Animals in Ukraine

The Ukraine is an eastern European nation that is bordered by fellow nations on three sides. The southern border of the country is composed of the Black Sea. The geography of the Ukraine places vast plains and forests mixed in the west with rocky terrain giving way to the Carpathian Mountains in the east. The climate is typical for Europe with temperatures and precipitation varying as one moves south towards the warm of the Black Sea.

The Ukraine is positioned at a crossroads between Europe and Asia. Therefore, it is home to many types of wildlife. However, few are truly endemic to the country. The only known native reptile to the Ukraine is the Lindholm's Lizard. This is a small lizard that can be found in the rocky areas to the west skirting the Carpathian Mountains.

The only known endemic mammals to the Ukraine are rodent class animals. The Dneper Common Shrew can grow a few inches long and feeds mostly on insects, spiders and worms. The Sandy Mole Rat, thought to be on the brink of extinction, can be found in different areas of the Ukraine. This rodent tends to feed by scavenging or hunting insects, spiders and other small prey. They are endangered due to habitat loss and an introduction of different types of predators.

The Ukraine is also host to a variety of bird species though none are endemic. They range from the powerful, like the Peregrine Falcon to the beautiful, like the Grey Partridge. Many of these birds can be found throughout Europe and Asia and some even in the Americas and Africa.

In its freshwater streams and rivers, the Ukraine boasts over one hundred native species of fish. These fish are from the classifications of carp, bass, whitefish and several other major fish species. The abundance of fishing opportunities and encroachment of civilization has placed many of these creatures on endangered or watch lists.

While not native a traveler can experience many kinds of wildlife in the Ukraine. From Red Squirrels to various kinds of foxes, antelopes and bears, the Ukraine has life a plenty.