Caucasus Biosphere Reserve, Nature reserve in Dakhovsky, Russia.
Caucasus Biosphere Reserve covers mountain landscapes with forests and open meadows distributed across three neighboring regions in southern Russia. The area stretches from the Black Sea to the higher ridges of the main range, with numerous valleys and rivers running through the terrain.
The area served as hunting grounds for the Russian imperial family during the late 19th century before being officially declared a protected zone in 1924. In the following decades, efforts to reintroduce endangered animal species were launched and continue to this day.
The name refers to the mountain range where forests and meadows remain largely untouched by human settlement. Visitors often spot animal tracks along the trails and experience how nature continues to function here without modern interference.
Hikers need a permit before entering certain zones and should bring sturdy footwear and weather-resistant clothing. Terrain can vary widely depending on altitude and season, so good preparation and enough drinking water are recommended.
Some yew trees in the area reach an age of around two millennia and are among the oldest trees in Europe. The European bison population reintroduced here has grown from the first animals to over a thousand specimens.
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