PLAIUL FAGULUI NATURE RESERVE

Protected by the State since 1975, this nature reserve was officially created on 12 March 1992 to ensure the conservation of biodiversity and natural ecosystems. Its total area is 5,642 hectares, of which 4,639 hectares are occupied by forest (beech, oak, lime and hornbeam), but the landscape nevertheless offers great diversity with narrow ridges and deep valleys, steep slopes (consequences of landslides), water sources and small lakes.
Wildlife once included deer, bears, reindeer, martens, wolves and wild boar, but the expansion of arable land has greatly reduced the amount of woodland and thus the number of plants and animals. The uncontrolled hunting of bears has also contributed to the disappearance of deer, lynx and wolves. Today, 49 species of mammals (deer, wild boar, foxes, badgers, weasels, wild cats, martens, rodents, squirrels and bats) are registered. There are 140 species of birds (including 7 of green woodpeckers) that live in a favourable environment, 8 species of reptiles (marsh turtle, viper, hazel snake) and 12 species of amphibians. There are 909 species of local flora, including 151 species of mushrooms and 48 species of lichens. This reserve is a museum of nature, it reveals an enchanting landscape of great beauty. It contributes to the conservation and renewal of plant and animal species.