Škocjanski zatok Nature Reserve is a Mediterranean wetland covering an area of 122 hectares. It is the largest brackish wetland in Slovenia, well-known for its rich fauna and flora. Located on the outskirts of the town of Koper, the reserve is commonly known as ‘the green heart of Koper’.
The reserve consists of two parts:
- a brackish lagoon with breeding islets, saltmarshes and mudflats overgrown with a variety of halophytic plants, and
- a freshwater marsh with wet meadows, open water areas surrounded by reedbeds and termophile shrubs.
The visit to Škocjanski zatok is an excellent choice for all who wish to experience the rich biodiversity of a Mediterranean wetland. Walking along the visitor trail, the visitors can explore the rich fauna and flora of the reserve boasting numerous rare and endangered species. Camargue horses and Istrian cattle, which help to maintain the vegetation balance of the freshwater marsh, add to the diversity of fauna found in the reserve. As a protected area visitor, you need to be aware that protected areas of nature are primarily home to a variety of endangered species and that people have to adjust their behavior to their needs.
