Desna-Starogutsky National Nature Park, National nature park in Sumy Oblast, Ukraine
Desna-Starogutsky National Nature Park is a protected area spanning wetlands, mixed forests, and river floodplains in eastern Ukraine. The park divides into two distinct sections: the Desna River floodplains and a portion of Bryansk forest located near the Russian border.
The park was created in 1999 as Ukraine worked to protect its natural spaces following the Soviet period. This establishment reflected a new commitment to conservation in the newly independent nation.
Local communities living here maintain a relationship with the land based on fishing and forestry that balances their needs with nature. You can see how these practices shape daily life and how people move through the forests and along the water without disturbing the rhythm of wildlife.
The park offers heated cabins, boat rentals, and camping areas for visitors to explore the landscape. A marked trail guides you through the river floodplain and reveals the natural terraces formed by the water over time.
The park is home to roughly 134 bird species that breed within its boundaries, drawing birdwatchers from many places. This abundance of birds reveals how important the river valley is as a refuge and nesting ground for wildlife.
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