Zitoradja is an oasis for gray partridges in Serbia: Hunting is banned, and the birds have a special task

Photo: Ivan Strahinic

Zitoradja is located in the southeast of Serbia, in the Toplica District - a town that has existed since the 4th century, when the old Byzantine city called Zitoradja Castle was first mentioned.

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Today, the town, whose inhabitants mostly gravitate towards Nis and Prokuplje, is known for watermelon farming, an art colony, cultural events during the summer, and Mount Pasjaca, which is often visited by nature lovers.

Given that there are many quails, pheasants and small game in this part of Serbia, it is no wonder that hunters from Europe have long been interested in coming to Zitoradja.

However, what makes Zitoradja stand out are gray partridges, birds that carefully choose their habitat and never survive in areas that are treated with weed-suppressing chemicals.

It is precisely because of the minimal use of herbicides on its green fields that partridges have chosen Zitoradja and this part of Serbia as their home.

Hunting these birds in one of their last oases in Europe is prohibited - partridges are used exclusively for dog training.

Photo: Ivan Strahinic

(Ona.rs)