Cranes in the Meadows of Białowieża Forest – First Signs of Spring
Early spring in the Białowieża Forest is a time of transition – a moment when winter hasn’t fully loosened its grip, yet the sun more frequently peeks through the treetops, and the scent of thawing earth hints at rebirth. We ventured there during just such a moment – between frost and melting soil, when light begins to shift in tone and the forest breathes differently. I was joined by two guests visiting Poland for the first time. I wanted to show them not only the country’s historic landmarks or cuisine but something far more precious – its wild nature.
Our first steps led us toward the wetlands surrounding the forest. It’s there, between late February and early March, that cranes gather. Their resounding trumpeting carried across the land before we even spotted the first silhouettes. In the morning mist, among the last melting patches of snow, they began to descend – at first alone, then in groups – forming a vast, majestic flock. They stood knee-deep in water, some with wings outstretched, others calm, their beaks tucked into feathers. It felt as if we had stepped into a sacred springtime ritual. Though my guests had seen many things, they watched in awe. For them, Poland began with the sound and flight of cranes.
Wildlife Watching – Roe Deer and First Signs of Bison
Our journey continued through village clearings and forest paths. There we encountered roe deer. At first, they darted past us quickly, but soon, as if getting used to our presence, they lingered in the open fields, watching us with curiosity. We saw many – does with fawns, solitary bucks, and small groups moving from one edge of a field to another. Each figure appeared almost painted – slender and sharply defined against the grey-brown palette of early spring. Although a common species, in this setting every deer became a symbol – a sign of life persisting in a harsh landscape still preparing for the return of green.
We entered Białowieża Forest from one of the more popular trails but quickly veered off the beaten path. The forest at this time of year is demanding – muddy, damp, at times treacherously boggy – but also authentic. We searched for signs of bison, our main goal. Tracks appeared almost immediately – hoof prints, broken branches, fresh droppings – all unmistakable signs: they had been here recently. And sure enough, between clumps of alder trees, we spotted a silhouette. A massive bison bull stood motionless, alert, ready to vanish. He watched us for maybe three seconds – enough to feel his presence like a jolt. Then he disappeared into the thicket. We didn’t reach for our cameras in time. There was no regret – encounters like this are priceless, even if not captured on film.
Where to See Bison – Clearings and Forest Edges of Białowieża
We changed our strategy – instead of venturing deeper into the thickets, we began visiting clearings and the forest’s edges. From experience, I knew that at this time of year, bison often emerge there to graze – in search of green shoots, remnants of plants, and young buds. After several hours, we succeeded – we found a herd peacefully feeding in a forest clearing. Adults and young moved slowly, occasionally lifting their heads to glance our way. We kept enough distance not to disturb them, but close enough to feel the emotion. The sun, beginning to set, cast a golden hue over the entire scene.
We thought our journey had reached its highlight, but the forest’s edge held one more surprise. A second herd – a few individuals – stood as if posed for a portrait. The king of the forest against the setting sun… They positioned themselves almost theatrically, as if they knew this was the perfect moment to remain still. It was then that we captured the most beautiful photos of the trip.
Białowieża Forest in March – Nature That Stays in Your Memory
Along the way, we also spotted buzzards – in flight, perched on branches, or gliding over fields. These birds, often overlooked, carry a quiet majesty. To us, they represent the spirit of wild Poland – ever-present yet unobtrusive. Our guests were captivated by their elegance and how seamlessly they fit into the landscape.
A trip to the Białowieża Forest is more than just wildlife watching. It’s a journey into a world governed by its own rhythms. It offers nothing on demand, but if you arrive with openness and patience, it gives back more than you expect. This trip reminded us how little it takes to feel close to nature: a bit of time, attentiveness, and a willingness for the unexpected. Days like this stay with you – like footprints on a path that don’t vanish with the first rain, but etch themselves into memory for good.
