As many as 15 habitats from 1 Appendix of Habitats Directive can be distinguished within a relatively undiversified area of Ujscie Odry and Zalew Szczecinski refuge. Well developed coastal and rush vegetation secure perfect conditions for various bird species which feed, breed and rest during migrations and winter in the area. Many fish species perform spawning here. Ujscie Odry and Zalew Szczecinski has been taken under protection by European Network Natura 2000 as the Site of Community Importance. The area is characterized by small diversity of the land. Zalew Szczecinski constitutes the main part of the refuge. It is a large reservoir which average depth of 3.5-4 m. A belt of shallow water stretches along its shores. A basic element of the ecosystem are waters of Zalew Szczecinski and estuarial part of the Odra. The lagoon is shallow and mostly overgrown by vegetation. Land habitats cover only a little more than 10% of the refuge area. The lagoon is a transitional sphere between salty sea waters and inland fresh waters. The lagoon is connected with the Baltic Sea by the Dzwina, Swina and Piana rivers. more »

The easiest way to reach the refuge is either from the east, taking road no. 3 which runs from Szczecin to Swinoujscie, or from the west, taking the road from Szczecin to Nowe Warpno. more »