Is Krakow's forest like the Amazon jungle? It's unique on a global scale.

What happened in Kraków can, without a shadow of a doubt, be described as a breakthrough for urban environmental protection in Poland. The new ecological site covers an area of over 53 hectares and is located within the boundaries of District VII of Zwierzyniec, within the Bielańsko-Tyniecki Landscape Park. It is the largest preserved willow-poplar riparian forest in the region, and according to experts, is unique not only in Poland but also across Europe.

"The riparian forest in Przegorzały is a unique corner of nature, captivating with its wild, tropical character. Naturalists agree: it's unique in Europe!" emphasizes the University of Agriculture in Krakow.

A tropical landscape and a European phenomenon

Willow-poplar forests are a forest formation found in wetlands along rivers and streams. Today, they are almost completely extinct on the European continent, and their existence within the boundaries of a large city like Kraków is almost unbelievable. The Przegorzalski forest is distinguished not only by its size but also by its age and exceptional natural richness.

According to city hall data, "the rationale for protecting this area as an ecological site is the preservation of the riverside riparian forest, whose protection is important for maintaining biodiversity, natural habitats, and landscape." The site was named after Dr. Kazimierz Walasz, a biologist and ornithologist associated with the Jagiellonian University, who for years advocated for its protection. The professor, who passed away in 2025, left behind not only a vast scientific legacy but also the tangible results of his work in the form of a preserved ecosystem.

Ecological wealth: plants, birds, mushrooms

The flora and fauna of the Przegorzały riparian forest are astonishingly diverse. In this relatively small area, scientists have identified 103 species of fungi, 32 of which have been included on the "red list" of macrofungi in Poland. Furthermore, 52 species of vascular plants have been identified, including one strictly protected species – floating snail. The rich microworld is complemented by 42 species of mollusks, 41 of which are snails, two of which are partially protected.

Birds, however, are the greatest treasure of this place. The Przegorzalski riparian forest has been home to 106 bird species. Of these, 94 are strictly protected, 7 are partially protected, and 5 are considered game. Among them, you can find the night heron – a mysterious member of the heron family that prefers the quiet and inaccessible corners of water habitats.

"Over a hundred bird species live in this area. Most are protected. For example, the secretive and mysterious night heron from the heron family," explains Dr. Anna Gazda, a professor at the University of Agriculture in Krakow, as quoted by Zielona Interia.

Invertebrates, amphibians and mammals

Equally impressive is the data on insects and other invertebrates: two species of flies are listed in the Red Data Book, 67 species of beetles, seven species of bees, and 33 species of dragonflies. Among these, three beetles and six bumblebees are partially protected, while two dragonfly species are strictly protected.

This area is also a haven for amphibians, with nine species identified, including three strictly protected and six partially protected. Mammals are also abundant, with 14 species identified, including one strictly protected, four partially protected, and nine game species.

Green light for nature, red light for asphalt

The area, which today enjoys protected ecological status, until recently had a completely different purpose. City plans included the construction of the Pychowicka route – one of the largest road investments. Krakow environmentalists had been protesting against the project for years, warning that the road would irreversibly destroy the valuable ecosystem. Now, after years of pressure, the project was abandoned and the area was placed under protection.

This is an important signal for other cities in Poland, where similar natural enclaves are still awaiting their chance. In Krakow alone, there are currently 20 ecological sites, with a total area exceeding 200 hectares. While this is a step in the right direction, experts remind us that it is still not enough. According to estimates, there are at least twice as many areas within the city limits that should be protected.

Natural and social heritage

The creation of the "Kazimierz Walasz Riparian Forest in Przegorzały" ecological site is not only an expression of concern for nature, but also a tribute to an outstanding scientist who devoted his entire life to research and nature conservation. His name is a permanent fixture on the map of Krakow and in the consciousness of its residents.

It is also a valuable example for local governments of how to effectively combine social, scientific, and ecological interests. The future of urban forests, meadows, marshes, and peat bogs depends not only on the decisions of officials but also on the involvement of citizens.

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