The dry and damp meadows around Karacharovo village in the Volokolamsk district of Moscow region are largely untouched by modern agriculture and as a consequence are of significant ornithological interest.

Species
During spring migration small pools attract Curlew and Black-tailed Godwit, and a couple of pairs of the aforementioned species are likely to breed in the vicinity. Black Storks crop up on migration, while White Storks breed on the old village church. During the breeding season likely sightings include Hen Harrier, Common Crane, Black Grouse and Short-eared Owl. Other species which potentially breed are Lesser-spotted Eagle and Pallid Harrier, both rare in Moscow region.
This area without a doubt deserves more attention from ornithologists.

Access
Public Transport – by local train from Rizhskyi Vokzal to Volokolamsk, from there by bus to Karacharovo village – there are approximately 4 buses a day in either direction.

By car – Novorizhskoe shosse to Volokolamsk, 20km further on the P-108 to Ostashevo, from where it’s another 20kn to Karacharovo.

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Text - K. Kovalyev
Photo - K. Kovalyev