Bohdanečský rybník

Bohdanečský rybník is one of the oldest and ecologically most valuable fishponds in eastern Bohemia, sitting on the northwestern edge of the spa town of Lázně Bohdaneč in the Pardubice Region, roughly 10 km from Pardubice. Since 1951 the pond and its surrounding wetlands have been protected as a National Nature Reserve covering about 250 hectares.

Where did the pond come from?

The earliest records of Bohdanečský rybník go back to the 15th century. Its likely founders were a fishmaster named Vlček, active toward the end of that century, and Jan Křenek z Čestic, credited with expanding the pond in the early 16th century. For centuries the pond served a practical purpose within the region's traditional fish-farming system, and over time its natural value came to outweigh its economic role, leading to protected status as early as the mid-20th century, initially as a state nature reserve.

What does the reserve protect?

The reserve covers far more than the water body itself: it is a mosaic of open water, wetlands, forests, calcareous meadows, boggy alder stands, willow carr, and oak woodland. It lies in the flat lowland of the East Elbe Plateau, at an elevation of 215–220 meters. This habitat diversity makes the area especially important for species tied to aquatic and wetland environments.

Why is it a haven for birds?

Bohdanečský rybník ranks among the region's most important ornithological sites. Critically endangered water and wetland birds nest here, including the little bittern, the great bittern, and the little crake. Visitors may also spot great crested grebes, bearded reedlings, thrush nightingales, spotted crakes, Savi's warblers, and great reed warblers. A dedicated bird observation tower has been built on the Polákov peninsula, letting visitors watch the birds without disturbing their natural behavior.

How can you explore the reserve?

A 7.25 km educational trail runs through the reserve, with six stops featuring information boards that introduce visitors to the pond's history and the richness of its flora and fauna. It's an appealing route both for nature enthusiasts and for families looking for a quiet walk among water and woodland, close to the spa town of Lázně Bohdaneč.

Frequently asked questions

Where is Bohdanečský rybník located? On the northwestern edge of Lázně Bohdaneč, in the Pardubice Region, about 10 km from Pardubice.

Since when has the pond been protected? Since 1951, initially as a state reserve and now as a National Nature Reserve.

How large is the reserve? It covers approximately 250 hectares of water, wetlands, forest, and meadows.

What should you see on a visit? The bird observation tower on the Polákov peninsula and the 7.25 km educational trail with six stops.

Which birds can you spot here? Among others, the little bittern, the great bittern, the little crake, the great crested grebe, and the bearded reedling.