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. Bats will begin to emerge now, but the level of activity will still be limited though. As the temperatures increase, small numbers will begin to search for food and water. However, if temperatures suddenly drop they may go back into a state of semi-hibernation.

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.

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!