The permanent exhibition "The Animal World of Bukovina" is located in two halls on the first floor. Here, visitors can get an overview of the natural conditions of Chernivtsi Oblast and, in more detail, of the animals that inhabit this region. The main focus is on mammals and birds, but you can also learn about reptiles, amphibians, fish, and certain groups of insects.
Bukovina's territory boasts very diverse natural conditions, which contributes to a significant number of animals living here. The presence of extensive mountain and foothill forests, meadow and steppe areas, a well-developed hydrological network, and more ensures the habitation of animals with the most diverse ecological preferences. As a result, this relatively small territory (8097 km2 or 1.3% of Ukraine's area) is home to over 480 species of vertebrates and more than 15,000 invertebrates.
Traditionally, the greatest interest among visitors (especially children) is sparked by the taxidermied specimens of the brown bear – Bukovina's largest modern predatory animal, the red deer, and the white-tailed eagle (one of Ukraine's largest birds of prey).
In addition to these, you can also see over 150 more animal species here (taxidermied specimens, wet preparations, nests, eggs, etc.). Among them are both fairly common and well-known species (for example, wild boar, grey hare, fox, squirrel, house sparrow, rook, magpie), as well as lesser-known, rare ones listed in the Red Book of Ukraine and other conservation lists (Bukovina blind mole-rat, Eurasian eagle-owl, black stork, stoat, wildcat, and many others).
Getting acquainted with the "Animal World of Bukovina" exhibition is a wonderful opportunity for both children and adults to see what various animals actually look like and learn more about their lives. And all this – without leaving the centre of Chernivtsi.
