Raikivshchyna

By Raikivshchyna a small river flows slowly through reeds and shrubs toward the wider water body. The banks are low and in places overgrown with willows, and quiet channels and shallow bays hide among the bushes. This is a calm point on the eastern side of the lake, where the river valley is still felt close to the great water.

In spring reed warblers sing in the reeds, gulls circle over the shallows, and ducks and wading birds hold by the water. Grey herons stand in the shallows, and terns fly over the channels. In autumn, when the water level falls, migrant birds pause here before continuing south.

Practical tips

• Best in spring and autumn, when migrants pause on the shallows.
• Parts of the bank are overgrown. Open stretches by the water give the best views.
• Move slowly and listen to the scrub. Small birds often reveal themselves by voice.

Best season: April–May and August–October