OsogovoMountains
Osogovo region, North Macedonia
Bringing life back to the Osogovo Mountain
Stretching across the borders of North Macedonia and Bulgaria, the Osogovo Mountain is a sanctuary for Brown Bears, Golden Eagles, and rare Balkan endemic plants. Its mosaic of forests and grasslands is not only beautiful but also vital to the region’s environmental health.
Fragmentation and degradation of Osogovo’s forests are weakening the mountain’s natural defences and increasing the risk of wildfires and landslides. Invasive species, unsustainable farming, and poaching further disrupt the ecosystem. Fortunately, the Macedonian Ecological Society, BirdLife’s Partner in North Macedonia, is spearheading a mission to restore Osogovo and revive its biodiversity.
Our Future Vision
The Osogovo region’s biodiversity thrives alongside vibrant local traditions. Through well-managed forests and restored riparian zones, the mountain stands an example of ecological restoration across the Balkans. Forests are more resilient to climate change, with reduced soil erosion and healthier ecosystems that have brought back species like the Semi-collared Flycatcher and White-backed Woodpecker. Traditional fruit orchards flourish alongside a mosaic of healthy forests and meadows. Local communities lead the way in promoting eco-tourism and help protect Osogovo’s natural and cultural heritage for generations to come.
OSOGOVO AT A GLANCE
300+
Species
3+
Habitat types
110,224
Hectares
Habitat types
Forests, grasslands, farmlands
Key Species
Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca), Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus), Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus), Semicollared Flycatcher (Ficedula semitorquata), White-backed Woodpecker (Dendrocopos leucotos), Boreal Owl (Aegolius funereus), Black Stork (Ciconia nigra), Balkan Crested Newt (Triturus ivanbureschi), Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), Eagle Owl (Bubo bubo), Brown Bear (Ursus arctos), European Otter (Lutra lutra), Stone Crayfish (Austropotamobius torrentium), Persian Whorlflower (Morina persica), Stag’s-horn Clubmoss (Lycopodium clavatum), (Genista fukarekiana)
Designations
National Protected Landscape, Important Bird Area, Important Plant Area, Emerald Network
Main causes of degradation
Deforestation, poor land management, poaching, invasive species, unsustainable agriculture, wildfires, landslides, erosion
Our plan: Restoring the Osogovo for nature, people, and the planet
- Restore at least 2,500 hectares of degraded oak and beech forests, as well as clear-cut areas
- Restore at least 340 hectares of riparian alder and willow forests along with over 90 hectares of degraded riverbanks, stabilising slopes, reducing erosion, and benefiting species like the European Otter, Stone Crayfish, and Golden-ringed Dragonfly.
- Transform at least 500 hectares of monocultural pine plantations into ecologically diverse mixed forests, reducing the risk of wildfire, disease, and improving carbon sequestration.
- Revive traditional fruit varieties, such as apples, plums, and pears, supporting local economies.
- Eliminate the invasive Tree of Heaven through control measures following a thorough analysis of its impact on the landscape.
“For the first time ever, MES and the Public Enterprise National Forests have come together to create a shared vision for restoring the Osogovo region. This collaboration will help restore and reconnect ecosystems and secure the long-term conservation of the area’s natural heritage. We can’t wait to begin this important work!”Despina Kitanova – Project manager at MES
