Natura 2000 is a European ecological network covering areas important for the conservation of endangered species and habitat types of the European Union. It is the largest coordinated network of conservation areas in the world. Natura 2000 is also the largest network in which protected habitats are of great importance in all countries. Natura 2000 covers about 18% of the territory in the European Union countries and can be considered as an almost completed process in the EU. Natura 2000 extends to 36.67% of territory in Croatia, covering a significant part of the territory. Since Croatia is very diverse in terms of geography, relief and closely related climatic conditions, the protected areas are fragmented which contributes to the great biodiversity. Northwestern Croatia with its four counties: Koprivničko-križevačka, Varaždinska, Krapinsko-zagorska and Međimurska, is characterized by large meadows, grasslands and forest habitats within Natura 2000. These areas contribute greatly to the percentage of protected areas, especially for the protection of forests floodplain areas, and meadows along the rivers and their tributaries. Attention should be paid to the protection of endangered habitats and legislation so that they can be adapted to the conditions imposed by the European Union. Protected areas need to be mapped, introduced into the system and managed in a sustainable way.