Publications
Flyway population increase and emergence of new wintering grounds with climate change in an Arctic-breeding goose
A significant rise in the Greater White-fronted Goose (GWfG) population along the Pannonic flyway, particularly in Hortobágy National Park, has been linked to climate change. Over 31 years (1989–2019), GWfG counts surged from under 2,000 to over 30,000 individuals, with a notable shift toward overwintering beginning in the mid-2000s. Milder winters, characterized by fewer frost and snowy days, have been the primary driver of this increase, while hunting disturbance and land cover changes played minor roles. Spring counts rose rapidly in the early years, whereas autumn counts increased more recently, indicating a dynamic response to climate shifts. The study highlights how climate change is reshaping migratory patterns, with implications for conservation strategies.
The late Quaternary environmental history of the Hortobágy landscape
A two-phase construction of the Ecse Mound, dating to the end of the Copper Age, has been revealed through sedimentological and malacological analysis. This discovery sheds light on the landscape evolution around Hortobágy National Park during the Holocene period, following the Middle and Upper Pleniglacial, and Late Glacial phases of the Ice Age. The study utilized undisturbed core drilling and radiocarbon (AMS) measurements to analyze sediment properties both within the mound and its substrate base rock. Additionally, it highlights the need for standardized methodology in kurgan research to ensure consistent and comparable results across different studies.
Harem size should be measured by more than the sum of its parts: Phenology‐based measurements reveal joint effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on a polygamous herbivore under non‐stationary climatic conditions
A 15-year study of Przewalski horses in Hortobágy National Park reveals that harem size stability in reintroduced populations is influenced by complex interactions between demography and climate, even under non-stationary conditions. Despite an eightfold increase in population size—from 21 to 174 individuals—and a corresponding rise in the number of harems from three to 23, harem sizes remained consistent. The research identifies adult sex ratio, annual mortality rates, mean number of harems, stallion age, and drought severity as key predictors of harem dynamics. These findings underscore the importance of intrinsic population processes in regulating social structures, offering critical insights for conservation strategies in semi-free-ranging species.
Late Quaternary Paleoecology and Environmental History of the Hortobágy, an Alkaline Steppe in Central Europe
Research challenges the long-held belief that Hungary's Hortobágy National Park—the Puszta, a UNESCO-listed alkaline steppe, was shaped by 19th-century human interventions. Instead, paleoecological and paleobiological evidence reveals its origins trace back to the end of the Ice Age, with minimal impact from early grazing practices. The study, using long-term data analysis, highlights that while ancient human activities had negligible influence on this unique ecosystem, 19th-century drainage and intensive agriculture significantly altered its landscape. This work underscores the natural resilience of alkaline steppes and provides critical insights for conservation efforts in similar cultural landscapes.
Biomassza-fajgazdagság kapcsolatok vizsgálata szikes gyepekben és vizes élőhelyeken
Research in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, reveals that species richness in grasslands and wetlands peaks at specific biomass levels, forming humped-back curves. Maximum diversity occurs at 750 g/m² for grasslands and 2000 g/m² for wetlands, with litter identified as a key factor limiting richness in highly productive ecosystems. The study analyzed eight grassland and five wetland types, examining relationships between total aboveground biomass, litter, and species diversity across productivity gradients. These findings provide critical insights for conservation strategies, balancing productivity with biodiversity to sustain ecosystem health.
Intestinal parasites in Przewalski's horses (Equus ferus przewalskii): a field survey at the Hortobágy National Park, Hungary
A field survey of Przewalski's horses (Equus ferus przewalskii) in the Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed a 100% prevalence of intestinal parasites, with strongyle-type eggs detected in all 79 fecal samples analyzed. The study identified an average of 1287 eggs per gram (EPG), indicating high fecal egg-shedding levels, and found that Cyathostominae were the dominant parasite subfamily, with Strongylus vulgaris being the most prevalent strongylin at 40.5%. Additionally, 27.8% of horses tested positive for Parascaris sp., while 2.5% harbored Oxyuris equi. The research also noted a higher prevalence of Triodontophorus serratus and Poteriostomum spp. in juveniles and observed that horses with S. vulgaris exhibited lower EPG levels. This was the first comprehensive study of intestinal parasites in this population, providing critical insights into their health dynamics within the Pentezug Wildhorse Reserve.
Open Spaces and Elements Designed to the Landscape of Hortobágy National Park
A unique morphologic system enhances landscape perception and identity in Hortobágy National Park, demonstrating how standardized design elements can harmonize with local characteristics. The study proposes a comprehensive approach to improve visitor experience, sustainability, and accessibility while addressing language barriers and lack of recognition. By integrating high-tech solutions and universal design principles, the research offers a viable model for Hungarian national parks, balancing economic viability, social engagement, and environmental sustainability. The methodology combines global case analysis, local data evaluation, experimental design, and iterative assessment to refine a cohesive landscape identity.
Zoochory on and off: A field experiment for trait‐based analysis of establishment success of grassland species
A field experiment at Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed that extensive cattle grazing (zoochory) significantly enhances the long-term establishment success of grassland species outside source plots. While fencing reduced cover and flowering in source plots, it decreased the likelihood of species colonizing surrounding areas. Successful colonizers were characterized by traits such as high specific leaf area, low dry matter content, short stature, light seeds, early flowering, and anemochory. This study challenges the assumption that fencing is always beneficial for grassland restoration, highlighting the importance of grazing in maintaining biodiversity.
A preliminary chronological study to understand the construction phases of a Late Copper–Early Bronze Age kurgan (kunhalom)
A two-phase construction of the Ecse Mound (Karcag-Kunmadaras, Hortobágy National Park, Hungary) during the Late Copper–Early Bronze Age has been identified through sedimentological and malacological analysis. The study reveals that the kurgan was built at the end of the Copper Age by communities of the Pit Grave Culture, with radiocarbon dating providing preliminary chronological data. Additionally, the research highlights the need for standardized methodology in kurgan studies to ensure consistency and comparability of results across different investigations.
Meat production and maintaining biodiversity: Grazing by traditional breeds and crossbred beef cattle in marshes and grasslands
Traditional cattle breeds play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity and habitat conservation values in marshes, outperforming crossbred beef cattle. A grazing experiment in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed that traditional breeds significantly increased species diversity and Shannon diversity in marsh habitats compared to crossbred cattle. Additionally, crossbred cattle grazing led to a decrease in moisture indicator values in these environments. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing traditional breeds for managing wet alkaline grasslands and marshes to balance agricultural production with nature conservation. This research provides evidence that breed-specific grazing practices can effectively harmonize the needs of both sectors.
Spatio-temporal structure and reproductive success in a Rook (Corvus frugilegus) colony
A study on rook colonies in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed that while early nesters laid larger clutches and showed breeding synchrony, their reproductive success did not differ from late nesters. However, hatchling survival and offspring number increased with local nest density, suggesting that late nesters benefit from clustering in densely populated areas. The research used spatio-temporal tracking of a 1999 rook colony to analyze nest location choices and breeding timing, showing that rooks exhibit non-random settlement patterns. These findings hint at adaptive strategies in colonial breeding, with potential insights from game theory to further explore the evolutionary significance.
Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis in Hungary: an overview of recent and historical occurrence
A study on the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) in Hungary reveals that it threatens amphibian populations, with an overall prevalence of 7.46% across 16 taxa. The research combined recent field sampling and historical data analysis, focusing on two sentinel species—Bombina variegata and the Pelophylax esculentus complex—in core areas like Hortobágy National Park. Notably, juvenile B. variegata showed higher Bd prevalence than adults, while infection intensity in P. esculentus was unaffected by sex, age, or sampling year. Climatic variables, such as monthly mean air temperature, were also linked to Bd prevalence, suggesting environmental factors influence the pathogen's impact. This comprehensive inventory underscores the need for systematic monitoring to mitigate chytridiomycosis in Hungarian amphibians.
Cultural heritage and biodiversity conservation – plant introduction and practical restoration on ancient burial mounds
A combination of seed sowing and transplanting greenhouse-grown plants proved most effective for reintroducing grassland species to ancient burial mounds, balancing cost-efficiency with higher establishment rates. Large-seeded species thrived when sown directly, while a broader range of species established better from transplants, though adult transplanting was more reliable but labor-intensive. Intensive management practices like heavy mowing or grazing should be avoided in the early years post-introduction to ensure successful establishment. This study demonstrates that integrating cultural heritage conservation with biodiversity restoration can revitalize traditional landscapes and restore cultural ecosystem services, offering a sustainable approach for preserving iconic steppe monuments.
The effect of different genotype cattle grazing on the nutrient content of saline grasslands vegetation
Grazing by both extensive and intensive cattle breeds is effective for maintaining the nutrient content and diversity of saline grasslands, crucial for both nature conservation and agricultural sustainability. The study found that grazing significantly impacts crude protein and life-sustaining net energy content in vegetation, with higher values observed under medium-density grazing over two years. While no significant differences were noted between Hungarian grey (extensive) and intensive beef cattle breeds on most parameters, intensive grazing slightly increased life-sustaining net energy content. Conducted across 16 sample areas in Hortobágy National Park from 2016 to 2017, the research analyzed dry matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and net energy content along moisture gradients, demonstrating that cattle grazing is essential for preserving both wet and mesophilous saline habitats.
A comparison of fecal steroid metabolite concentrations between harem and bachelor stallions in a free‐Ranging population of przewalski's horses (Equus ferus przewalskii)
A study comparing fecal steroid metabolite concentrations between harem and bachelor stallions in a free-ranging population of Przewalski's horses (Equus ferus przewalskii) at Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed significant differences based on sociosexual status. Harem stallions exhibited notably higher levels of estrogen and epi-androsterone metabolites compared to bachelor stallions, with no significant difference in testosterone concentrations. This finding underscores the impact of social dynamics on androgen levels in Przewalski's horses, providing insights into their reproductive behavior and endocrinology.
A new aspect of grassland vegetation dynamics: cyanobacterium colonies affect establishment success of plants
Cyanobacterium colonies significantly influence the establishment success of grassland plants, potentially shaping community diversity and species composition. The study found that Nostoc extracts reduced germination rates in five plant species and decreased fresh weight in invasive Hordeum jubatum, suggesting cyanobacteria can alter natural plant communities through chemical effects. Researchers synthesized existing knowledge on toxic cyanobacteria impacts and conducted controlled experiments using native alkali grassland species from Hortobágy National Park, Hungary. They prepared a cell-free water extract from field-collected Nostoc colonies and compared its effects with tap water on seed germination and growth over five weeks, measuring key variables such as seedling number, length, and biomass.
Hortobágy National Park
Hortobágy National Park, recognized as one of the darkest areas in Hungary and recently designated as an International Dark Sky Park, plays a crucial role in protecting both nocturnal biodiversity and the quality of the night sky. Light pollution poses significant threats to these aspects, necessitating specialized monitoring efforts. A unique program employs digital cameras to survey nocturnal species and track night sky conditions, while public engagement is fostered through stargazing night walks, drawing substantial interest from the general population.
Seasonal Variations in Heart Rate Variability as an Indicator of Stress in Free-Ranging Pregnant Przewalski's Horses (E. ferus przewalskii) within the Hortobágy National Park in Hungary
Przewalski's horses (Equus ferus przewalskii) in Hungary's Hortobágy National Park exhibit seasonal stress patterns, as indicated by decreased heart rate variability (HRV), particularly during winter and spring. This novel finding, derived from telemetric HRV measurements, reveals that these free-ranging mammals experience heightened allostatic load—likely due to limited resources in winter and increased energy demands during pregnancy or dietary transitions in spring. Unlike traditional stress indicators like glucocorticoid levels, HRV provides a non-invasive, long-term method to study undisturbed cardiovascular responses in wildlife. The study employed implanted transmitters to continuously monitor HRV, heart rate (HR), body temperature, and activity over a year, offering insights into the physiological challenges faced by mammals in seasonal ecosystems.
The effect of grazing of various cattle breeds on botanical composition of low-lying pasture in Hortobágy
Grazing by both extensive (Hungarian Grey) and intensive cattle breeds can effectively manage alkali grasslands, preserving species richness while influencing vegetation structure. The study found that moderate to intensive grazing in 2015 supported the highest number of plant species (14.3 per m²), though this decreased slightly with more intense grazing in 2016. Drier salt meadows hosted greater biodiversity (16.2 species/m²) compared to wetter areas (11.2 species/m²). Extensive cattle grazing maintained higher species diversity and weed cover, while intensive grazing increased grass dominance. These findings suggest that controlled grazing is a viable tool for conserving alkali grassland ecosystems in Hortobágy National Park.
Tourists' Motivation to Visit and Perception of Visitor Attractions Illustrated on the Example of Hortobágy National Park
Hortobágy National Park, a UNESCO Site and Biosphere Reserve, successfully balances tourism with biodiversity preservation and education. Research reveals that the majority of visitors are satisfied with the park's sustainable tourism offerings, which align with its core objectives. The study, using participant observation, questionnaires, and interviews, demonstrates how Hortobágy's tourism model supports sustainable development without compromising natural or cultural heritage protection. Findings highlight the importance of integrating tourists' ecological awareness into management strategies to maintain this equilibrium. This work is among the first to focus on Hortobágy, providing valuable insights for similar protected areas.
Effects of Land Use and Wildfires on the Habitat Selection of Great Bustard (Otis tardal.)—Implications for Species Conservation
A patch-burning management system could significantly enhance optimal habitat availability for great bustards (Otis tarda) by increasing the area burnt annually while maintaining a spatially mosaic structure. This finding stems from a 31-year study in Hortobágy National Park, East-Hungary, where researchers analyzed the effects of land use and wildfires on the spatial distribution of bustard lekking sites. The study, one of the largest datasets on this species, observed 10,118 individuals at 639 points, revealing that increased habitat diversity positively influenced female numbers while the area burnt in previous years was a critical predictor for total bird and male counts. The research suggests that strategic burning practices could serve as an effective conservation tool to support bustard populations.
Helminth Parasites of thePelophylax esculentusComplex (Anura: Ranidae) in Hortobágy National Park (Hungary)
A study conducted in Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, revealed significant discrepancies in helminth parasite species of the Pelophylax esculentus complex frogs compared to baseline inventories from 40 years ago. Researchers identified seven helminth species, including Rhabdias esculentarum as a new species for the Hungarian fauna and three additional species (Diplodiscus subclavatus, Pleurogenes claviger, and Pleurogenoides medians) as new to the park's helminthofauna. The study applied the Document, Assess, Monitoring, Act (DAMA) protocol, which integrates parasite information into large-scale biodiversity studies. While the reasons for the observed changes remain unclear, potential factors include climate change or anthropogenic impacts, highlighting the need for further investigation.
Multivariate climatic effects and declining avian populations in an alkaline grassland complex
A study on the Hortobágy National Park, Europe's largest unbroken alkaline steppe, reveals that avian population dynamics are significantly influenced by multivariate climatic factors. Researchers found that long-distance migratory bird species experiencing population growth in the region were affected by milder climatic conditions induced by the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and increasing Sahel rainfall trends. Short-distance migrants showed population growth in response to warming winters. However, several key conservation species exhibited negative population trends with unknown causes, highlighting the complexity of climate effects on avian populations. The study underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of these climatic influences to develop effective conservation strategies that avoid misattribution of success or failure.
Species Richness Responses to Structural or Compositional Habitat Diversity between and within Grassland Patches: A Multi-Taxon Approach
Habitat diversity positively influences species richness (SR) across multiple taxa, but each taxon responds to different aspects of habitat diversity. In Hortobágy National Park, Hungary, a study found that the wet-dry gradient (compositional habitat diversity at the between-patch scale) was primarily linked to SR in orthopterans, ground-dwelling arthropods, and all animals combined. Within patches, plant association richness (compositional habitat diversity) affected vegetation-dwelling arthropods, while vegetation height (structural habitat diversity) influenced ground-dwelling arthropods and birds. Patch area and management practices also played significant roles in SR for specific taxa. Despite these positive relationships, no consistent pattern emerged when pooling data across all taxa, highlighting the complexity of detecting general habitat diversity-SR relationships. The findings underscore the need for targeted management strategies to conserve biodiversity in complex landscapes.
Taxonomic composition and ploidy level among European water frogs (Anura: Ranidae:Pelophylax) in eastern Hungary
Research in Hortobágy National Park reveals that European water frogs (Pelophylax) exhibit complex taxonomic and genetic diversity, with all three members of the Pelophylax esculentus complex—Pelophylax ridibundus, Pelophylax lessonae, and their hybrid, Pelophylax esculentus—coexisting in certain wetlands. Notably, hybrid frogs produce diploid offspring, suggesting a breeding system where hybrids transmit the P. ridibundus genome clonally to mate with P. lessonae, thereby generating new hybrid generations. The study used serum albumin intron 1 (SAI-1) and microsatellite markers to analyze 63 specimens, uncovering syntopic occurrences of these taxa in some localities while others hosted only P. ridibundus and P. esculentus. Population genetic analyses further supported the hybrid's role in maintaining genomic diversity within these ecosystems.
Autumn crane migration and climate change in the Carpathian Basin
Research on autumn crane migration in the Carpathian Basin, particularly focusing on Hortobágy National Park, reveals significant advances in crane arrival dates linked to rising local temperatures. The study, conducted between 2006 and 2014, identified asymmetrical migration patterns with multiple waves of cranes using nearly 60 roost sites, predominantly large fishponds. Notably, cranes in Körös-Maros National Park began overwintering more frequently, favoring dry wetlands, while those in Kiskunság staged for shorter periods, often gathering in Szeged's Lake Fehér and alkali lakes. The Borsodi Mezőség region was found to host satellite flocks linked to Hortobágy. Additionally, the study detected a correlation between later autumn migration peaks and warmer North-Atlantic Oscillation winters, suggesting climate change influences on crane migration phenology.
Rainfall fluctuations and vegetation patterns in alkali grasslands – using self-organizing maps to visualise vegetation dynamics
Fluctuations in precipitation can rapidly alter plant species composition in alkali grasslands, particularly by increasing the cover of halophyte forbs due to salinisation or waterlogging stress. This study used Self-Organizing Map (SOM) neural networks to analyse vegetation dynamics across five stands of four alkali grassland types in Hortobágy National Park (eastern Hungary) from 2009 to 2011. SOM revealed that Puccinellia grasslands exhibited the most stable species composition, which is significant for conservation as this habitat supports numerous threatened halophyte species. The method also identified small-scale vegetation changes and provided detailed visualisation of short-term dynamics, suggesting its potential applicability in more species-rich habitats or landscapes.
Roost Site Selection of the Common Crane in Its Largest European Stop-Over Site
Common Cranes in Hortobágy National Park (Hungary) prefer only 44% of suitable wetlands for roosting, with site selection driven by conservation management, wetland type and size, and disturbance factors. Artificially flooded marshes and large fishponds, managed through controlled flooding or drainage aligned with migratory periods, are critical for supporting Crane staging. This study highlights the importance of species-specific wetland management to sustain mass migrations of wetland birds in one of Europe's largest stop-over sites.
Soil aggregate stablity, organic carbon and plant available nutrient contents (N,P) in soils of prehistoric mounds after abandonment of cultivation
Abandoned prehistoric mounds in Hungary's Hortobágy National Park show significant soil regeneration potential after decades of cultivation. Research reveals that these sites, once plowed for agriculture, exhibit improved soil aggregate stability and organic carbon content following spontaneous vegetation recovery. The study highlights a 15-20% increase in aggregate stability compared to cultivated soils, alongside elevated plant-available nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) levels—critical nutrients for ecosystem restoration. These findings suggest that legal protection of such mounds can accelerate soil rehabilitation, offering insights for conservation strategies in similar lowland landscapes.
The role of seed banks in sustaining alkali grassland biodiversity in the Hortobágy National Park, Hungary
Research in the Hortobágy National Park reveals that seed banks play a critical role in sustaining biodiversity in alkali grasslands, particularly under stress. The study found that while surface vegetation contained 39 species, seed banks harbored 50, with densities of 30,000-50,000 seeds per square meter—higher than typical dry grasslands. Contrary to expectations, the most stressed grassland types exhibited the highest density of halophyte seeds, though overall species richness and seed density were lowest in these environments. The study tested hypotheses about vertical positioning and environmental factors (moisture, salinity, pH, organic matter) influencing seed bank composition but found limited support for them. Most grassland species lacked significant seed banks, suggesting that local persistence is not guaranteed through this mechanism.
The Southernmost Sphagnum-dominated Mires on the Plains of Europe: Formation, Secondary Succession, Degradation, and Protection
Sphagnum-dominated mires, rare under continental climates, are younger than previously thought and highly sensitive to environmental changes. These unique ecosystems, found at the southernmost extent of their range on Europe's plains, have shown significant degradation over the past 50 years due to human and natural influences. Restoration efforts in Hortobágy National Park, including blocking drainage canals and artificial water replenishment, aim to revive these peat moss habitats. The study highlights the vulnerability of these diverse mires and the importance of conservation measures to support their propagation.
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