The Bukk Mountains in northern Hungary contain the country's largest continuous forest. Ancient beech and oak woodlands blanket limestone hills riddled with caves, creating habitats for wildlife that struggle to survive elsewhere in increasingly fragmented landscapes.
A Forest Sanctuary
Established in 1976, Bukk National Park protects over 43,000 hectares of forested terrain. The limestone karst plateau rises to nearly 1,000 meters and contains an estimated 1,000 caves, some of which were inhabited by prehistoric humans. Today, the caves provide vital hibernation sites for bats.
The forest composition changes with altitude and aspect. Lower slopes support thermophilous oak woodland, while higher areas are dominated by European beech - some stands old enough to qualify as ancient forest. These varied woodland types host different bird communities.
Woodpecker Paradise
Bukk supports all seven woodpecker species found regularly in Hungary, making it one of Europe's best locations for this charismatic family:
Black Woodpecker
The largest European woodpecker, crow-sized with a striking red cap. Its loud laughing call echoes through the forest, and its rectangular nest holes in beech trees are conspicuous. Look for fresh wood chips at tree bases in spring.
Middle Spotted Woodpecker
An oak forest specialist with a distinctive weak, almost squeaky call quite unlike other woodpeckers. Less bold than Great Spotted, it often forages high in the canopy. The entirely red crown distinguishes it from similar species.
Grey-headed Woodpecker
Resembles a subtle version of the Green Woodpecker, with males showing only a red forehead patch. Declining in many areas but present in Bukk's mixed forests. Its melancholic descending song is often the first sign of its presence.
Other Species
Great Spotted and Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers are common. Green Woodpecker favors forest edges and clearings. The rare White-backed Woodpecker has been recorded but remains extremely scarce.
Woodpecker Watching Tips
Early spring (March-April) is optimal when drumming and calling peaks. Woodpeckers are more detectable by sound than sight - learn calls before visiting. Check old beech trees with large nest holes; these are often reused annually.
Owls of the Night Forest
Bukk's extensive mature forest provides excellent habitat for owls, including species requiring large territories:
- Ural Owl - This impressive owl needs large, undisturbed forest with old trees for nesting. Bukk supports a viable population. Sometimes active on overcast days.
- Tawny Owl - Common resident throughout the forest, its familiar hooting is the night-time soundtrack.
- Long-eared Owl - Breeds in forest edge habitat; forms winter roosts that can hold dozens of birds.
- Tengmalm's Owl - Rare breeder at higher elevations in mature spruce; best detected by call in early spring.
Forest Mammals
Large mammals remain relatively common in Bukk thanks to habitat connectivity with surrounding forests:
Red Deer
A healthy population provides memorable encounters, especially during the autumn rut (September-October) when stag roaring echoes through the valleys. Dawn and dusk visits to forest meadows offer the best sightings.
Wild Boar
Common but wary, more often detected by rooting damage than direct observation. Occasionally seen on quiet forest roads at dusk.
European Wildcat
Bukk is one of Hungary's strongholds for this elusive predator. Distinguished from feral cats by stockier build and bushy tail with blunt tip, wildcats are rarely seen but definitely present.
Other Species
Roe Deer are common. Pine Marten and Badger occur throughout. Introduced Mouflon sheep graze rocky slopes. The caves support important bat populations, including Greater and Lesser Horseshoe Bats.
Where to Watch
Szilvasvarad Valley
A scenic valley with good facilities including a forest railway. The beech forests here hold Black Woodpecker and are good for deer. The Szalajka Valley trail leads to a lovely waterfall.
Bukk Plateau
The high limestone plateau offers different character - more open terrain with grassland clearings. Good for raptors and butterflies in summer. Access via forest roads from various points.
Lillafured Area
The famous cave systems at Lillafured offer combined cultural and natural interest. The surrounding forests are accessible and well-marked. The palace hotel provides upscale accommodation.
Practical Information
The park lies approximately 130km northeast of Budapest, easily reached via the M3 motorway toward Miskolc. Eger and Miskolc both offer good accommodation bases. The national park directorate in Eger provides maps and information.
Best Times to Visit
- April-June: Peak breeding activity, best for woodpeckers and songbirds
- September-October: Deer rut, autumn colors, migrating raptors
- Winter: Quieter but easier to spot woodpeckers in bare trees; owl calling begins
Last updated: February 2026