Start page arrow Visiting the Orłówka Protective Unit
Visiting the Orłówka Protective Unit Print

The Orłówka Protective Unit (the part which is under strict protection) is one of the most precious objects
in BPN in terms of natural resources. The forest in this area was subject to no human intervention. It is therefore possible to observe the whole life cycle of a tree: starting from a seedling, ending with rotten, dying-off trees at the end of their lives. Special attention is attracted by the broken, windfallen and withered trees. Their large number surprised almost everyone who comes to this place for the very first time. However, it is this apparent chaos that is the source of the uniqueness, large value, unimaginable abundance and variety of the life forms present in this area.

When going to visit this particular part of the Park, tourists can count on coming across species of animals typical for natural forests e.g. birds: White-backed woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos), Three-toed woodpecker (Picoides tridactylus), Collared flycatcher (Ficedula albicollis) or Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum). For a number of species, old tree stand with a large amount of decomposing wood represent the exclusive living environment.

Visiting the Orłówka Protective Unit (the part which is under strict protection)
is possible exclusively with a tour guide authorized by the Białowieża National Park. All tours can be taken on foot, in the groups from 1 to 20 people, along previously defined, not marked trails. To a limited extent, it is also possible to obtain permission to make a trip on a horse back or bike. A trail with the total length of 4 kilometres, partially running along a footbridge, is available to all visitors. The longer trails (up to 22 kilometres of length) are available to specialized groups and require to obtain the permission of the Park Management.

The Orłówka Protective Unit  is located approximately 1 kilometre north from the Palace Park. Tourists visiting this area are obligated to purchase access tickets at one of the BPN ticket offices. Tourist service offices are responsible for providing tour guiding services in the area of Białowieża National Park.


Marek Świć
Nature Education Centre

 
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