The "Wielikąt" Nature and Landscape Complex

The "Wielikąt" Landscape and Nature Complex is located in the Silesian Voivodeship, in Wodzisław County, near the settlement of Wielikąt. Established in 1993 by a decision of the Voivode of Katowice, it is the result of efforts by naturalists, including the Upper Silesian Ornithological Circle and the Polish Society of Friends of Nature "pro Natura". The area, with a total surface of 642.81 hectares, encompasses a complex of fishponds belonging to the "Wielikąt" Fish Farm. This complex consists of nine larger ponds (17–40 ha) and numerous smaller ones, dominated by reed beds with common reed and cattails. The surroundings of the ponds are covered with diverse vegetation, including oaks, birches, alders, and numerous shrubs. The ponds are fed by the waters of the Syrynka and Lubomka streams, and a railway line runs through the complex. "Wielikąt" has become a unique habitat for many species of waterbirds and is an important part of an ecological corridor. In 2004, the ponds were recognized as a bird sanctuary of international importance (IBA) by the Polish Society for the Protection of Birds, and four years later they were included in the areas of contemporary bird protection under the Natura 2000 network. To date, 236 bird species have been recorded here, including 129 breeding species, among which are many globally and nationally threatened species such as the Eurasian bittern, the gadwall, and the white-tailed eagle. Interestingly, in 2008, a rare breeding of the Egyptian goose was documented here. "Wielikąt" also serves as a resting place for birds during migration, attracting flocks for molting. In the 1990s, the complex was the largest molting site for mute swans in southwestern Poland. In addition to bird protection, a four-kilometer educational trail was established here in 2003, which helps popularize knowledge about nature. The "Wielikąt" Landscape and Nature Complex is not only a valuable area for biodiversity but also an attractive destination for nature and birdwatching enthusiasts.