Cheile Doftanei
A Photographic Survey and a New Orchid Hybrid Record for Romania
Cheile Doftanei is situated within the Baiului Mountains in the southern Carpathians, Romania. The area is designated as a Site of Community Importance (SCI) under the Natura 2000 network due to its unique biodiversity, including several priority habitats and species listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC). This region spans approximately 2,622 hectares and is characterized by a diverse range of ecosystems, from beech forests to alpine meadows and rocky slopes.
Landscape Photography
The diverse terrain of Cheile Doftanei offers numerous opportunities for landscape photography. From its characteristic gorges to its flowing rivers and rolling hills, the area presents different perspectives throughout the seasons.
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A Rich Botanical Heritage
Over the past four years of regular visits from Bucharest, I have documented 127 plant species in Cheile Doftanei through photography. The area features diverse beech forests, including both Luzulo-Fagetum and Asperulo-Fagetum types, which create distinct habitats for various plant species. In 2022, I discovered a new orchid hybrid for Romania, Ophrys ×minuticauda Duffort, which was subsequently published in a scientific article in 2023.
Wildlife and Natural Diversity
The ecosystem of Cheile Doftanei supports a diverse range of wildlife. During my visits, I've photographed various insects, particularly butterflies, as well as several notable species including the grass snake (Natrix natrix), the yellow-bellied toad (Bombina variegata), and the rare longhorn beetle (Dorcadion murrayi).
The area is also home to several mammals. Brown bears (Ursus arctos), Northern white-breasted hedgehogs (Erinaceus roumanicus), and deer roam through the territory. These mammals are typically more active during dawn and dusk, though encounters should always be treated with appropriate caution and respect.
Personal Experience
Having spent more than four years documenting the natural heritage of Cheile Doftanei, I've observed how the area changes through the seasons and continues to reveal new aspects of its biodiversity. The accessibility from Bucharest has allowed me to conduct regular visits, resulting in a comprehensive photographic record of the area's flora and fauna.
For nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and botanists, Cheile Doftanei provides excellent opportunities for observation and documentation. Whether you're interested in rare plant species, wildlife photography, or simply enjoying the natural environment, the area offers diverse experiences throughout the year.
A list of the flora I’ve photographed in Cheile Doftanei. Use the search feature on the website to find specific photos.