Borecka Forest

The Białowieża Forest, located in northeastern Poland, is the largest forest complex on the Ełk Lakeland, covering an area of 230 km². Its history dates back to the 7th century BC, when the Galindian Forest dominated here, and over time, West Baltic tribal groups developed. In the 13th century, the area was conquered by the Teutonic Knights, who colonized these lands, leading to deforestation, which influenced the formation of the Forest's boundaries that have survived to modern times. The Forest is divided into forest districts: Przerwanki, Borki, and Czerwony Dwór, with administrative boundaries dating back to the 19th century. The area of the Forest is characterized by a moraine terrain, with numerous hills and peat bogs, and the highest elevation is Lipowa Góra (223 m above sea level). The Forest features picturesque lakes and streams, which influence the local ecosystem. The Forest is rich in natural habitats – approximately 92% of its area is covered by forests, including diverse tree species and many protected plants. In nature reserves, such as Mazury, Borki, and Lipowy Jar, unique ecosystems and species of fauna and flora are protected. The Białowieża Forest is also a habitat for many animal species, such as bison, deer, lynxes, and 141 species of birds, including eagles and white-tailed eagles. An attraction is the free-ranging herd of bison, which was introduced in 1956. Thus, the Forest is a place of immense natural, ecological, and cultural importance.