A Serbian bird-watching group has successfully used crowdfunding to purchase a small woodland, saving it from potential destruction. The 5-acre (2-hectare) plot, named Nightingale's Forest, is located in the flat, agricultural region of northeastern Serbia. The Bird Protection and Study Society bought the land last year after it was put up for sale, fearing the trees would be cut down for timber.
“This woodland was privately owned, and we saw it was put up for sale,” said society representative Uros Stojiljkovic. “The value of timber was higher than its price. We protected it this way.” The purchase price of €8,000 ($9,500) was raised in less than a month, and additional donations continue to fund fieldwork and potential land purchases.
The success of the initiative reflects growing interest in nature protection in Serbia, a country facing environmental challenges such as air and river pollution, waste management, and profit-driven construction. While authorities have pledged to improve environmental care as part of EU membership efforts, activists say little has been achieved.
Nightingale's Forest is home to various bird and animal species that thrive in its moist habitat. The society plans to catalogue the plants and animals while preserving the woodland in its natural state. “Individually, we can't do much, but as an active and stable community, we can achieve a lot,” said Natasa Jancic, who was involved in the campaign.
Founded 30 years ago as a small expert group, the society has grown into a community of nature lovers, including families and others who want to contribute. Stojiljkovic acknowledged that protecting just 5 acres is a small step, but he hopes it inspires others. “Every village or town should have a Nightingale's Forest of its own for a cumulative effect,” he said. “It is important to start somewhere.”
