Širvėnos Lake, reservoir in Lithuania
Širvėnos Lake is an artificial reservoir in northern Lithuania in Biržai District, roughly one kilometer north of Biržai town center. The lake has a winding shoreline with low, sometimes marshy banks surrounded by extensive reed beds, and contains several islands with the largest being Meilės Island.
The lake was created around 1575 by damming the Apaščia and Agluona rivers at their confluence to protect Biržai Castle and the town. It remains one of Lithuania's oldest known artificial lakes and has undergone repairs over the centuries while staying central to local life.
The area offers marked walking trails and swimming spots along the shores, with opportunities to explore by small boat. Fishing requires a permit and motorized watercraft are not permitted, so plan accordingly for your visit.
The lake is known for seasonal bird migrations, particularly in autumn when various migratory species rest along its shores. Several of these species appear on Lithuania's Red List, making it an important nature conservation site.
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