add-banner

Tuchola Forest Overview

Tuchola Forest National Park, known locally as Park Narodowy Bory Tucholskie, is a protected natural area in northern Poland, covering approximately 46 square miles (118.3 square kilometers).

Situated within the larger Tuchola Forest, one of the largest forested areas in Poland, the park is located in the Pomeranian Voivodeship and lies near the town of Chojnice. The park was established in 1996 and forms part of the UNESCO-designated Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve, which highlights its ecological significance and the efforts to preserve its unique environment.

The park’s landscape is characterized by vast pine forests, which dominate nearly 90 percent of its total area. These expansive woodlands are interspersed with over 20 picturesque lakes, including Lake Charzykowskie and Lake Ostrowite, as well as a network of rivers such as the Brda and Wda, which carve through the terrain, creating scenic river valleys.

The topography is largely shaped by glacial activity from the last Ice Age, leaving behind rolling hills, sandy outwash plains, and numerous postglacial depressions that now host small bogs and marshes. Peat bogs, especially the Struga Siedmiu Jezior (Stream of Seven Lakes) reserve, contribute to the park’s diverse wetland ecosystems, providing a sanctuary for rare plant species. Among the notable flora are relict plant species such as sundews, orchids, and club mosses, which thrive in the park’s humid environments.

Tuchola Forest National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, with many species adapted to its dense woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. One of the most iconic mammals in the park is the European beaver, which has been successfully reintroduced and now plays a key role in maintaining wetland habitats. Other notable mammals include red deer, roe deer, wild boars, and pine martens.

The park’s birdlife is particularly rich, attracting ornithologists and birdwatchers due to the presence of rare species. White-tailed eagles, black storks, and common cranes are among the most sought-after sightings, while various woodpecker species thrive in the old-growth sections of the forest. The park’s wetlands and lakes also support a variety of amphibians, including the fire-bellied toad and the European tree frog, further enhancing its biodiversity.

Visitors to Tuchola Forest National Park can experience its natural beauty through various outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the forest, offering opportunities to explore its serene landscapes. Kayaking and canoeing on the Brda River provide a peaceful way to navigate the park’s waterways while taking in its tranquil scenery.

The lakes are popular for birdwatching and photography, particularly during migratory seasons when waterfowl and waders are most active. The Struga Siedmiu Jezior trail is a favorite among nature enthusiasts, leading through a pristine glacial valley with interconnected lakes and peat bogs. For those interested in cultural experiences, nearby villages showcase traditional Kashubian heritage, with wooden churches, folk museums, and local crafts providing a glimpse into the region’s history.

Tuchola Forest National Park faces conservation challenges, particularly from climate change, deforestation in surrounding areas, and human activities such as tourism and agriculture.

Efforts to preserve its delicate ecosystems have been largely successful, thanks to strict environmental protections, habitat restoration programs, and sustainable tourism initiatives.

The park’s inclusion in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve framework helps ensure that its rich biodiversity and unique landscapes remain protected for future generations. Through ongoing conservation efforts, Tuchola Forest National Park continues to serve as an important sanctuary for Poland’s natural heritage.

advertisement banner
Park Map
advertisement banner

Tuchola Forest National Park Highlights

Popular

Tuchola Forest National Park, located in northern Poland, is a stunning expanse of dense pine forests, pristine lakes, and meandering rivers. This park is part of the larger Tuchola Forest Biosphere Reserve and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Below are some of the more popular species found in the park.

European Bison
Once extinct in the wild, the European bison has been successfully reintroduced to various regions, including Tuchola Forest. These massive herbivores roam the park’s meadows and forest edges, grazing on grasses and low vegetation.

Red Deer
One of the largest deer species in Europe, the red deer thrives in Tuchola’s woodlands. Males are particularly impressive during the autumn rut when they display their large antlers and emit loud calls to attract mates.

Roe Deer
Smaller than red deer, roe deer are more commonly seen in the park’s clearings and along forest trails. They are known for their agility and shy nature, often darting into the woods at the slightest disturbance.

Wild Boar
Wild boars are abundant in Tuchola Forest and can often be seen foraging for roots, tubers, and small animals. They are highly adaptable and play a crucial role in the ecosystem by aerating the soil as they dig.

Eurasian Lynx
This elusive predator is one of the most exciting species in the park. With its tufted ears, powerful build, and incredible stealth, the Eurasian lynx preys on deer and smaller mammals, helping to maintain ecological balance.

European Badger
A nocturnal mammal, the European badger is known for its distinctive black-and-white striped face. It digs extensive burrow systems called setts and is an omnivore, consuming everything from earthworms to berries.

Otter
The presence of rivers and lakes makes Tuchola Forest an ideal habitat for the Eurasian otter. These playful, semi-aquatic mammals are excellent swimmers, feeding on fish, amphibians, and crustaceans.

Grey Wolf
A top predator in the park, grey wolves roam the forests in small packs. Their presence indicates a healthy ecosystem, as they regulate prey populations and prevent overgrazing.

Pine Marten
This agile tree-climber is a skilled predator, preying on rodents, birds, and insects. The pine marten has a beautiful, golden-yellow throat patch and is an important species for controlling small mammal populations.

Raccoon Dog
An unusual species in Europe, the raccoon dog is a small, omnivorous canid that has adapted well to forest life. It resembles a raccoon but is more closely related to foxes and is mostly active at night.

Birds

Tuchola Forest National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting a wide variety of bird species, including many rare and protected ones. Here are some of the most popular birds found in the park.

White-tailed Eagle
Europe’s largest bird of prey, the white-tailed eagle is often seen soaring over lakes and rivers, scanning for fish. It has a striking appearance with a massive wingspan and a white tail.

Black Stork
Unlike its more common white counterpart, the black stork is shy and prefers secluded forest wetlands. It feeds on fish, amphibians, and insects and nests in tall trees.

Common Crane
A symbol of Poland’s wild landscapes, the common crane is a majestic bird that performs elaborate courtship dances. It is often seen in marshy areas, feeding on plants and small invertebrates.

Ural Owl
One of the park’s most mysterious nocturnal predators, the Ural owl has a round face, dark eyes, and a deep, resonant call that echoes through the forest at night.

Eurasian Pygmy Owl
This tiny owl is one of Europe’s smallest raptors. Despite its small size, it is a fierce hunter, preying on rodents and small birds in dense woodland areas.

Woodlark
Known for its beautiful, melodious song, the woodlark thrives in open woodland and forest edges. Its singing flight is a distinctive feature in the spring and summer months.

Great Grey Shrike
A striking bird with black-and-white plumage, the great grey shrike is a skilled hunter that impales its prey on thorns or barbed wire to eat later.

Black Woodpecker
The largest woodpecker species in Europe, the black woodpecker is known for its loud drumming sounds as it pecks tree trunks in search of insects and larvae.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a formidable nocturnal predator with bright orange eyes and powerful talons.

Common Kingfisher
This small, vibrant bird is a delight to spot along rivers and lakes. With its bright blue and orange plumage, the kingfisher dives into the water to catch fish with remarkable precision.

Tuchola Forest National Park is a treasure trove of biodiversity, offering visitors a chance to observe some of Poland’s most fascinating wildlife in a serene and protected environment.

add-banner