Nature reserve on the edge of the spa parks
About 2 km southwest of Františkovy Lázně, on the edge of the spa parks, there is the nature reserve Amerika. The pond is surrounded by thick reeds, sedges and wetlands. Thanks to the declaration of a reservation, optimal conditions for nesting and migration of birds, but also other animals, especially amphibians, are ensured in the large western part.
Pond America
America is the largest pond in the vicinity of Františkovy Lázně. Its western part with the island was declared a nature reserve in 1990. The eastern part serves as a recreational area, visitors can ride boats, swim or enjoy restaurants here, and can be reached by mini-train from Františkovy Lázně.
An important breeding ground and migration stop for many species of birds
The western part of the pond is an important nesting and migration stop for waterfowl and amphibians. Therefore, it is declared a nature reserve and the area is not accessible. Currently, this reserve is home to the only stable colony of laughing gulls in Karlovy Vary.
View of the island in the reserve from the shore of the pond
At the intersection with the road to Camp Jadran there is a small parking lot and from there it is possible to observe the shore of the opposite island, where the birds are usually the most abundant.
Bird observatory
In the northern part of the pond, there is an elevated wooden bird observatory by the road near the dam.
Educational blackboard
Inside the observatory there are clear educational boards depicting the local water birds.