Velký a Malý Polom

Velký a Malý Polom is a forest nature reserve located within the cadastral area of Velká Střítež, in the Železné hory (Iron Mountains) range in the Czech Republic, at an elevation of roughly 545 to 625 metres above sea level. Covering close to 20 hectares, it is regarded as one of the last surviving fragments of natural fir-beech forest along the ridge of this mountain range.

What makes this reserve unique?

The protected area is split into two separate sections — Velký Polom and Malý Polom — divided from one another by a strip of managed spruce forest under commercial use. This division is the source of the site's name, and it is sometimes also referred to as "prales Polom," meaning the Polom primeval forest. Despite their modest size, both sections have retained the character of old-growth woodland with significant ecological value.

What is the history behind its protection?

Protection of this forest fragment dates back to 1933, making Polom one of the older protected areas in the region. The goal was to preserve the remnants of natural fir-beech forest that once covered a large part of the Železné hory ridge before giving way to forestry practices based on spruce monocultures. In 1955, the boundaries of the reserve were expanded to bring additional stands of valuable old forest under protection.

What plant life grows here?

The primary conservation targets are the remnants of primeval fir-beech forest, along with spring ash forests growing along streams and alder floodplain forests in areas with a high water table. The tree stand is dominated by spruce and European beech, accompanied to a lesser degree by silver fir and sycamore maple. The forest floor supports numerous fern species and other herbaceous plants typical of shaded, moisture-rich woodland habitats with consistently high soil and air humidity.

What animals live in the reserve?

The varied structure of the old-growth forest supports a rich bird community. Black woodpecker and three-toed woodpecker have both been recorded here, along with wood pigeon. Other species associated with the site include ring ouzel, black stork, and capercaillie — birds that depend on old, largely undisturbed forest complexes, so their presence points to the high ecological value of this small but distinctive area.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Velký a Malý Polom located? The reserve lies within the cadastral area of Velká Střítež, in the Železné hory range, at an elevation of 545–625 metres above sea level.

How large is the protected area? The reserve covers approximately 20 hectares.

Why does the reserve consist of two separate parts? Velký and Malý Polom are two distinct fragments of old-growth forest, separated by a strip of commercially managed spruce forest, which naturally divides the site into two parts sharing one name.

Since when has the area been protected? Protection was established in 1933, and the reserve's boundaries were expanded in 1955.

Which bird species can be observed here? Notable species include black woodpecker, three-toed woodpecker, wood pigeon, ring ouzel, black stork, and capercaillie.