Shatsky National Park

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The Shatsky National Park, located in northwestern Ukraine, is a stunning protected area known for its numerous lakes, dense forests, and wetland ecosystems. The park is home to the famous Shatsk Lakes, including Lake Svityaz, the deepest and largest natural lake in Ukraine. This diverse landscape supports a wide range of wildlife, including rare and migratory species. Below are some of the more popular species that inhabit Shatsky National Park.

European Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
A graceful and agile herbivore, the European roe deer is commonly found grazing in the park’s meadows and forest clearings, feeding on grass, shrubs, and tree shoots.

Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)
A semi-aquatic predator, the Eurasian otter thrives in the park’s rivers and lakes, where it hunts fish, amphibians, and crustaceans.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
A highly adaptable species, the wild boar roams the park’s forests and wetlands, foraging for roots, nuts, and small invertebrates.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A stealthy predator, the Eurasian lynx is rarely seen but plays a key role in controlling deer and hare populations in the park’s dense woodlands.

European Beaver (Castor fiber)
An important ecosystem engineer, the European beaver constructs dams and lodges along the park’s rivers, creating wetland habitats for many other species.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
A cunning and opportunistic predator, the red fox thrives in the park’s diverse habitats, hunting small mammals, birds, and insects.

European Badger (Meles meles)
A nocturnal burrowing mammal, the European badger digs extensive tunnel systems and feeds on earthworms, insects, and small rodents.

Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra)
A striking amphibian with black and yellow markings, the fire salamander inhabits the park’s damp forests, feeding on insects and small invertebrates.

Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
A non-venomous snake commonly found in the park’s wetlands, the grass snake is an excellent swimmer and preys on amphibians and small fish.

Pond Turtle (Emys orbicularis)
A rare and protected reptile, the European pond turtle is found in the park’s lakes and slow-moving rivers, where it feeds on fish, amphibians, and insects.

Birds

The Shatsky National Park is a crucial habitat for both resident and migratory bird species, especially waterfowl. The park’s vast lakes, marshes, and forests provide nesting and feeding grounds for many rare and beautiful birds. Here are some of the most iconic bird species found in the park.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
A dominant bird of prey in the region, the white-tailed eagle is often seen soaring above the park’s lakes, hunting fish and waterfowl.

Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
A rare and elusive species, the black stork nests in the park’s remote woodlands and feeds on fish, amphibians, and small invertebrates.

Common Crane (Grus grus)
A majestic bird, the common crane breeds in the park’s wetlands and performs elaborate courtship dances in spring.

Great Egret (Ardea alba)
A striking white wading bird, the great egret is often seen along the shores of the park’s lakes, hunting for fish, amphibians, and insects.

Western Marsh Harrier (Circus aeruginosus)
A skilled hunter of wetland areas, the marsh harrier glides over reeds and marshes in search of fish, small mammals, and birds.

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
A brilliantly colored bird, the common kingfisher is often seen perched near the park’s waterways, diving into the water to catch small fish.

Eurasian Coot (Fulica atra)
A common waterbird, the Eurasian coot is frequently seen paddling across the park’s lakes, feeding on aquatic plants and small invertebrates.

Great Crested Grebe (Podiceps cristatus)
One of the most beautiful waterbirds in the park, the great crested grebe is known for its elaborate courtship displays and graceful swimming.

Whooper Swan (Cygnus cygnus)
A large and elegant waterfowl species, the whooper swan breeds in the park’s wetlands and shallow lakes, feeding on aquatic vegetation.

Eurasian Hoopoe (Upupa epops)
A distinctive bird with a striking crest and a unique call, the Eurasian hoopoe forages for insects in the park’s meadows and grasslands.

Shatsky National Park remains one of Ukraine’s most important nature reserves, preserving its rich biodiversity and offering a sanctuary for both resident and migratory species while protecting the stunning beauty of the Shatsk Lakes.