Wildlife of Ukraine

When one thinks of Ukraine, wildlife does not necessarily spring to mind as it would when thinking about a country such as South Africa. However, Ukraine has a number of protected areas and National Parks all aimed at preserving its natural splendors. Ukraine has quite a diverse landscape providing a number of habitats for a variety of species.Wildlife in Ukraine is certainly not scarce. Forest wildlife in Ukraineattracts many bird watchers keen to view fascinating bird species.

Ukraine can be divided into four flora zones which are Mediterranean, steppe, forest-steppe and forest. Beech trees are found throughout the western area of the forest zone. In the north of the forest region you will find pine, linden and oak trees whilst spruce is common in the northeast. The forest-steppe zone features grassland dotted with trees such as oak. In the steppe zone there are mostly grass plains which become more dry in the very south. Through the Mediterranean zone there are deciduous as well as evergreen grasses and shrubs.

Much of Ukraine's wildlife can be found in specific plant zones. The forest zone is home to red deer, elk, roe deer, squirrel, wild boar, foxes and wolves as well as brown bears and lynx. Bird life in the forested areas includes cranes, black cock, wood grouse, starling and blue titmouse. In the steppe zone you will discover ground squirrels, marmots, jerboas, hamsters and field mice. Bird watchers can see steppe eagles, quail, skylark and pink starling. Many bird species reside along the coastal areas and include cormorants, pelicans, wild ducks, martins, herons, sea gulls and bitterns. Within the seas are sturgeon, bullhead and mackerel. Ukraine's fresh waters provide a habitat for trout, perch, pike, bream, carp, zander, sazan and crucian.

When visiting Ukraine be sure to visit the country's protected areas. You will have a wonderful time spotting and photographing Ukraine's wildlife.

Theatres

Theatres Drama and Comedy Academic Ivan Franko Kiev Drama Theatre Kiev State Musical Theater Les Kurbas Theatre Plastic Drama Theater Taras Shevchenko Theatre Koleso

Whilst many people spend their leisure time watching television, attending films at cinemas and surfing the web, there has been a form of entertainment that has spanned the centuries and is still popular today – theatre. Ukraine is certainly no exception when it comes to this. Although somewhat suppressed in the Soviet era, theatre is indeed growing in Ukraine and offers tourists a marvelous evening of entertainment. Kiev is at the center of the theatre world in Ukraine. There are numerous venues for a variety of theatre performances scattered throughout the city. From intricate ballet and vibrant opera performances, to humorous comedy shows and alternative plays, there is something to suit everyone in Kiev. New theatre companies have come onto the scene and works are far more diversified than in the past. Unfortunately, financial restraints have hampered some development of theatre in Ukraine; however, directors are becoming more adept at obtaining sponsorships. Comedies are most popular with local audiences and dramas often take a back seat to more light-hearted entertainment. Theatre tickets in Ukraine are relatively inexpensive and are fantastic for those traveling on a tight budget. It may, in some respects, be struggling to draw large audiences in the electronic age, but the age-old art of theatre will never die and has quite a bright future ahead of it in Ukraine. In this section of Ukraine.com you can find out more about the many theatres in Ukraine, which will hopefully assist you when deciding where to go for a performance or two whilst staying in the country. For those who enjoy a taste of traditional theatre and are fans of opera or ballet, the T.G. Shevchenko National Opera and Ballet Theatre is the place to go. Established back in 1867, this prestigious venue has been host to some of the greatest operas and ballets in Ukraine. Another more traditional theatre, with a splash of modern drama, is the Ivan Franko National Academic Drama Theatre. Families will have a wonderful experience at any of the performances hosted at the Kyiv State Musical Theatre for Children & Youth. For something a little different, head off to the Kiev Drama Theatre on Podol where unique and fresh performances are on offer. Other theatres in Ukraine to look out for are Theater “Koleso”, Plastic Drama Theater, Ukrainian Small Drama Theater and Les Kurbas Theatre.

Restaurant guide

Take a break from exploring Ukraine's stunning attractions and fill up at one of the spectacular restaurants on offer. There is a wide variety of cuisine andrestaurants in Ukraine offering delicious meals, refreshing drinks and excellent service. Tempt your taste buds with the unique flavors of traditional Ukrainian food or try something international at an Italian, Chinese, American, Irish or other restaurant.

Kiev has probably got the widest selection of restaurants however excellent eateries can be found throughout the country, such as restaurants in Ukraine's Yalta. Besides Ukraine's restaurants there are a variety of pubs, bars, cafés and delicatessens offering sumptuous dishes. Whether you are looking for a quick inexpensive meal or something more extravagant, Ukraine's restaurants will conquer your hunger.

We invite you to check out our Business Directory for some restaurant suggestions.

Religious Sites

Religious Sites Alexander Nevsky Cathedral Church of the Tithes Kiev Pechersk Lavra St George Cathedral St Yura Church St. Andrew's Cathedral St. Nicholas Cathedral St. Sophia’s Cathedral St. Volodymyr’s Cathedral Uspensky Cave Monastery Uzhgorod Synagogue

Religion has always been an important feature in the lives of Ukrainians. For centuries religious traditions have featured in local culture and this is certainly evidenced by the many religious sites in Ukraine. Churches, cathedrals, monasteries, synagogues and other religious sites are popular attractions for tourists visiting the country. From architectural wonders to more humble places of worship, thereligious buildings in Ukraine give one a chance to ponder upon the country's history and culture through the ages. Kiev is considered by many to be the hub of religion in Ukraine and was even referred to as the New Jerusalem. Christianity was brought to this important Ukrainian city in 988 AD. Soon numerous churches were constructed throughout the city, creating a panorama of beautifully designed domes and walls. Many of these fine religious buildings were destroyed or damaged during wars and the atheistic Soviet era. Fortunately, efforts have been made to restore a number of these ornate structures in Kiev. Wooden churchesdominate the landscape in the Carpathian Mountains of Western Ukraine. The city of Lviv is home to a number of the more elaborate churches in the region. Jewish religious buildings are also found dotted around Ukraine. There are just under 50 Jewish sites including burial and birth places of renowned Hassidic rabbis. In this section of Ukraine.com you will become better acquainted with the most popular religious sites in the country. Be sure to visit attractions such as the St. George's Cathedral in Lviv, where you will discover a sacred relic of the Virgin Mary. Definitely not to be overlooked is the St. Sophia's Cathedral. This is Kiev's oldest church and is an architectural masterpiece. The Kyiv Pecherska Lavra Monastery is very interesting to visit. It was originally established by two monks and quickly became a very important center of the Orthodox religion. The Jewish site of Uzhgorod Synagogue dates back to 1910 and was designed in the popular Romantic style. It is truly fascinating to see. Other religious sites in Ukraine to visit are the Dominican Abbey, Radomyshl Synagogue, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Yalta, the Church of the Tithes and St. Volodymyr's Cathedral.

Places of Interest

Places of Interest Andriyivsky Uzviz Arkadia Botanical Gardens Charax Duke Richelieu Monument Golden Gate of Kiev Kiev Mohyla Academy Kiev Zoo Leonid Utesov Monument Lychakivskiy Cemetery Nikitsky Botanical Garden Odessa Catacombs Odessa Privoz Market Potemkin Steps Sofiyivsky Park Struve Geodetic Arc Swallows Nest Tyoschin Most Vidubitsky Monastery

A fascinating history, rich culture and exquisite natural heritage, Ukraine has much to offer its visitors. There are many sights in Ukraine to include on your holiday itinerary including monuments, museums, churches, palaces, cemeteries, mountains, rivers, beaches and beautiful landscapes. It is possible to see numerous attractions in Ukraine in one day, particularly in the cities where they are often within walking distance. Check out these attractions in Kyiv, Lviv and Odessa. Kyiv Sights in Kyiv are truly bountiful. One of the most impressive is the Kyiv Pecherska Lavra Monastery beautifully situated on a hill beside Dnipro River. The monastery was established back in 1051 A.D. and during the centuries since then it has grown, incorporating architectural styles such as Ukrainian Baroque, Classical and Byzantine. Still in use, this fascinating structure is made up of churches, towers and subterranean tunnels. Within the grounds you can also visit the Museum of Historical Treasures and Jewelry, Museum of Miniatures and Museum of Ukrainian Decorative and Applied Art. St Sophia Cathedral is the oldest church in Ukraine and was constructed in 1037. It was an important center for ancient Kyivite worship and a political hub in Kyivan-Rus. The complex consists of two churches, a school, residence and bell-tower. Mariyinsky Palacewas built during 1750 and was previously one of the Tsar family residences. It is now used for official presidential functions. Kyiv Mohyla Academy of 1615 was Eastern Europe's first higher education institution. Stroll along the ancient street of Adriyivsky Uzvis which is today, home to numerous art galleries, cafés and exhibits. Lviv When visiting Lviv make a point of going to see the Lychakivskiy Cemetery dating back to 1787. Many well-known Ukrainians have been buried here. Ornate tomb-stones guard the graves of Lviv's past residents. It was named a historical monument in 1975 and damaged areas have been restored. Also make your way through the Old Town where you will discover the Ploscha Rynock Market Square, cathedrals, St. Yura Church, Boim Chapel and Dominican Abbey. Odessa Odessa is ideal for walking. Begin at the Potemkin Steps where you can enjoy a spectacular view of the bay. From there you can amble along Primoskjj Boulevard were you will see monuments related to the Crimean war. Westward you will arrive at the governor's palace. Beside the palace you will discover the Tyoschin Most, a stunning foot bridge across the gorge. Beneath Odessa lies over 400km of catacombs, which through the centuries have been used by smugglers, partisans, and resistance fighters. Bus tours are offered to this interesting attraction in Ukraine. Be sure to check out the Odess Privoz, one of the world's largest farmers' markets. Shopaholics will find this a dream. From foodstuffs to clothing, from construction materials to consumer goods, this market has it all. These are just a few of the sights in Ukraine. Wherever you find yourself in this vast country, there are attractions to keep your mind and your feet busy. For more information on Ukraine's natural attractions visit these pages on this website: “National Parks”, “Mountains”, “Wildlife” and “Ecotourism”.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Ukraine varies from place to place. Generally speaking, you will find more to see and do in the bigger cities than you will in small towns. Ukrainians are open-minded and enjoy trying new things. As a result, you will find a variety of discos, nightclubs, bars and restaurants, which all sport their own unique flavor of entertainment. To get an idea of which are the popular hot-spots you can ask the locals - or dive right in and visit a variety of venues - variety is, after all, said to be the spice of life.

In an attempt to make your choices easier, we have listed a number of Ukrainian bars, pubs and clubs that can be found in Kiev. So check out our Business Directory for some ideas on where to start - then enjoy!

National parks

National parks Askaniya-Nova Biosphere Reserve Cape Martyan Reserve Cheremskyi Nature Reserve Chornomors'kyi Biosphere Reserve Desnyano-Starogutskyi National Park Kanivs’kyi Reserve Karadag Reserve Karpatskyi Biosphere Karpatskyi National Podil’ski Tovtry National Park Polis’kyi Reserve Roztochchya Reserve Shats’kyi National Park Steppe Reserve Yalta Mountain Forest Reserve Yovorivskyi

Ukraine has a great diversity of natural landscapes and wildlife. For this reason areas of Ukraine have been declared protected areas, nature reserves and National parks. National Parks in Ukraine are vital for preserving large natural areas and provide the country with great opportunities to develop ecotourism. We discuss the protected areas andNational Parks of Ukraine under the headings: Mixed Forest area; Forest-Steppe area; Steppe area; Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains and Crimean Mountains. Mixed Forest Shatskyi National Park – This Ukrainian National Park was created in 1983. It was declared a Biosphere Reserve in the year 2002. Within the borders of the park there are 23 lakes, the largest is Svityaz (deepest and biggest in Ukraine). Circling the lakes are pine forests, home to 61 IUCN Red List species both of fauna and flora. Poliskyi Reserve – Located in Zhytomyr, the reserve was established in 1968, chiefly for research purposes. Swamps are an important habitat here and make up 22% of the park. Cheremskyi Nature Reserve – Established in the year 2001, the purpose of the reserve is to protect and study special ecosystems as well as for sustainable development. Desnyano-Starogutskyi National Park – Founded in 1999 and forms part of an Ukrainian-Russian biosphere reserve. 700 vascular plant species grow here. Forest-Steppe Yovorivskyi National Park – Created in 1998, much of the land is covered by oak, pine-oak, alder and hornbeam-oak forests. Also within the boundaries of the park are several historical monuments, a monastery and churches. National Park Podilski Tovtry – Founded in 1996 and is known for its amazing geological formations. Forests, grasslands and meadows define the landscape. Approximately 1 700 plant species can be found in the Park. Mineral springs as well as historical andcultural monuments attract many tourists. Kanivskyi Reserve – Established in 1968, it is situated on the bank of the Dnieper River. The reserve is considered to have great geological and archaeological significance. Roztochchya Reserve – Protected from 1984, the reserve consists of pine, oak, ash and beech forests leading to swamps with willows and birches. This region is an important watershed for rivers leading to the Baltic Sea and Black Sea. Steppe Askaniya-Nova Biosphere Reserve – Established way back in the 19th century this is the oldest protected area in Ukraine. It was declared UNESCO biosphere reserve in 1984. The park guards Europe's only Festuca-Stipa grassland community. Large numbers of animal species can be seen throughout the reserve. Ukrainian Steppe Reserve – Created in 1961, this reserve is actually made up of four reserves, namely Khomutivsky Steppe Reserve, Mykhailivska Tsilyna Reserve, Kamyani Mogyly Reserve and Melova Flora Reserve. Chornomorskyi Biosphere Reserve – Organized in 1927, is vital for the protection of migrating and nesting birds. Some 300 species of birds reside in the reserve. It also plays a significant role in education and scientific studies. Ukrainian Carpathian Mountains Karpatskyi Biosphere Reserve – Founded in 1968, the reserve encompasses five massifs. They are: Ugolsko-Shyrokoluzhansky massif, Marmarosk massif, Chronogir massif, Svidovets massif and Khust massif. Karpatskyi National Park – Created in 1980 it takes in Central Europe forest, alpine and sub-alpine ecosystems. This park is ideal for tourists as it incorporates health resorts, lodges, monuments, sporting facilities and archaeological sites. Crimean Mountains Yalta Mountain Forest Reserve – Founded in 1973 the forest extends along the coast of the Black sea. Protected forests include Crimean pine, juniper, beech, oak and hornbeam. Geological features to see are caves, grottoes, rocks, craters and waterfalls. Karadag Reserve – Created in 1979, the reserve protects Europe's only Jurassic period rocky shoreline massif. Formations in the reserve come from extinct volcanoes. Minerals found in the reserve include crystal, cornelian, jasper, amethyst, agate and opal. Cape Martyan Reserve – Established in 1993 near Yalta, the reserve protects the coastal aquatic ecosystem. Mediterranean vegetation such as fir,and oak grow here.