Jovsi


Jovsi is an extensive natural plain divided into wetlands and covering an area of in the Municipality of Brežice in Slovenia. It lies west of the lower course of the Sotla River below the Kapele Hills. It is bounded by the road from Župelevec to Dobova to the west and the Sotla River to the east.
The name Jovsi is derived from German Jauchsee 'fetid lake'. Until the Sotla River was regulated, the area was regularly inundated by floodwaters from the river.
Jovsi is a flood-zone wetland of exceptional natural interest, distinguished by its great diversity of flora and fauna. About 80 species of birds nest here, which has provided ornithologists with the opportunity to collect extensive data. Certain important European species are regularly or intermittently found in Jovsi: the white-tailed eagle, European roller, black stork, white stork, common snipe, corn crake, and lesser grey shrike.
Because of its importance for nature conservation, the area is protected as a nature park.