering safe and scenic access to key areas without disturbing the fragile ecosystem.
The Tsar’s Road (Carska Droga), a historic route through the park, provides an excellent driving option with numerous stops for birdwatching and photography. Kayaking and canoeing along the Biebrza River allow visitors to experience the park from the water, offering unique perspectives on the wildlife and landscapes.
Cycling routes and hiking paths traverse the drier areas, while in winter, cross-country skiing provides an alternative way to explore.
Conservation efforts in Biebrza National Park have been focused on preserving its delicate wetland ecosystems, which are under threat from drainage, agriculture, and climate change. The park has successfully maintained its biodiversity through careful water management and habitat restoration projects, ensuring the protection of endangered species such as the aquatic warbler. It is also part of the European Natura 2000 network, reinforcing its importance as a protected area.
Challenges remain, including balancing tourism with conservation needs and managing the impact of invasive species, but the park’s management continues to emphasize ecological integrity while allowing sustainable public access.