More than 27,000 protected areas in the European Natura 2000 network, that’s at least 27,000 reasons to celebrate!
Wild landscapes, biodiverse farmland, hidden gems of nature just around the corner...Natura 2000 has it all. And there’s probably at least one site just next to where you live!
Find a Natura 2000 site near you
OR
Take a look at the interactive map of the Natura 2000 network.
Did you know there are over 100 World Heritage sites within or near Natura 2000 sites?
Natura 2000 Day BioBlitz
Because one day is just not enough to celebrate our incredible European network of protected nature sites, we invite everyone to organise or join BioBlitz events in Natura 2000 areas throughout a whole week, around Natura 2000 Day.
What is a BioBlitz?
A BioBlitz is a fun, hands-on biodiversity survey where participants try to find and identify as many species as possible in a specific area and time. It’s a great way to connect with nature, learn more about local wildlife, and contribute to science.
2025 Edition (May 17-25)
- More than 70 BioBlitz events in 18 countries
- Over 4,500 species observed
- More than 85,000 observations recorded
2024 Edition (May 18-26)
- 67 BioBlitz events in 14 countries
- More than 3,900 species observed
- More than 70,000 observations recorded
Thank you for taking part and making nature count!
The 2026 edition will take place May 16-24. Stay tuned!
Are you a Natura 2000 manager, an organisation or an individual interested in promoting Natura 2000?
Nature
ec [dot] europa [dot] eu (Contact us and tell us about your ideas.)
Stories
"Look around. Explore your home. Get to know the nature that surrounds you – and help protect it. Sometimes, the most special places are the ones we’ve always taken for granted."
Nestled in the heart of Romania, the Transylvanian Highlands are one of Europe’s most ecologically rich regions, protected under the Natura 2000 network.
As a “slow-travel” influencer, Eveline encourages people to learn more about sustainability and find unique experiences across Europe by taking a train. Ahead of Natura2000 Day, she has picked 5 protected areas that everyone should visit.
"Without biodiversity, there's no life. Our campaign aims to raise awareness about this and amaze people with the incredible variety of life, even right in their own backyards."
"Nature provides peace, wonder, and the joy of discovery—it's truly self-enriching. I go out almost every day to explore either in the wild or my garden, to document what I see."
About Natura 2000 Day
The European Union declared 21 May as European Natura 2000 Day to celebrate the Natura 2000 network - one of the EU's most outstanding achievements – and to honour the efforts of everyone involved in making it a success.
The network is rooted in the EU Habitats Directive and Birds Directive, and today consists of more than 27,000 sites across EU land and seas, successfully contributing to the preservation of our unique European natural heritage.