The park's varied habitats support a diverse array of wildlife. The wetlands are particularly important for birds, serving as breeding grounds for species like the wood sandpiper, golden plover, and crane. Large mammals such as moose and deer can be spotted in the forested areas. The park is also home to numerous butterfly species, dragonflies, and other insects adapted to bog environments. During migration seasons, the wetlands become important stopover points for various waterfowl species.
The park hosts a rich diversity of plant species adapted to both wetland and forest environments. The raised bogs feature characteristic species such as Sphagnum moss, cotton grass, and sundew plants. The drier esker areas support pine forests with lingonberry and blueberry undergrowth. Several rare and threatened plant species can be found in the park, including various orchids and specialized bog plants. The transition zones between different habitats create particularly diverse plant communities.
The park's landscape was primarily formed during the last ice age, when retreating glaciers carved out the current topography. The area features extensive raised bogs that have developed over thousands of years through the accumulation of peat moss. The Pohjankangas esker, a prominent glacial formation, runs through the western part of the park, creating a distinct ridge of sorted glacial deposits. This geological diversity has resulted in a unique combination of wetland and upland environments.
The area has been shaped by both natural processes and human activities over thousands of years. Traditional land uses included peat harvesting, forestry, and berry picking by local communities. The region gained protected status in 1982 when it was established as a national park, primarily to preserve its unique raised bog ecosystems. The park is also historically significant for its role in Finland's tar production industry during the 18th and 19th centuries, with remnants of old tar pits still visible in some areas.
The park's most distinctive feature is the Kauhaneva raised bog complex, one of the most representative examples of such ecosystems in Southern Finland. The extensive network of duckboards allows visitors to explore the bog safely while protecting the sensitive environment. The Pohjankangas esker provides excellent hiking opportunities and stunning views over the surrounding landscape. The park also features several observation towers offering panoramic views of the wetlands, particularly spectacular during sunrise and sunset.
Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas experiences a typical Finnish continental climate with distinct seasonal variations. Summers are mild with average temperatures between 15-20°C (59-68°F), while winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing. The area receives significant precipitation throughout the year, with slightly higher rainfall during late summer and autumn. Spring thaw typically begins in April, making the wetlands particularly active with meltwater. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions and pack appropriate gear regardless of season.
Finland
62.1830°, 22.4170°
1982
57
Kauhaneva-Pohjankangas National Park features extensive mire ecosystems and pine forests. The park is known for its valuable wetlands and rare bird species. It represents one of the most significant raised bog complexes in Southern Finland.