Letobiel

Letobiel is a Slovak civic association based in Žilina, working with partners in Slovakia and the Czech Republic to protect biodiversity and manage important natural areas. Its work focuses on conserving threatened native species and the habitats they depend on, including the white crocus (Crocus albiflorus) and the Apollo butterfly (Parnassius apollo). Through cross-border projects, the association supports field surveys, mapping and monitoring of species and their locations, habitat restoration, and protective measures such as guarding vulnerable sites during sensitive periods.

Its practical conservation work includes removing encroaching trees, shrubs and weeds from rocky habitats, arranging appropriate meadow management, and carrying away cut vegetation. Letobiel also cooperates with landowners and specialists, and shares project findings through workshops, informational materials and educational brochures. The association’s activities include projects supported through European cross-border cooperation programmes, including work in the Strážovské vrchy Protected Landscape Area and Czech localities where white crocus occurs.

Its broader purpose is to help preserve valuable plant and animal species in landscapes affected by abandonment and declining traditional management