Designated terrestrial protected areas

Lithuania’s system of terrestrial protected areas covers diverse landscapes and natural features, encompassing approximately 18.5% of the country’s territory (17.76% in 2022 and 18.4% in 2023). It includes five strict reserves (two cultural), around 400 general reserves, five national parks (one historic), one biosphere reserve, 33 biosphere polygons, three recuperation plots and numerous heritage sites. Since Lithuania joined the EU in 2004, its protected areas have been integrated into the Natura 2000 network, meeting the EU Birds Directive and Habitats Directive requirements. Natura 2000 areas often overlap with existing areas like strict reserves, parks and biosphere reserves, strengthening national conservation efforts while ensuring compliance with EU standards. The Natura 2000 network supports biodiversity through 85 areas protecting birds and 624 areas protecting habitats.

In the last two years, new protected areas have also been established: a telmological reserve and a biosphere polygon for bird protection. In the preparation of new spatial planning documents for regional parks, the boundaries have been adjusted and the regional parks extended to take into account changes in values and conservation needs.