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Spring is the time when nature comes to life, recalling forgotten bird melodies in the morning. This is the period when the first, delicate buds bloom on the trees, and after a while they burst into green, and the meadows are covered with colorful flowers, creating unique carpets of nature. The sun's rays heat the earth, setting the entire ecosystem in motion - from the smallest insects to majestic mammals. For us, lovers, but also of the elements of nature, spring is a moment of awakening after winter lethargy and a time of new hopes for a beautiful tomorrow. For many, it is the most wonderful time of the year :)
If you are not sure whether you belong to this group, check it out on Sobieszewska Island. Walking on the beaches, where the sea waves create collages on the sand, you can feel how time slows down and the hustle and bustle of everyday life is far behind you. In this peaceful place, surrounded by forest and sea, you will find relief for your soul and body. In such circumstances, it is definitely easier to love spring again or give it a chance for the first time ;)
I invite you to discover spring inspirations and catch your breath surrounded by beautiful, awakening nature accompanied by unique bird accompaniment :)
Photo: "Bird Paradise" reserve on Sobieszewska Island
Definitely: to be! Sometimes I think this is a truism, but after a while I realize that in the rush of the big city and in a life that demands more and more from us, it is easy to get lost and forget about what is important to us. The answer is often closeness to nature, permission to be here and now.
Relaxing among the colors and sounds of nature is not only a pleasure, but also a form of therapy for our body. Many shades of green, fresh air and waves hitting the sea shore have a soothing effect on our senses, often reducing stress and putting us in a good mood. When we decide to notice the beauty of the surrounding nature, it will be easier for us to find harmony and balance, which is so often missing in everyday life.
However, if, when leaving home, you have to look for the subtle charm of nature, consider resting in a place where it will surround you on all sides. Sobieszewska Island is one of such places. Especially during spring bird migrations!
Photo: Birds of Sobieszewska Island
From spring to early autumn, the island is bathed in greenery. Lovers of peace and quiet will enjoy walking along forest paths, contemplating the sound of trees and the sea. In this Protected Landscape Area, the terrain is definitely diverse and it is impossible to get bored. We can encounter a whole range of various habitats with very specific fauna and flora, including: mixed forests and pine forests, willow thickets, seaside beaches, dunes, ponds and lakes, meadows and arable fields. It's hard to find a more interesting piece of land hidden in the arms of the Vistula and the sea :)
For this reason, every year, especially in spring, lovers of blissful relaxation, but also nature lovers and, above all, ornithologists, come to Sobieszewska Island. Among them we will find both enthusiasts and scientists who make observations and measurements for their own pleasure and for educational purposes. They have a great area and population for research, because on the island's surface of 35 km2 there are two unique nature reserves: the Bird Paradise Reserve and the Mewia Łacha Reserve.
The reserve located in the north-western part of Sobieszewska Island covers almost 190 ha. The decision to create it resulted, among others, from the need to protect and preserve the complex of coastal lakes (Lake Karaś and Lake Ptasi Raj), as well as dunes and swamps, which are a resting place for migratory birds during their annual migrations. Free entry is available all year round.
Photo: "Bird Paradise" reserve on Sobieszewska Island
In the reserve you can meet over 200 species of birds, 25% of which chose this area to build nests and raise their young. A trained eye, preferably equipped with binoculars, can spot, for example:
Among the birds more often seen in open water, we can see flocks of ducks, geese, swans, seagulls and coots. Their number is estimated at up to 20,000 individuals! In addition to birds, there are over 300 species of plants in the reserve, and sometimes you can also spot seals.
The best times to see birds during their migration are spring (March-May) and autumn (October-November). Be sure to equip yourself with binoculars, which will significantly improve your observations and see what's going on in the birds' minds ;)
Photo: Seal on Sobieszewska Island
On the opposite end of Sobieszewska Island, near Świbno, there is a second, younger nature reserve - Mewia Łacha - with an area of 19 ha. Its much larger part is located on the other side of the Vistula, near the village of Mikoszewo.
This area is subject to strong waves from the sea, which results in a dynamically changing coastline. All this has a positive impact on the flora of the reserve, rich in approximately 450 species of plants, including the protected Sea Holly plant.
The area of the Vistula Mouth is one of the most interesting ornithological areas in Poland (and perhaps in Europe). The purpose of establishing the reserve was to preserve breeding and resting places before and after migration for nearly 275 species of birds, including rare species of terns.
But apart from this huge diversity, you also have to be prepared for huge flocks of birds of one species! This place is teeming with life (in spring and summer there are ducks and seagulls in winter;)).
Mammal lovers will also find a real treat - from the viewing platform in Świbno you can often see seals sunbathing. Moreover, if you are lucky, you can see them along the entire length of the island's beach, sometimes even with seal pups.
Due to the important function of the Reserve, please remember that during the bird breeding season (April-August) you can move around Mewia Łasza only in accordance with the trail markings. Also stay silent so as not to scare the nesting animals. If you have a four-legged friend with you, be sure to wear a leash and make sure it does not disturb the birds.
Photo: "Mewia Łacha" reserve on Sobieszewska Island
Sobieszewska Island is an ideal place, and spring is the perfect time to break away from everyday life and get closer to nature, which can perfectly recharge our, even discharged, batteries ;) Walking along forest paths and watching fauna and flora come to life, you will feel how new energy permeates your bodies, inspiring further experiences and reflections.
I encourage you to stop for a moment and listen to the birds' symphony and feel the warm spring breeze on your cheek. Open your senses to a riot of colors, the smell of blooming flowers and the sound of sea waves. See you on the "bird trail" :)
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