Степной заказник, Natural reserve in Dagestan, Russia
Stepnoy Natural Reserve is a protected area in Dagestan covering open grasslands where numerous native steppe plants and animals live. The reserve protects these grassland ecosystems from human activity and land use changes.
The reserve was established in 1973 to protect endangered steppe species and prevent further habitat loss. Its creation came after much of the surrounding grasslands had already been transformed by farming and other uses.
The reserve functions as an educational center where scientists conduct research on steppe ecosystems and document the behavior of local wildlife populations.
You need to get permission from the reserve administration before visiting and must follow rules to avoid disturbing wildlife. Plan your visit outside breeding seasons to minimize impact on nesting birds and animals.
The reserve is home to several rare bird species found in the Russian Red Book, attracting ornithologists from around the world. These feathered inhabitants can be spotted at a distance with binoculars and draw researchers interested in steppe bird populations.
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