Night cycling in the forest harmful to forest animals

In Slovenia, a trend is spreading among cyclists that has negative consequences for forest animals. It involves night cycling in the forest. The light from powerful lights and noise at night disrupt their natural rhythm, as they need peace precisely at night for feeding or rest. Experts therefore strongly advise against this type of cycling.

Due to the fast pace of life, numerous afternoon obligations, and in the cooler part of the year also shorter daylight hours, many people seek opportunities for nighttime recreation in nature, including night cycling in the forest. The Slovenia Forest Service, as well as the Forestry and Hunting Inspection, discourage such recreation, as it grossly interferes with the habitat of forest animals. Such disturbances in the forest, including strong lighting, can severely disrupt the animals' natural rhythm, unnecessarily agitate them, and cause stress, which can negatively affect their health. At night, many animals feed, while others use it for rest and relaxation. Additionally, in the winter part of the year, many game species are already pregnant, and predators are in the mating season, making this period particularly sensitive.

Humans have already greatly narrowed the living space of forest animals and hindered their movement between areas with their influences and interventions, such as road and settlement construction. Therefore, it is right not to disturb them at least at night. There are many recreation options, so choose those that have the least impact on the forest and wildlife. Better avoid night rides and respect nature and its inhabitants.

Source: https://www.gozd-les.com/novice/2025/nocno-kolesarjenje-po-gozdu-skodljivo-gozdne-zivali