Moldova

Moldova boasts a diverse and rich natural environment. In addition to its scenic forests and steppe belts, Moldova is home to several protected areas that contribute to its biodiversity. One such area is the Codri Hills region, located in the central part of the country. This region is known for its expansive forest cover, spanning approximately 3,000 square kilometers. Within these forests, you can find a variety of tree species, including hornbeam, oak, lime, maple, wild pear, and wild cherry. Additionally, beech forests can be found near the sources of the Ichel and Bâcu rivers. While Moldova's steppes were once covered in grass, most of them have now been cultivated. However, the country still boasts lush meadows and reeds in the floodplains of the Dniester and parts of the Prut rivers. In the saline valleys of the Cogâlnic, Ialpug, Botna, and lower Prut rivers, salt marshes thrive, adding to the country's diverse ecosystem. Despite its small size, Moldova supports a rich variety of animal life. Mammals such as wild boars, wolves, badgers, wildcats, ermines, swallows, and polecats can be found throughout the country. Commercially important species include roe deer, hares, foxes, and muskrats. Over time, Siberian Deer, Fallow Deer, and Spotted Deer have been introduced and have become common in Moldova. The avian population in Moldova is also abundant, with numerous resident and migratory bird species. The marshy lower reaches of the country's rivers offer a sanctuary for Wild Geese, migratory ducks, and herons. In the floodplain forests, you can spot White-Tailed Sea Eagles soaring through the skies. Other bird species, such as the Wood Lark, jay, Song Thrush, blackbird, hawk, and Long-Eared Owl, can be found in the forests of Moldova.