The “Kotove” Botanical Reserve is a unique natural area in the floodplain of the Vorskla River’s tributaries, where the almost pristine beauty of meadow and marsh ecosystems has been preserved. It is a space of silence, water, grass, and sky, allowing visitors to see Poltava Oblast as it was centuries ago.
The reserve’s main value lies in its biodiversity. Here, wet meadows, marshy areas, and riparian thickets come together, creating ideal conditions for rare plant and animal species. A true gem of the area is the relict giant horsetail—a species listed in Ukraine’s Red Book, which serves as a “living witness” to ancient geological eras and has survived since the time when the very face of the planet was changing.
“Kotove” is also an important area for birds. Here, you can observe the nesting and migration of various species, including gray cranes, storks, bitterns, and other wetland birds. In spring and summer, the sky above the meadows often comes alive with their flights, creating the feeling of a true natural theater.
The fauna is no less interesting: hares and ground squirrels can be found in this area, and in the quiet of the early morning hours, you can spot roe deer tracks. This underscores that the nature reserve is an important part of the region’s wildlife corridor.
The landscape of “Kotovyi” changes with the seasons: in spring, the meadows are covered with blooming wildflowers; in summer, they are filled with the scents of herbs; in autumn, they take on golden hues; and in winter, they transform into a quiet, snow-covered expanse.
This place is particularly valuable for ecotourism and nature observation. It is important to remember to treat the environment with care here: plants and animals are protected, so collecting flora and any interference with natural processes are strictly prohibited.
“Kotove” is a place where nature speaks softly but very persuasively. And everyone who comes here feels a true harmony with the living world.