bosnia-and-herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina Animals

Today in Bosnia and Herzegovina: Labour Day Holiday (2 May)
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Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Nestled in the heart of the Balkan Peninsula, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a country of rugged natural beauty, where dense forests, clear rivers, and towering mountains create a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife. This land, rich in cultural history, is also a haven for an array of animal species that thrive in its diverse habitats, from the high Dinaric Alps to the gentle plains of the Sava River basin.

As we embark on an exploration of the fauna that calls Bosnia and Herzegovina home, we find ourselves in a world where the elusive European brown bear roams the remote woodlands, and the stealthy lynx stalks its prey in silence. The skies above are patrolled by the regal golden eagle, while the clear, unpolluted waters of the Neretva River are teeming with life, including the indigenous soft-mouthed trout. Join us as we delve into the lives of these remarkable creatures and discover the rich tapestry of wildlife that makes Bosnia and Herzegovina a truly enchanting destination for animal enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.

Mammals of Bosnia and Herzegovina

In the diverse landscapes of Bosnia and Herzegovina, one can encounter an array of fascinating mammals that thrive in its rich ecosystems. The Eurasian lynx, a stealthy and elusive predator, roams the dense forests, while the brown bear, a symbol of wilderness, also calls these woods home. The country's rivers and streams are the habitat of the European otter, an adept swimmer and fisher. In the mountainous terrains, the chamois, a nimble and sure-footed goat-antelope, navigates the rocky outcrops. The wolf, a pack hunter and an integral part of the region's folklore, can be found in remote areas. These mammals are just a glimpse of the wildlife that makes Bosnia and Herzegovina a remarkable haven for nature enthusiasts.

Birds of Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina, with its diverse habitats ranging from Mediterranean to alpine, is a haven for bird enthusiasts. The country's rich avifauna includes the regal golden eagle, soaring high in the Dinaric Alps, and the elusive Ural owl, whispering through the ancient forests. Wetlands like Hutovo Blato Nature Park provide sanctuary for the pygmy cormorant and the rare ferruginous duck. Along the riverbanks, the white-throated dipper bobs and weaves, while the skies above the Una River echo with the calls of the peregrine falcon. In the Herzegovinian karst, the rock partridge's distinctive song punctuates the air, a melody for those exploring this rugged landscape.

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in Bosnia and Herzegovina

  • Sutjeska National Park, nestled in the eastern part of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is one of the oldest and largest parks in the country. It boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including the brown bear, chamois, and wolves roaming the dense forests of Perućica, one of the last remaining primeval forests in Europe. Birdwatchers may also spot the golden eagle soaring above the rugged peaks.
  • Una National Park, located in the northwest along the Una River, is renowned for its unspoiled beauty and clear waters. The park is a haven for otters, which can be seen playing along the riverbanks. The diverse birdlife includes species such as the black stork and the rare white-tailed eagle, making it a prime spot for bird enthusiasts.
  • Hutovo Blato Nature Reserve, situated in the south, is a wetland paradise and one of the largest bird reserves in Europe. It provides a sanctuary for over 240 migratory bird species, including the purple heron, osprey, and the little bittern. The reserve's marshes and lakes are also home to the European pond turtle and numerous species of fish.
  • Kozara National Park, in the northwest, is known for its dense forests and abundant wildlife. Visitors can encounter roe deer, red deer, and wild boar, as well as a variety of smaller mammals like the European badger and the red fox. The park's avian population includes the Eurasian sparrowhawk and the Eurasian eagle-owl.
  • Blidinje Nature Park, located in the Dinaric Alps, is a vast high-mountain plateau that provides a habitat for the endemic Bosnian pine. The park's fauna includes the lynx, which roams the rocky terrain, and the griffon vulture, which can be seen gliding over the valleys. The park also supports populations of wild horses, which can be observed grazing in the open fields.

Where to next? Discover country icon Montenegro, a country in the region worth visiting, or use the destination finder