“Nature protected.” That’s what comes to mind as we approach Shungerovsky. It is a nature reserve. Today we explore this green space in Saint Petersburg.
Shungerovsky is a state nature reserve. It has regional significance. It aims to conserve and restore natural complexes. It also maintains ecological balance.
Imagine this area long ago. Picture a vast forest. It stretched along the southern shore. This was before Saint Petersburg. This land belonged to Great Novgorod.
Let’s fast forward to 1617. Sweden gained control. They called it Ingermanland. Peter the Great reclaimed it about a century later. He envisioned imperial residences here.
Now let’s jump to the 18th century. The Shungerovo settlement emerged. This gave the future park its name. By 1940 the Shungerovsky Forest Park was established. It covered 340 hectares.
During World War II the area saw conflict. German forces occupied it. The forest suffered greatly. Much of the old growth was lost.
Today Shungerovsky is divided. It has two sections. The Lesnoy area includes the former forest park. The Kikenka area follows the Kikenka River.
The Lesnoy section is mostly forest. You’ll find pine and spruce trees. Some broadleaf trees exist too. The Kikenka section features the river. It has unique streams.
Shungerovsky protects biodiversity. It has many plant and animal species. Some are rare. Some are endangered.
Look around to spot various birds. Seventy species call this place home. The forest provides shelter. The wetlands offer food. Keep an eye out for the protected Corncrake.
Notice the diverse plant life. Over 600 plant species grow here. Many are mosses and lichens. Look for the Baltic Marsh Orchid. It is on the Red Data Book list.
Authorities restrict activities here. They prohibit driving and construction. Open fires are banned too. This protects the fragile ecosystem.
Plans are underway for an eco trail. This will allow visitors. It will let them experience Shungerovsky. It will help them learn about nature.
So as we conclude our visit to Shungerovsky remember this. It is a haven. It is a place where nature persists. It is a space that deserves our protection.