Rivers provide a natural habitat for a diverse array of animals and plants, with over 40% of species having some form of connection to these ecosystems. This remarkable diversity enhances the resilience of these natural systems to various environmental factors and changes. It’s quite easy to spot insects, amphibians, and small birds near the river. Olha Velychkanych, an eco-expert from IRCEF, organized an excursion for students of the PADIUN clubs to explore the biodiversity of the Uzh River. As the children traveled along the Pravoslavna embankment, they observed the animal world through binoculars. Even at a relatively short distance, the young birdwatchers were able to spot swans, common mallards (also known as wild ducks), black-headed gulls, white herons, and crows. During their adventure, the young researchers had the opportunity to study various types of bird dimorphism. For instance, they noticed significant reproductive dimorphism in ducks, which serves a protective purpose. When the youngsters were asked to count the number of men and females in a flock, they discovered that the females outnumbered the males.
The children also observed age-related dimorphism in mute swans gracefully swimming near the pedestrian bridge, which also has protective value, similar to sexual dimorphism. They counted 8 adult swans and 3 young ones. The teacher drew the children’s attention to invasive plant species growing along the riverbank, such as Sosnowsky’s hogweed and Japanese knotweed. These invasive species pose a significant threat to the flora by competing with native plants for ecological niches and causing their decline. Among these invasive plants, the far Japanese knotweed, which blooms in September, stands out as one of the most dangerous. Its robust rhizomes can displace other plant species that stabilize riverbanks, leading to soil erosion and even damaging asphalt and building foundations. Hogweed is also perilous due to its toxic effects on the skin, causing chemical burns.
In summary of the tour, the participants compiled a set of actions aimed at preserving and enriching the fauna and flora of our river. To ensure the health and richness of our rivers and to meet our needs, let’s join hands in protecting and restoring their extraordinary diversity!
The event was held within the framework of cooperation between the Interreligious and Civil Environmental Forum of Eastern Europe (IRCEF) headed by Olexander Bokotey) and the German Nature Conservation Union (NABU Bundesverband, NABU International), project coordinators Ivan Tymofeiev (NABU), and Nataliya Kulya (IRCEF).
Olha Velychkanych,
Head of the Biology Department, Transcarpathian Regional Center for Children and Youth Creativity ” PADIUN”
