Askania Nova Reserve in Ukraine: Triumph of the Nature
Biosphere Askania Nova Reserve is the world famous national park of Ukraine, one of Europe's Corner fescue-feather grass steppes, which was never touched by a plow. It is also known as Ascania Nova and Askania Nowa.
This unique zoo animals and birds collected from almost all countries of the world. In Askania-Nova wild animals found in the wild or in half of force. Most of the territory is beautiful botanical park with numerous artificial lakes and ponds, which grow trees and shrubs of all climatic zones of the earth. The unique nature of the island to the land of ancient Tavria!
Askania Nova Ukraine differ from other reserves in the fact that its territory in addition to local, indigenous, steppe species of wildlife, well accustomed many rare animals brought from Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia and America. Here, in large pens in the zoo area of 30 square miles are in the semi-free conditions zebra and antelope, bison and water buffalo, deer and wild horses - more than 1,000 animals of 40 and hybrid forms.
Askania Nova Nature Reserve: history of foundation
This luxurious oasis was created by Baron Friedrich Pfalz-Fein, the ancestor of German colonists who settled the southern Ukrainian steppes and owned land, which is Askania Nova. At the end of the XIX century Pfalz-Fein began to create the first cages for birds and animals.
Child's delight of Frederick became a matter of his life, his efforts had created a zoo and beautiful arboretum. But the most outstanding thing Pfalz-Fein was to create a unique nature reserve on the site fescue-grass steppe.
Flora and fauna of Askania Nova Reserve
Askania Nova is considered the oldest steppe world biosphere reserve and the largest among European steppe protected areas. In these steppe ecosystems are more than 500 species of higher plants and more than 3 thousand species.
69 species of animals that live in Askania listed in the Red Book of Ukraine, 295 - protected by the Berne Convention, 104 - Bonn Convention, and 12 - are listed in the European Red List. In the vastness of Askania Nova live zebras, South American camels, Indian and African antelope, deer, llamas, Shetland ponies, the Przewalski horse, American bison, buffalo kafrski, saiga antelope and many other animals. They are not only representatives of different continents, but different climatic zones. However, they were able to perfectly adapt to the Ukrainian steppe.
Populations of animals listed in the Red Book in Askania constantly growing and most famous zoo in the world are lining up to fill their collections.
In the reserve continue to grow a lot of plants that have disappeared over the last two centuries in the vast spaces of the former steppes of Eurasia.
Impress for its diversity of birds nesting in the territory Askania Nova or stop here during seasonal migrations: white and black swans, flamingos, cranes, bustards, little bustards, gray partridge, steppe eagle. In enclosures living African ostrich, emu, rhea, bustards, pheasants, peacocks, steppe eagles, crowned cranes, parrots.
During the warm season prairie grass species colorful carousel change the appearance of the landscape. Step become painted in emerald green, blue, purple, yellow, black and other colors. Carpets with natural colors change eache other mid-June, and then flows into the steppe rest break until September. Unforgettably beautiful desert and "gold" fall is in October.
Special attention is given arboretum of Askania Nova, created in the late nineteenth century, the area of 200 hectares. The park is divided according to a strict plan and significantly different from the wild steppe zone. Throughout the complex irrigation system is laid, every tree nourishes artesian water. The park has about 150 species of trees and shrubs, including holly maple, Crimean pine, pyramidal and column-oak, juniper, elm, pine, ash, acacia, weeping willows. In the center of the composition of the park there is a beautiful pond where ducks, swans and other waterfowl swim.
Askania Nova Photos Gallery
”FAQ
What is the history behind the creation of Askania Nova Reserve?
The Askania Nova Reserve in Ukraine has a fascinating history. It was established in 1898 by a German nobleman named Friedrich Falz-Fein. He bought a large area of land in southern Ukraine and began to transform it into a wildlife sanctuary. Falz-Fein was interested in preserving and studying the local fauna, which included steppe bison, Przewalski's horses, and many species of migratory birds. Over time, the reserve expanded to include more than 33,000 hectares of steppe grasslands, making it one of the largest reserves in Europe.
During World War I and the subsequent Soviet period, the reserve suffered a great deal of damage and neglect. However, in the 1920s and 30s, the Soviet government invested in the reserve, rebuilding much of the infrastructure and expanding the breeding programs for the animals. Today, the Askania Nova Reserve is a popular destination for tourists and scientists alike, providing a rare opportunity to see endangered animals in their natural habitat and learn about the unique ecosystem of the Ukrainian steppe.
What are the different types of flora and fauna found in Askania Nova Reserve?
Askania Nova Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The reserve boasts more than 500 species of plants, 300 species of birds, and 45 species of mammals. Some of the plant species found here include feather grass, fescue, wormwood, and bluegrass. The reserve is also known for its large herds of wild animals such as Przewalski's horses, deer, antelopes, bison, and zebras. Additionally, the reserve is home to many rare and endangered species, such as the saiga antelope, which is a critically endangered species that is only found in a few locations in the world. The reserve is a sanctuary for these animals and provides them with a protected habitat to thrive in.
What activities can tourists do in Askania Nova Reserve?
Askania Nova Reserve offers various activities for tourists to experience the natural beauty of the reserve. Some of the popular activities include guided walking tours, horseback riding, cycling, and safari tours. During the guided walking tours, tourists can explore the unique flora and fauna of the reserve, including the rare Przewalski's horses, which are now only found in captivity or in the wild in a few places. Horseback riding is also a popular way to explore the reserve and experience the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Cycling tours are another option for tourists to explore the reserve on two wheels. Additionally, visitors can enjoy safari tours, which provide a unique opportunity to see the wildlife of the reserve up close. The reserve also offers accommodation for tourists who want to spend more time exploring the reserve.
Three important points about activities in Askania Nova Reserve:
Askania Nova Reserve offers guided walking tours, horseback riding, cycling, and safari tours.
Tourists can explore the unique flora and fauna of the reserve during the tours.
The reserve offers accommodation for tourists who want to spend more time exploring the reserve.
How does Askania Nova Reserve contribute to nature conservation in Ukraine?
Askania Nova Reserve is one of the most important nature conservation areas in Ukraine. Its contribution to nature conservation is multifaceted. Firstly, the reserve preserves a unique and diverse ecosystem, including rare and endangered species. The reserve provides a natural habitat for numerous animal species such as wild horses, antelopes, and exotic birds. Additionally, Askania Nova Reserve functions as a scientific research center, facilitating studies and monitoring of the biodiversity of the area. Furthermore, the reserve plays an important role in educating visitors on the importance of preserving natural habitats and biodiversity. Through tours, exhibitions, and educational programs, the reserve promotes environmental awareness and encourages visitors to adopt environmentally friendly behavior. Overall, Askania Nova Reserve is an invaluable resource for Ukraine and serves as an important model for nature conservation.
