For preserving biological diversity and for ensuring the favorable status of threatened species and habitats, 18,8% of Estonia's land area and 28% of the water area has been taken under protection.

Estonia has a total of 3,946 protected natural objects including:

  • 6 national parks;
  • 231 nature reserves;
  • 156 landscape protection areas (nature parks);
  • 471 parks and stands;
  • 319 limited-conservation areas;
  • 1,633 species’ protection sites;
  • 1,076 individual protected natural objects;
  • 22 natural objects protected at the local government level;
  • 38 protected areas with old protection regulation.

 

Metsis

The western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus). Photo by Jaanus Tanilsoo