The "Sysloviště" – a meadow full of friendly and charming ground squirrels – lies in the very heart of the Muránska Plateau, beneath Muráň Castle, near the village of Muráň. This huge colony of ground squirrels is the largest in Slovakia. Originally very shy animals, the squirrels here are no longer afraid to come right up to people and take treats directly from their hands. Some can even be gently petted. They get along very well with the local donkeys, who live among them and also enjoy munching on carrots.
The squirrels are most active on sunny days, from dawn till dusk, typically from early spring (around March/April) until autumn (around September/October). They may occasionally come out of their burrows even when it’s partly cloudy or lightly raining, but it’s best not to rely on that and plan your visit for sunny weather.
On the meadow, you’ll also find an educational information board about the animals, and a large enclosure that serves mainly as a “protected zone” for the squirrels and a run for the donkeys. Visitors are not allowed to enter the enclosure, but the animals enjoy human company and often walk along the fence. The meadow is also equipped with several wooden benches, trash bins, and a snack stand offering refreshments and souvenirs.