Kuchugury, Kakhovka reservoire, ornithological reserve in Zaporizhia Oblast, Ukraine
Kuchugury is a group of 13 islands with sand dunes in the Kakhovka reservoir in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The islands sit about 10 to 12 kilometers from the nearby coast and are surrounded by shallow waters lined with reeds and natural vegetation.
Kuchugury has been designated a bird sanctuary since 1974, covering about 4 square kilometers. The sandy terrain of the islands historically supplied building materials such as sand used in the construction of the city of Enerhodar.
The name Kuchugury reflects the local landscape shaped by sand dunes and water. Visitors can observe how the quiet environment draws people interested in nature, with birdwatchers spending hours by the shores and local communities maintaining traditional practices like fishing in these waters.
Access to the islands is limited and typically requires a boat or an organized tour with local guides. The best time to visit is during migration seasons in spring and fall, when thousands of waterfowl pass through the islands.
The sand dunes of Kuchugury contain the largest area of the rare plant Centaurea konkae, found only in this location. These special dunes create a distinctive landscape with their gentle rolling form that draws birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
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