By education a chemist, but at heart and soul an ornithologist, Dr. Kmecl followed his life’s passion – birds. After a master’s degree in chemistry he shifted his scientific path to biology and in it also earned his PhD. His dedication, precision and exceptional studiousness intertwined with a rare warmth and calmness that he brought to all relationships and work environments. He was a man who knew how to listen and connect – colleagues will remember him as a pleasant, cheerful man who knew how to awaken the best in people.
Dr. Kmecl’s ornithological path began right at Lake Cerknica, to which he was happy to repeatedly return. In the early 1990s he and his wife carried out the first quantitative study of the birds of this area, a census of waterbirds and raptors between 1991 and 1992. This pioneering approach to counting and researching birds at Lake Cerknica laid the foundations for later studies and conservation measures.
As a long-time coordinator of research for the Slovenian index of farmland birds, since 2008 he led the development of monitoring and numerous extensive studies that today significantly guide agricultural policy from the perspective of nature conservation. His scientific work did not stay within academic boundaries – it was a tool for change in the space where birds find their home and where humans also coexist with nature.
He participated in all key projects of the Notranjska Park – including LIFE Kosec, Kras.Re.Vita, LIFE Stržen, LIFE Tršca and LIFE for Seeds – and contributed to the protection and understanding of precious habitats and species. Among his significant achievements is also leading the first regional winter ornithological atlas in Slovenia – the Winter Ornithological Atlas of the Triglav National Park.
A special place in his heart has always been Lake Cerknica. Within the LIFE Stržen project, in 2018 he carried out the first quantitative study of nesting birds on the lake, which further enriched knowledge about this extraordinary natural area.
The work of Dr. Primož Kmecl was foundational for the development of modern Slovenian ornithology. His research, knowledge, and dedication will inspire new generations of ornithologists for a long time to come. He was more than a scientist – he was a bridge between humans and nature, between facts and wonder at the flight of a bird. His legacy remains alive in the songs of birds that we will hear above Lake Cerknica, and in the hearts of all who he showed the way.
Thank you, Primož.
The implementation of extensive nature conservation projects exceeds the financial capacity of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing by the European Union.
The implementation of large-scale conservation projects exceeds the financial capabilities of the local community, therefore Notranjska Park regularly applies for projects with the possibility of co-financing from the European Union.
