Nature Monuments - Enthralling Plitvice Caves

Plitvice Lakes National Park boasts with 114 speleological objects, and some of them are so valuable that they have been additionally protected as nature monuments. One unusually important group of bioindicators finds refuge in these objects - bats. These night fliers play crucial roles in forest regeneration process; they pollinate numerous plants and disperse seeds, as well as control insect populations as the primary predators of night-flying insects.

Take advantage of these peaceful periods and explore the impressive underworld in silence, without crowds and noise. Usually at this time of the year, bats are fully active and feeding. Females are looking for suitable nursery sites to start maternity colonies, such as caves, buildings or trees. Males roost on their own or in small groups. However, if temperatures suddenly drop they may go back in a shalter.

During hibernation bats must slow or shut down all vital functions in order to conserve energy - their heart beats only 6 - 10 times per minute, body temperature drops to only a few degrees above 0 °C, and they lower their metabolic rate and immune system. It is of the outmost importance that hibernating bats are not disturbed, as well as maternity colonies in early-to-mid summer (depending on the species) when bats give birth and rear their young.

If possible, hire a professional guide to get a better picture of the importance and the sensitivity of caves.

In view of the current situation, be sure to plan and arrange all details ahead:

- check the current working hours and terms of visit;
- make contact at least 7 days before the desired arrival, especially if you plan a weekend trip, because the number of visitors per group is often limited;
- follow the weather forecast so you don’t get deprived of new experiences.

Explore nature monuments, caves:
Golubinjača
Šupljara
Crna pećina

Reservations and info:
tel:+385(0)53 751-014
tel:+385(0)53 751-015

Enjoy the serenity of nature, discounts, cheaper tickets, and fewer crowds!