Description
Siemianówka Reservoir is situated about 30km to the north of Bialowieza. The banks of this man-made reservoir vary from muddy, with pools to grass-covered or concrete slopes. It is a large (over 32 sqkm) reservoir on upper Narew river. Although this is an artificial lake, it is quite a popular birding spot among Polish birders. The lake is crossed at its eastern part by a railwaytrack that divides the reservoir into two parts. The railwaytrack is the most visited spot by birders, as the dykes that come along the railway provide quite easy walking and provide good views for both sides of the lake. The best areas to visit are the eastern parts, where the edges of the lake end with muddy plains and wet meadows. To the south, the lake touches the norhern edges of Bialowieza Forest.
All three marsh terns breed here in summer, both storks, Ušati gnjurac, Kosac as well as Patka Pupčanica, Patka Žličarka and Kržulja. There are two species of particular interest: Dugonoga prutka and Limunasta Pastirica have recently begun to breed here (at the far, eastern end of the lake). Raptors in summer include Štekavac, Bukoč, Škanjac osaš and Orao Kliktaš. Passerines of interest include Planinska ševa, Pjegava Grmuša, Rujnica and Vrtna strnadica. Passage periods bring a range of waders to the reservoir.
Details
Access
Siemianowka village is situated close to the south shore of the reservoir and can be reached by road from Bialowieza via Hajnowka . Alternatively follow the track from Stara Bialowieza north to Nareka via Janowo. The best birding areas are the south and east shores but those wishing to try the northern side of the reservoir can reach it by leaving Siemianowka village westwards to Juskowy Grod and from there east to Ciskowa. Most visitors incorporate Siemianowka into a trip to Bialowieza and find accommodation there.
