Kurils Nature Reserve, Natural reserve in Yuzhno-Kurilsky District, Russia
The Kurils Nature Reserve covers Kunashir Island and the Lesser Kuril Chain, where volcanic formations, thick forests, and marine habitats create a complex natural landscape. The terrain shifts between high peaks and coastal zones where different ecosystems meet.
The protected area was established in 1984 to safeguard the natural processes of the southern Kuril Islands. This decision aimed to preserve rare island ecosystems that had been shaped by geological and biological forces over thousands of years.
The reserve contains archaeological remains from ancient settlements and Japanese structures scattered across its territory, showing how different communities shaped this landscape over time. These sites offer glimpses into how people once lived in these remote islands.
Visiting this reserve requires special permits and visitors must follow strict guidelines to protect wildlife and habitats. Planning ahead and obtaining the necessary permissions before arrival is essential for anyone wanting to explore this protected area.
The reserve shelters numerous bird and mammal species that are listed in conservation registries across the region. These animals thrive here because the remote location and strict protection keep human interference to a minimum.
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