Wildlife in Czechia
Including Krkonoše National Park, Podyjí National Park, and Třeboňsko Biosphere Reserve. On the map.
The vibe
Observing nature here is a quiet, contemplative experience centered on deep, protected woodlands rather than the grand, sweeping spectacles of larger wilderness regions. Early morning or twilight in the warmer months provides the best chance to spot deer or boar moving through the dense undergrowth. It is a low-key, independent pursuit where you are more likely to encounter a solitary hiker than a tour group.
Krkonoše National Park
Hradec Králové Region
Honza Groh ( Jagro ) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
As the highest mountain range in Czechia, this park hosts unique alpine tundra ecosystems and is the primary habitat for the rare black grouse and the mouflon. The dramatic landscape of glacial cirques and subalpine meadows offers a distinct wildlife experience compared to the lowland forests.
Access. Accessible via mountain trails; visitors can use cable cars to reach higher elevations, though wildlife observation is best done on foot away from main tourist hubs.
Notes. Strict protection zones exist; stay on marked paths to protect the fragile alpine flora and fauna.
Podyjí National Park
South Moravian Region
Honza and Ivana Ebr / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
This unique river valley ecosystem along the border with Austria is famous for its exceptional biodiversity, including rare bird species like the eagle owl and colorful European bee-eaters. The mosaic of rocky slopes, meadows, and riverine forests provides a sanctuary for diverse fauna rarely seen elsewhere in the region.
Access. Explored via an extensive network of cycling and hiking paths; birdwatching is best conducted from the viewpoints overlooking the Dyje River canyon.
Notes. Spring and early summer are ideal for birdwatching and observing the park's rich insect and reptile life.
Třeboňsko Biosphere Reserve
South Bohemian Region
JAn Dudík / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
This UNESCO-protected landscape of fishponds, wetlands, and peat bogs is a critical stopover for migratory birds and a breeding ground for white-tailed eagles. The vast network of historic ponds creates a unique aquatic habitat that supports a massive population of waterfowl and amphibians.
Access. Accessible by bike or foot along the dikes of the fishponds; bird hides are strategically placed around the larger ponds like Rožmberk.
Notes. Autumn is the peak season for bird migration when thousands of cranes and geese can be observed.
Šumava National Park
South Bohemian Region
Bayerische Vermessungsverwaltung (Landesamt für Digitalisierung, Breitband und Vermessung) / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
Known as the 'Green Heart of Europe', this vast forest landscape is a refuge for rare wildlife including the Eurasian lynx, red deer, and the endangered capercaillie. Its dense, protected woodlands offer one of the best opportunities in Central Europe to observe elusive forest mammals in their natural habitat.
Access. Accessible via hiking trails and designated wildlife observation points; guided tours are available for tracking lynx and other large mammals.
Notes. Best visited in early morning or dusk for wildlife spotting; remain on marked trails to minimize disturbance to sensitive species.