The first find of a snow bunting in the Krka National Park
We are extremely pleased to announce that the first recorded sighting of a snow bunting (Plectrophenax nivalis) has been recorded in the Krka National Park, increasing the bird population in the Park to as many as 230 species
This is a bird that lives in colder, northern regions such as Iceland, Norway, and Russia and can only be seen occasionally in Croatia. Even its wintering grounds are located further north than our regions, so its discovery at the Ivoševci site, near the Burnum amphitheatre, is particularly interesting. The male in winter plumage was spotted thanks to the careful observation of our nature ranger.
"Protected areas like the Krka National Park are crucial in preserving biodiversity and natural habitats. Every new species that appears in this area, like the snow bunting, confirms the importance of our work in protecting and preserving the environment. This discovery also shows how proper management and regular monitoring allow us to preserve not only specific species, but also entire ecosystems that are crucial for maintaining the balance in nature," said Nella Slavica, director of the Krka National Park.
The snow bunting is 15 to 18 cm long. It builds its nests in high mountains and along rocky northern coasts, and in winter often resides in open coastal pastures and heaths. It is quite secretive, but also restless and active, constantly on the move.
The Krka National Park boasts an exceptionally rich birdlife, with 229 species recorded so far, of which 88 are overwintering. The park is also an important resting place for migratory birds. The discovery of the snow bunting confirms the importance of preserving natural habitats in the Park.
This discovery highlights the key role of nature guards in monitoring the state of the environment and changes occurring in it. Their dedication and expertise make it possible to preserve habitats and monitor species in the Krka National Park, thus ensuring the future of its rich natural heritage.
Monitoring
JOŠ NOVOSTI IZ KATEGORIJE
Monitoring of nesting pairs of the Eurasian Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo) in the Krka NP area in 2026
From February 8 to March 14, 2026, during thirty-one field trips, the nature guards of the Krka National Park listened to the singing of male eagle owls in the evening hours, during sunset, at twenty-one locations along the canyons of the Krka and Čikola Rivers
Monitoring the status of hibernating bat colonies in the broader area of Krka National Park in 2026
In January 2026, the company Geonatura d.o.o. conducted monitoring of hibernating bat colonies in the broader area of the Krka National Park, which included an inspection of the underground shelters of Topla Pećina Cave, Miljacka II Cave, Velika Pećina Kaočinka Cave and Stara Jametina Cave
Monitoring the occurrence of plant diseases and pests in forest communities of the Krka NP
The project "Monitoring the occurrence of plant diseases and pests in forest communities of the Krka National Park – 2024 and 2025" was implemented with the aim of systematically monitoring the health of the Park's forest ecosystems in conditions of pronounced climate change, frequent dry periods, forest fires, and an increased risk of the appearance and spread of harmful and invasive organisms
Winter Counting of Waterfowl in the area of the Krka National Park in 2026
This year we also counted waterfowl in the Krka National Park area