Subotička Peščara

The Subotica-Horgoš sandy area

Subotička Peščara or Subotica Sands are a landscape of exceptional distinction in Serbia. The area stretches across the far north of Bačka in the municipality of Subotica and occupies an area of 53.70 km². Today's undulating sand dunes are a result of the great movement of sand caused by excessive cattle grazing. The planned forestation of the Subotica Sands began in the late 18th century. Today's mix of forestland, steppes and swamps coupled with the banks of the river Kires, make this area the most vulnerable sandsteppe habitat of its type in Europe.

Flora

Traces of primeval vegetation from the Subotica Sands provide valuable testimony to the plant life of the ancient Pannonian Plain. Among the preserved species is the Meadow Saffron which has its only growing spot in Serbia in the Subotica Sands.

Fauna

A number of rodent species have been recorded in the Subotica Sands, most notably the Lesser Mole Rat. A total of around 170 different bird species have been observed here. This is the reason why the area is part of the international important bird areas conservation programme.^[1]

References

1. NATURE OF SERBIA - Holiday on the move. Belgrade: National Tourism Organisation of Serbia. 2013. p. 6. ISBN 978-86-6005-295-9.