Narew National Park

Narew Overview

Narew National Park, known locally as Narwiański Park Narodowy, is located in northeastern Poland and covers an area of approximately 73 square miles (189 square kilometers).

Established in 1996, the park is situated in the Podlaskie Voivodeship and is centered around the Narew River, which gives the park its unique landscape and ecological significance.

The river’s complex system of intertwining channels and oxbow lakes forms an extensive marshland, making it one of the most unique wetland ecosystems in Europe. The park is sometimes called the “Polish Amazon” due to the river’s braided channels that create a maze of waterways, islands, and reed beds.

The landscape of Narew National Park is dominated by wetlands, peat bogs, and floodplains, interspersed with riparian forests and meadows. The Narew River, which flows through the park, is its defining feature, carving a network of water channels that create a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

The vegetation is lush and consists of reed beds, sedge meadows, and willow thickets, which provide an essential habitat for a variety of wildlife. The park is particularly important for preserving Poland’s disappearing wetland ecosystems, which are vital for biodiversity.

The park is home to a rich array of wildlife, with an emphasis on bird species due to its status as a significant stopover for migratory birds. Among the most notable species are the Eurasian bittern, black stork, white-tailed eagle, and corn crake.

It is also an essential breeding ground for wetland-dependent birds such as the aquatic warbler and the greater spotted eagle. In addition to its birdlife, the park supports a variety of mammals, including European beavers, otters, red deer, and wild boars. The wetland environment is also ideal for amphibians, with numerous frog and toad species found throughout the park.

One of the most popular features of the park is the Narew River itself, which allows for unique exploration via wooden boats, canoes, and kayaks. Unlike traditional river systems, the Narew’s braided channels create an intricate water network that visitors can navigate, making it one of the most immersive ways to experience the park.

The “Water Path” near Kurowo allows visitors to explore the park by boat, offering a distinctive and peaceful way to observe the rich birdlife and marshland scenery. Kurowo, home to the park’s visitor center, also has an educational trail that provides insights into the wetland ecosystem.

Visitors can explore the park in multiple ways, with birdwatching, kayaking, and hiking being among the most popular activities. Observation towers strategically placed throughout the park provide excellent vantage points for birdwatchers and photographers.

Wooden boardwalks and nature trails allow hikers to traverse the marshy terrain while experiencing the park’s unique landscapes up close. Guided tours are available, offering expert insights into the park’s ecological significance and conservation efforts.

Conservation in Narew National Park faces challenges due to changes in hydrology and human impact. The regulation of the Narew River in past decades has affected the natural water dynamics, leading to habitat alterations. Efforts are ongoing to restore the natural flow of the river and maintain the wetland ecosystem.

The park’s management focuses on sustainable tourism, habitat restoration, and water conservation to preserve its unique biodiversity. Despite these challenges, conservation efforts have been successful in maintaining critical habitats for many rare bird species and wetland-dependent wildlife.

Park Map

Narew National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Narew National Park, located in northeastern Poland, is a unique wetland ecosystem centered around the Narew River, often called the “Polish Amazon” due to its complex network of intertwining river channels. This park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, particularly mammals, amphibians, and fish, that thrive in the marshy terrain.

Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)
A highly skilled swimmer, the Eurasian otter is one of the park’s most elusive yet fascinating inhabitants. It thrives in the waterways of the Narew River, preying on fish and amphibians. Its playful nature and streamlined body make it a captivating sight when spotted.

European Beaver (Castor fiber)
Once nearly extinct in Poland, the European beaver has made a strong comeback and is now a key species in Narew National Park. These industrious rodents shape the landscape by constructing dams and lodges, creating vital wetland habitats for other species.

Moose (Alces alces)
The moose is the largest land mammal in Poland and a prominent species in the park’s wetlands. These solitary herbivores roam the swampy areas, feeding on aquatic plants, twigs, and bark.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A rare but powerful predator, the Eurasian lynx inhabits the park’s forested areas. It is known for its keen eyesight and stealthy hunting techniques, primarily preying on roe deer and hares.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Commonly found in the park’s woodlands, wild boars are adaptable omnivores that feed on roots, fruits, and small animals. They play a significant role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil while foraging.

European Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis)
This semi-aquatic reptile is a rare sight in Poland but thrives in the park’s slow-moving waters. It is distinguished by its dark shell with yellow speckles and spends much of its time basking in the sun.

Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
A non-venomous snake often found near water, the grass snake is an excellent swimmer and primarily preys on amphibians. It is easily recognizable by its olive-green body and distinctive yellow collar behind the head.

Northern Birch Mouse (Sicista betulina)
This tiny rodent is known for its ability to leap impressive distances despite its small size. It is nocturnal and prefers damp meadows and marshlands where it feeds on seeds and insects.

European Polecat (Mustela putorius)
A skilled nocturnal hunter, the European polecat is often found near water, preying on rodents, amphibians, and birds. It is known for its dark fur and distinctive facial mask.

Pike (Esox lucius)
A dominant predator in the park’s waterways, the pike is a fast and aggressive fish known for its sharp teeth and ambush hunting tactics. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the aquatic ecosystem.

Birds

Narew National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting a remarkable variety of waterfowl, raptors, and migratory species. The extensive wetlands, reed beds, and riverbanks provide an ideal habitat for many rare and iconic birds.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
One of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle has a powerful wingspan and is often seen soaring over the river in search of fish. It is a conservation success story, having rebounded from near extinction.

Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
Less common than the white stork, the black stork is a secretive bird that prefers remote wetland areas. It has striking black and white plumage and feeds primarily on fish and amphibians.

Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)
This medium-sized raptor is easily identifiable by its long wings and low, gliding flight over reed beds. It hunts small mammals and birds and is a key species in the park’s ecosystem.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A symbol of Poland’s wetlands, the common crane is known for its elegant courtship dances and loud, trumpeting calls. Large flocks can be seen during migration periods.

Great Bittern (Botaurus stellaris)
A master of camouflage, the great bittern blends seamlessly into the reed beds with its streaky brown plumage. It is more often heard than seen, producing a deep, booming call that carries over the wetlands.

Eurasian Curlew (Numenius arquata)
This large wader is distinguished by its long, downward-curving bill, which it uses to probe mud for invertebrates. Its distinctive, melancholic call is a familiar sound in the park’s wetlands.

Bluethroat (Luscinia svecica)
A small yet striking bird, the bluethroat features a vibrant blue throat patch in males. It prefers marshy habitats and is known for its melodious song.

Spotted Crake (Porzana porzana)
A secretive waterbird, the spotted crake is rarely seen but often heard making its distinctive “whip” call at dusk. It forages in shallow water for insects and plant material.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
Larger than the mute swan, the whooper swan has a distinctive yellow and black beak and a loud, trumpeting call. It migrates to Narew National Park for the winter, gathering in impressive flocks.

Penduline Tit (Remiz pendulinus)
A small songbird known for its elaborate, hanging nests, the penduline tit is a master builder. It is often found in willow trees near water, feeding on insects and seeds.

Narew National Park remains a vital refuge for these species, providing a crucial habitat for wildlife that depends on its wetlands, forests, and riverbanks.