For preserving biological diversity and for ensuring the favorable status of threatened species and habitats, 18,7% of Estonia's land area and 26% of the water area has been taken under protection.

As of December 31, 2017, Estonia had a total of 3,864 protected natural objects including:

• 5 national parks;
• 165 nature reserves;
• 150 landscape protection areas (nature parks);
• 523 parks and stands;
• 328 limited-conservation areas;
• 1,480 species’ protection sites;
• 1,114 individual protected natural objects;
• 23 natural objects protected at the local government level;
• 71 protected areas with old protection regulation.

The western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus). Photo by Jaanus Tanilsoo