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A Birdwatcher’s Paradise at Lake Narach
Lake Narach and its surrounding national park are a true haven for birds. Over 230 species have been recorded here, with around 185 nesting in the area. In spring and summer, the region becomes a natural symphony: larks sing overhead, starlings chatter in the trees, and deep in the reeds, the elusive bittern calls with a sound like someone blowing across a bottle.
On the lake itself, you might spot coots, great crested grebes, mallards, mute swans, goldeneyes, gulls, and even the rare smew—only about 15–25 pairs nest in all of Belarus! Above the wetlands, cranes and marsh harriers soar, while the forests echo with the tapping of woodpeckers and the songs of tits, chaffinches, and thrushes.
Lake Narach isn’t just a scenic retreat—it’s a vibrant home for countless winged residents. Bring your binoculars and a bit of patience, and you might just catch a glimpse of something extraordinary.
Narochansky Eel and the Art of Ukha: A Taste of Belarusian Tradition
Nestled within the pristine waters of Lake Naroch, the Narochansky eel is a prized delicacy in Belarusian cuisine. This freshwater eel, known for its rich, tender meat, has long been a staple for local fishermen and culinary enthusiasts alike. Traditionally, it is smoked or prepared in hearty stews, offering a deep, smoky flavor that pairs beautifully with rustic Belarusian dishes.
One of the most beloved ways to enjoy fish in Belarus is through ukha a traditional fish soup that has been cherished for centuries. Ukha is not just a dish—it is an experience, often prepared outdoors over an open flame, bringing people together in a celebration of nature and good food. The soup is made by simmering fresh fish (including eel), potatoes, onions, and fragrant herbs, creating a light yet flavorful broth. Some variations include a splash of vodka for an extra layer of warmth and depth.
The combination of Narochansky eel and ukha embodies the essence of Belarusian culinary heritage—simple, natural, and deeply connected to the land and water. Whether enjoyed by the lakeside or in a cozy kitchen, these dishes offer a taste of tradition that continues to bring people together.
Canada goose hunting from kayak. GoPro video.
An interesting fact is that of all the subspecies of geese, the Canadian goose flies the worst. This is due to its large weight. That is why the author of the video was in no hurry to get the gun out of the case.
Canada geese have been introduced in Europe in the early 17th century by explorer Samuel de Champlain who sent several pairs of geese to France as a present for King Louis XIII. The Canada goose was one of the many species described by Carl Linnaeus in his 18th-century work Systema Naturae.
The Canadian goose (Branta canadensis) is a waterfowl from the duck family. It is the most widespread waterfowl in North America: its population exceeds 5 million individuals.
The body length of the Canadian goose is 55-110 cm, the wingspan is 120-180 cm, and the weight is 2.0—6.5 kg.
The Canadian goose is native to North America. Currently, the bird breeds mainly in Alaska and Canada, including on the Arctic coasts and islands of the Canadian Arctic Archipelago. And also on the Aleutian Islands in Russia.
The Canada goose is almost exclusively herbivorous. It feeds mainly on land, tearing off the green parts of herbaceous plants and digging out their rhizomes and bulbs with its rather strong beak.
Canada geese live on the banks of rivers, reservoirs, swamps, and flooded lowlands. The Canada goose walks very well on the ground and swims well, but it flies worse than other geese.
Canada geese are known for their seasonal migrations. Most Canada geese have staging or resting areas where they join up with others. Their autumn migration can be seen from September to the beginning of November. Some geese return to the same nesting ground year after year and lay eggs with their mate, raising them in the same way each year.
Canada geese fly in a distinctive V-shaped flight formation, with an altitude of 1 km (3,000 feet) for migration flight. The maximum flight ceiling of Canada geese is unknown, but they have been reported at 9 km (29,000 feet).
The Canada goose is a favorite hunting object due to its size and the taste of the meat. About 400,000 representatives of this species are shot annually during the hunting season in the USA and Canada. In Russia, hunting for the Canadian goose, which lives only on the Aleutian Islands, is prohibited.
