Fauna of the Veľká Fatra
The Veľká Fatra is home to a rich fauna typical of the Western Carpathians. More than 200 species of vertebrates live in the territory of the national park, including all three large carnivores of Slovakia.
Large carnivores: The brown bear (Ursus arctos), the wolf (Canis lupus) and the lynx (Lynx lynx) make up the so-called “big three” Carpathian carnivores. Their presence is an indicator of a healthy and wild ecosystem.
Predators: The golden eagle, peregrine falcon and eagle owl nest in the rock walls. Mountain buzzard and hawk hunt in forest clearings.
Other species: The Tatra chamois was introduced in the 1970s and its population is stable. Woodpeckers, including the three-toed woodpecker, nest in the primeval forests.
