Chudenická bažantnice

Chudenická bažantnice (Chudenice Pheasantry) is a small but strikingly scenic nature reserve located just south of the village of Chudenice, in the Klatovy district of the Czech Republic. The protected area straddles the cadastral territories of Lučice u Chudenic and Pušperk, sits at roughly 450 metres above sea level, and covers just under 18 hectares — compact enough for an unhurried walk among centuries-old trees.

Where does the name come from?

The name reflects the site's original purpose. The pheasantry was established in 1719 by the noble Černín family, who at the time managed the Chudenice estate. Back then the grounds included both forest and agricultural land, enclosed by a wooden fence that stretched all the way to the park surrounding the nearby Lázeň Chateau near Chudenice. Pheasants were bred here for the hunting pursuits of the lords of the manor, making the area a decorative-cum-hunting estate typical of aristocratic residences of that era.

Why is the site protected?

The pheasantry was granted protected status back in 1933, making it one of the older protected sites of its kind in the region. Today it is managed by the Nature Conservation Agency of the Czech Republic (AOPK ČR). The main reason for protection is its preserved mixed woodland, aged 150–200 years and in places considerably older — the site is home to oaks as old as 400 years, along with valuable specimens of maples and larches. This kind of forest structure, with rich understory vegetation and numerous old, hollow-bearing trees, creates a habitat of high ecological value.

What can visitors see on site?

Visitors can expect a walk among impressive, ancient trees that lend the place an almost park-like yet distinctly wild character. Lush forest-floor vegetation accompanies the old growth year-round, shifting in appearance with the seasons — from spring blooms to autumn colours. The area is also known for its rich birdlife: the old, hollow-bearing trees provide natural habitat for numerous bird species, making the pheasantry an interesting stop for nature watchers as well.

Who is this place for?

Chudenická bažantnice suits anyone looking for a quiet encounter with nature, away from the crowds of more conventional tourist attractions. Its proximity to Chudenice and the nearby chateau park makes it easy to combine a visit to the reserve with exploring the village itself and its historical monuments. It's a good choice for families with children, nature photographers, and anyone who appreciates old, imposing tree stands.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Chudenická bažantnice located? South of the village of Chudenice, in the Klatovy district, within the cadastral areas of Lučice u Chudenic and Pušperk, at about 450 metres above sea level.

When was the pheasantry established? It was founded in 1719 by the Černín family as part of the Chudenice estate.

Since when has the area been protected? The site has held protected status since 1933.

What is the biggest natural draw of this place? The old mixed woodland, aged 150–200 years, including oaks as old as 400 years, plus maples and larches, along with rich birdlife.

Can visitors walk through freely? As a nature reserve, the site is under protection, so visitors should stick to marked paths and respect the rules that apply to protected areas.