“Budapest’s only real swamp”. That’s quite a claim isn’t it? Here we are at Merzse mocsár. It is a unique natural treasure.
Merzse mocsár lies in Budapest’s District XVII. It is close to Ferenc Liszt International Airport. This is one of the city’s most undisturbed wetland habitats. It is a surviving remnant of the once common marshy areas on the Pest side.
In 1977, the area was declared protected. In 1999, the protected area expanded to 40 hectares. A 15-station nature trail was built in 2012. It features informative signs.
The area has two distinct parts. The larger marshy area is Merzse mocsár. Gyolcs-rét is a marshy area closer to the city.
The swamp’s plant life is typical of wetland habitats. The shrinking marsh only has open water in spring. It appears after heavy rainfall.
Extensive reeds and sedges cover the area. A shrubby meadow and willow-poplar gallery forest line its edges. The open water has visibly increased in recent years. This attracts more birds.
Merzse mocsár has rich wildlife. Several protected bird species nest here. These include the Montagu’s harrier, great bittern, reed warbler, and moorhen. The surrounding groves are home to the European roller and cuckoo. You might spot a kestrel, sparrowhawk or red-footed falcon. Pheasants and partridges are also common. Bring binoculars for bird watching.
Amphibians and reptiles thrive here. The European pond turtle has a large population in the capital here. You may see rabbits, deer or foxes.
The swamp buzzes with insects. The sound drowns out the nearby planes. This rich insect population thrives in Merzse mocsár.
The nature trail helps you explore the area. The trail has 15 stations. The first station is at Rákoskert train station. Nine stations are near Merzse mocsár. Five are near Gyolcs-rét.
The trail is about 6 km long. Each sign includes a map. You can shorten the trail between stations 8 and 9. Continue straight on the road. A sharp right turn will take you back to the starting point in 15 minutes.
The most exciting part of the trail leads to the new lookout tower. This is between stations 2 and 6. The tower offers a great view of the swamp’s plant life. You will need luck and binoculars to spot birds.
From the resting area, the trail continues. It follows a narrow path then a wide road. You will pass through a poplar grove. Many milkweeds grow along the road.
The trail is marked with a green frog on a white background. The markings are frequent and easy to follow. Red + signs also mark the route from Rákoskert station. From station 12, the path is monotonous. It runs straight through farmland on a dusty or muddy road. Shorten the route with small children.
The trail is difficult with strollers. Sandy paths and puddles make it challenging. The narrow path along the swamp is not stroller-friendly.
Merzse mocsár offers a unique glimpse into a vital ecosystem. It’s a place where nature persists despite the city’s growth. Take a moment to appreciate this hidden gem.