Kandalaksha Nature Reserve

Kandalaksha Nature Reserve is a protected area in Murmansk Oblast spanning coastline along both the White Sea and the Barents Sea. The terrain combines rocky islands, wetlands, and northern coniferous forest across more than 70,000 hectares.

The reserve was established in September 1937 to protect nesting sites for waterfowl on the islands of Kandalaksha Bay. It has since expanded several times to include large stretches of Barents Sea coastline as well.

The area takes its name from the nearby town of Kandalaksha and represents a protected zone spanning two distinct sea systems. Researchers from across Russia come here to document migratory patterns of seabirds and observe long-term shifts in tundra vegetation.

Visitors must apply for a permit from the reserve administration before entering any part of the protected zone. A marked trail about three kilometers long passes through one section, offering access without disturbing sensitive habitats.

More than 250 bird species and 67 mammal species use the reserve, including brown bears on land and grey seals plus ringed seals in coastal waters. The location across two seas creates conditions for a rare mix of Arctic and boreal species within one protected zone.