Girutiskis bog (Girutiakio pelke). 15/11/11; Vilnius; 1,402 ha; 55°11'52"N 25°51'21"E. Strict Nature Reserve, Regional Park, Natura 2000. A complex of raised bogs, rich fens and transitional mires with acidic and oxygen-poor lakes and surrounding pine forests interspersed with spruce and birch trees. Numerous habitat types as well as plant and animal species (mammals, fish, insects, amphibians, and molluscs) are listed under the EU Habitats Directive and protected nationally, and a large number of breeding and non-breeding bird species protected in Europe and Lithuania occur within the site. The site is important as a source of groundwater and the swamp has a significant replenishing function. Peat accumulation in bogs also facilitates the binding of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The site is being used for research, environmental education and limited educational tourism; there is a visitor centre and an exposition at the Labanoras Regional Park directorate. Habitat overgrowth with bushes and trees, and invasive species, pose the main problems. An approved nature management plan exists. Ramsar Site number: 1993. Most recent RIS information: 2011.