Lesser Kuril Ridge, Island chain in northwestern Pacific Ocean, Russia and Japan
The Lesser Kuril Ridge is an island chain in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, stretching between Hokkaido and the Greater Kuril Chain. The group comprises several islands with a combined area of approximately 360 square kilometers.
The Treaty of Shimoda in 1855 assigned the Lesser Kuril Ridge to Japan, but after World War II, the Soviet Union took control of these territories. They have remained under Russian administration ever since, though the territorial question with Japan continues to be disputed.
The islands support multiple populations of sea birds and water birds, establishing their recognition by BirdLife International as significant natural preservation zones.
The islands fall under Russian administration as part of the Yuzhno-Kurilsky District in Sakhalin Oblast. Access is restricted and requires special permits due to the remote location and disputed administrative status.
The island chain contains biologically important habitats recognized by BirdLife International as significant areas for seabirds and waterbirds. These areas attract ornithologists interested in observing the diversity of bird populations.
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