Wildlife native to Slovakia runs from the very small and exotic to the very large. Slovakia is a land of mountains and forests, deciduous and coniferous, and the steppes. The forests are home to multiple species of birds and small mammals and the steppes see the larger animals, bison and deer. The carnivores make their home in the forests, the lynx,
wild boar and wolf live and hunt here. Slovakian folklore is full of stories about the wild boar and the dreaded wolf. Birdlife includes eagles, and the
great bustard. The bustard is an endangered species receiving international attention as Slovakia works to preserve its wildlife heritage
But two of the most extreme animals are native to this mountainous and beautiful land: the marmot and the Hucul horse. The marmot is a small mammal, herbivores that can live an average of 6 years. They live in family groups. They are considered an endangered species due to predators, eagles, and poachers.
The Hucul horse dates back to the 1600's as a bred work horse suited to the steppes. It is an average 13 hands and sturdy and good natured. It can live on the rough grazing vegetation of the steppes and is used for farm work and a thriving horse tourism trade. Their easy nature makes them good rides and work partners and their generally healthy nature ensures a daily output of tourist pleasure and crop output.
From the large to the small, Slovakia hosts an animal ark that amazes and endures.