About this place
Rašovický zlom – Chobot is a small but ecologically valuable nature reserve in South Moravia, situated between the villages of Rašovice and Hodějice in the Vyškov district. The site lies southeast of the town of Slavkov u Brna and has been under legal protection since June 28, 1990, when it was declared by decree of the former Vyškov District Office.
Where does the name come from?
The reserve's distinctive, narrow and elongated shape resembles an elephant's trunk, which is why locals call it "Chobot" (Czech for trunk). It stretches as a strip through fields between the road running from Rašovice to Jalový dvůr and Heršpice, continuing further along a small stream all the way to the football pitch in Rašovice. This unusual elongated geometry follows the course of an underlying geological fault, which gives the site the first part of its name — Rašovický zlom, the Rašovice Fault.
What is being protected here?
The main purpose of the reserve is to preserve steppe-like plant communities that harbor drought-tolerant and heat-loving species of plants and insects. These xerothermic habitats stand out sharply against the surrounding agricultural landscape typical of the region. The terrain's exposure and the composition of its subsoil have allowed vegetation to survive here that has disappeared from much of the neighboring farmland elsewhere in Moravia.
What species can be found there?
The reserve is home to several rare and protected plant species, including Siberian bellflower, nodose sainfoin, military orchid, and feather grass, alongside upright germander and Vincent's sainfoin. This diversity of flora reflects well-preserved conditions typical of steppe-like dry grasslands.
Among the fauna, insects adapted to dry, warm conditions are of particular interest, while the small stream running through the site and its adjoining wet patches serve as breeding grounds for amphibians. Dragonflies and other aquatic insects, including water scorpions typical of small streams and pools, can also be observed within the reserve's boundaries.
Why is it worth visiting?
Rašovický zlom – Chobot demonstrates how even a relatively small patch within an agricultural landscape can carry significant ecological value. For nature and botany enthusiasts, it offers a chance to observe rare steppe plant species in their natural setting, away from crowds. The quiet surroundings, open fields, and proximity to Slavkov u Brna make the reserve an interesting destination for a short excursion for anyone curious about the region's flora and geology.
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is the reserve located? The reserve lies between the villages of Rašovice and Hodějice in the Vyškov district, southeast of Slavkov u Brna in South Moravia.
When was the reserve established? It was granted legal protection on June 28, 1990, by decree of the Vyškov District Office.
What is the main conservation focus? Steppe-like plant communities with drought- and heat-adapted species, along with amphibian breeding sites along the local stream.
Where does the name "Chobot" come from? The name refers to the site's narrow, elongated shape, which resembles an elephant's trunk.
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