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Description
Jakovački ključ English oak forest is one of the few still-standing floodplain areas with more than two centuries old oak forests. The forest, also known as SRC Surčin, has 160 hectares and almost 140 so far recorded bird species. Along the northern edge lies a canal, formerly a part of the River Galovica, adding Garganey, Whiskered Tern, Pygmy Cormorant, Little Bittern and Black-crowned Night Heron to the scene but, in warm days, also a line of numerous anglers.
I particularly like Jakovački ključ in winter, when bare branches allow you to actually see all those forest birds: Brambling, Eurasian Bullfinch, Coal Tit, Goldcrest, Firecrest, Mistle Thrush, Redwing, Hawfinch, Eurasian Siskin, etc. Woodpeckers include Middle Spotted Woodpecker, Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, Eurasian Green Woodpecker and Black Woodpecker.
Later in spring, my preferred season becomes April (migration peak / early breeding season for resident species), because the oak leaves are not fully formed, making birds a bit more visible than later: Wood Warbler, Song Thrush, Common Nightingale, Pied Flycatcher, Common Redstart, Black Redstart, Hawfinch, European Serin. The canal is adorned with Penduline Tit and Great Reed Warbler and the surrounding fields with Eurasian Hoopoe. Also, there is about 50 pairs-strong colony of Grey Heron with several pairs of Black-crowned Night Heron near the tarmac-covered football field in the SW.
Details
Access
Zoom in on the map and click on the "P" (parking) sign for driving directions. Jakovački ključ forest may also be reached by public bus 602, which departs from New Belgrade, Block 44. The trail marked on the map is about 6 km long. Insect repellant is a good idea in summer.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , WetlandConditions
FlatCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Winter , Spring , Spring migrationRoute
Paved road , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Once this forest was a recreational centre (SRC Surčin) with volleyball and tennis courts, and bungalows for rent belonging to Yugoslav Army. Yet, after the 1990s army personnel refugees permanently settled the bungalows in the centre of the forest, turning it into a suburb of Surčin. Hence, nowadays there is a city connection by public transport system. Saddly, locals tend to use this forest as an unofficial rubbish tip.