The Paramelis Nature Restoration Fund has successfully preserved its first two forest areas

The Paramėlis Nature Restoration Fund, dedicated to preserving valuable natural habitats in southern Lithuania, has reached a historic milestone. This autumn, the Fund successfully acquired its first two forest areas — a combined 4.5 hectares within the vast Dainava Forest. These will be permanently protected and left to natural ecological processes. By the end of the year, two more forest plots are expected to be added, marking a major step toward reconnecting Lithuania's fragmented forest ecosystems. 

A Century-Old Pine Forest Returns to Nature

The first forest area spans 2.5 hectares and is approximately 100 years old. This mature pine woodland stands on the site of a historical capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) lek — once a vibrant display ground for this rare bird species.
For years, the area was affected by nearby logging, but from now on it will be left entirely to nature. The forest already supports diverse wildlife: boreal owls (Aegolius funereus) can be heard singing at night, wolves have been sighted, and even a bear made a brief appearance this spring.

A Young Forest with Promising Potential

The second forest, covering 2 hectares, lies in the Varėna District, near Paramėlis village and the Čepkeliai Bog. It stretches along the Katra River wetlands and consists mainly of middle-aged pine trees. Although its current natural value is modest due to previous forestry activities, wolves, lynxes, and other wildlife already roam the area.

Over the coming decades, this forest is expected to develop into an important habitat as it matures. Surrounded by wet alder stands and transitional mires, and free from human disturbance, its ecological value will increase naturally over time.

Building a Network of "Nature Islands"

The Fund envisions these two plots as the first stepping stones in a growing network of protected "nature islands" across southern Lithuania. As more habitats are acquired and restored, these areas will gradually form a continuous natural corridor, allowing biodiversity to thrive undisturbed and improving resilience against climate and land-use pressures.

Supported by Nature Lovers and Local Communities

The acquisition of these first forests was made possible thanks to citizens' generosity. A major share of the funding came from nature enthusiasts in Germany, who had visited southern Lithuania through the Fund's partners and decided to contribute after witnessing the beauty and vulnerability of the region's wilderness.

Lithuanian citizens also played an important role, donating 1.2% of their income tax to the Fund. Additional support was raised through campaigns and conservation events, showcasing the power of community-driven conservation.

Looking Ahead: Science and Stewardship

The Paramėlis Nature Restoration Fund plans to conduct further ecological research in both forest areas to monitor natural regeneration and wildlife presence. These findings will guide future conservation efforts and help expand the protected area network.

With each new hectare preserved, the Fund moves closer to its vision — a wild and thriving southern Lithuania, where forests, wetlands, and wildlife can flourish for generations to come.