Scientists and Supporters from Germany Visit the Foundation's Protected Area
In May 2024, we introduced the biodiversity of the Paramelis "island" to potential sponsors from Germany. Later, in August, we invited five scientists to our protected area for a week to further explore the "island" and its rare species.
The Donors' Tour lasted three days and covered areas managed by the Foundation. A total of 20 nature conservation supporters from Germany participated in the tour. During these special hikes, the participants explored the forests, marshes, and meadows of the Paramelis "island," learned about its bird, animal, and plant species, assessed the Foundation's conservation efforts, and were invited to support the Foundation with financial contributions.
Meanwhile, in August, expert naturalists from Germany spent a week on the Paramelis "island." A team of five scientists conducted an in-depth study of Paramelis and its surroundings, prepared a detailed overview of the area's natural treasures, and provided recommendations for conservation.
The scientists highlighted the biodiversity of the Katra River Valley, home to early marsh-orchids (Dactylorhiza incarnata), marsh helleborines (Epipactis palustris), bog adder's-mouth orchids (Hammarbya paludosa), pod grass (Scheuchzeria palustris), flatleaf bladderworts (Utricularia intermedia), and lesser bladderworts (Utricularia minor).
One particularly exciting discovery was the leathery grapefern (Botrychium multifidum). According to the researchers, this plant is extremely rare in Germany and Central Europe. To protect its habitat in Paramelis, they recommended mowing the area to create optimal conditions for its spores to establish new plants.
The naturalists also assessed the forests surrounding the Paramelis "island," particularly the pine forests with marsh Labrador tea (Ledum palustre) communities. They observed and recorded a variety of rare bird species, including the Lesser Spotted Eagle and Eurasian Hoopoe, and identified habitats for bats.
The Foundation team would like to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the scientific team and the sponsors for their commitment. We hope that their research and the growing conservation community will significantly contribute to the restoration and protection of the unique nature of Paramelis.