The partial destruction of the Kakhovka Dam on June 6, 2023, resulted in significant flooding across southern Ukraine, affecting both Ukrainian and Russian territories. As the water receded, a dramatic ecological transformation has taken place, with the Dnipro River's floodplains reverting to pre-dam conditions from the 1950s. Ecologist Vadym Maniuk highlights that rivers are now alive with diverse wildlife. The area has seen the return of birds and various wildlife, revealing the resilience of nature and the hidden complexity of ecosystems in response to environmental changes.
Much of what happens in the floodplain landscape is hidden from view, he said, but streams like these are all along the river. "They can be fast-flowing streams, or narrow or wider ones, resembling ponds. All these labyrinths existed before the area was flooded to build the dam."
Birdsong interrupts the babbling of the many brooks, as Maniuk spots a sea eagle. "Just seeing that makes it worth bringing along a pair of binoculars," he said, gazing skyward. "That's the true ruler of the Dnipro floodplains."
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