A new chapter has begun in the wetland near Čiližská Radvaň – since the beginning of August, cows have been grazing on an area of 107 hectares, playing an important role in the restoration and protection of one of the most valuable wetland habitats in southern Slovakia. This site was only recently saved – thanks to the financial support of the public, who contributed to its purchase. Since then, it has officially become part of the Natura 2000 site Čiližské močiare. However, buying the land was only the first step – what matters most is its active management.
The wetland at Čiližská Radvaň has been particularly threatened by the spread of invasive plant species, such as Canadian goldenrod (Solidago canadensis). Within the LIFE Microtus II project, we therefore restored the water regime even before the cows arrived – water was brought into the wetland from a nearby drainage canal with the help of a newly built sluice. Long-term flooding brought an immediate effect: the coverage of goldenrod started to decline and was gradually replaced by native species such as sedges and reeds. This step was primarily aimed at supporting the endemic Pannonian root vole, but it also brought an important additional benefit – the effective suppression of invasive vegetation. To make the process even more effective, the goldenrod was also mowed. Now comes the next phase – grazing, which complements and strengthens this natural management.
That is why, within the LIFE Resistance project, we decided to introduce cattle grazing in the area. Grazing represents not only a return to traditional forms of land use but also a modern tool of close-to-nature management of protected areas. In the case of Čiližská Radvaň, grazing is an effective way to support biodiversity and control invasive plants. Cows not only weaken the expansion of invasive species but also prevent vegetation from building up, which would otherwise lead to the gradual infilling and drying out of the wetland. Grazing, in combination with the restored water regime, creates favourable conditions for the long-term preservation of this wonderful habitat.
The uniqueness of this wetland lies in its mosaic of wet and dry patches, which makes grazing even more important. The cows naturally move between these environments – grazing on dry meadows while also enjoying flooded parts, where they cool down in between feeding. This way, they create a diverse landscape structure that benefits many species of birds, amphibians, and insects.
Even after just a few days of grazing, positive changes are already visible. Flocks of herons fly around the cows, and the whole area feels alive again. This is clear proof that the cooperation between livestock and nature works. To allow visitors to enjoy this unique view, an observation tower will soon be built in the area. From there, people will be able to watch not only the herd of cows but also birds and other wildlife that are returning to the wetland thanks to our care.