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In the square in front of the railway station in Jaworzno-Szczakowa, there stands a statue of a "hamster-railwayman," alluding to the railway traditions of Szczakowa. The figurine also references the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus) protection program conducted in Jaworzno. This is one of the most endangered mammal species in Poland. In 2016, the "European Hamster" ecological utility area was created here, covering about 270 hectares, encompassing mainly fields in the regions of Byczyna, Wilkoszyn, and Grodzisko. The project involves population monitoring, the adaptation of individuals from breeding, cooperation with farmers, and educational activities. In 2025, about 35 new hamsters were released to strengthen the local population. The species requires a mosaic landscape, so farmers included in the program use gentler cultivation methods, limit pesticides, and do not plow during the breeding season. protecting the hamster is also significant for other species, as it acts as an umbrella species. The city promotes it as a symbol of Jaworzno – a "hamster trail" with figurines in public spaces has been created, and residents are encouraged to observe and support conservation efforts.
