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Altai Reserve message. Reserves and national parks of Altai. Interesting facts about the Altai Reserve

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Altai State Natural Biosphere Reserve- a specially protected natural area in the Altai mountains. Founded in 1932, later abolished and recreated again. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Golden Mountains Altai". It is part of the Association of Reserves and National Parks of the Altai-Sayan Ecoregion.

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    In 1929, by order of the State Interdepartmental Committee for the Protection and Promotion of the Development of Natural Resources, a scientific and fishing expedition led by Professor V.I. Baranov was sent to Altai to survey the territory in order to organize a large reserve. According to the presented project, the future reserve was supposed to cover a vast territory of over 2 million hectares from Tuva to the Katun River. Teletskoye Lake would be in the center. The project was not destined to materialize. He was not approved. The decision to organize the reserve was made on May 4, 1930 by the Decree of the Council of People's Commissars of the USSR.

    Narkompros was instructed to clarify the boundaries of its location, for which a second expedition was organized in 1931 under the leadership of F. F. Schillinger. The work was carried out from the beginning of autumn to the first half of winter. The future boundaries of the reserve were outlined and justified. As a result, on December 10, 1931, the Oirot regional executive committee, and on December 28, 1931, the Khakass regional executive committee recognized the organization of the reserve as expedient by special resolutions. On April 16, 1932, the Council of People's Commissars of the RSFSR finally approved its borders. This date is considered to be the day of the foundation of the reserve.

    On May 27, 2009, on the island of Jeju, in the Republic of Korea, during the 21st session of the International Coordinating Council of the “Man and the Biosphere” program, a decision was made to include the Altai Reserve in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves (BR).

    The reserve is under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Ecology of the Russian Federation.

    Geography

    Along the boundaries of the reserve there are high ridges: in the north - the Torot ridge (a spur of the Abakan ridge, extending from it to the west almost at a right angle), in the northeast - Abakansky (Mount Sadonskaya, 2,890 m above sea level), in the extreme in the south - spurs of the Chikhachev Ridge (Mount Getedey, 3,021 m), in the east - the Shapshalsky Ridge (Mount Toshkalykaya, 3,507 m). Several isolated mountain ranges are located in the center of the reserve: Kurkure (Kurkurebazhi, 3,111 m 51°03′29″ s. sh. 88°24′21″ E d. HGIOL), Tetykol (up to 3,069 m), Chulyshmansky (Mount Bogoyash, 3,143 m). The western border runs along the Chulyshman River and along Teletskoye Lake. More than 20% of the area of ​​the reserve is covered with rocky, scree and pebbles. There are 1,190 lakes in the reserve with an area of ​​more than 1 ha each. On the Chulcha River, 8 km from the mouth, there is the largest waterfall in Altai - Bolshoi Chulchinsky (Uchar), this is a 150-meter cascade of water.

    The Altai Reserve is one of the largest reserves in Russia, its area is 9.4% of the entire territory of the Altai Republic. The entire right bank of Lake Teletskoye and 22,000 hectares of its water area are located in a protected area. The territory of the reserve does not have a single road (except for the recently extended gravel road in the north from the village of Biyka to the village of Yailu.) The territory is practically impassable if you do not use rare paths laid by foresters and employees of the reserve. However, the location of these trails must be well known when embarking on a journey without a guide. A visit to the reserve is only with the permission of the administration and is issued with an appropriate pass.

    Climate

    The climate of the reserve is continental, mountainous. Depends on the features of the terrain. Winter on the shores of Lake Teletskoye is one of the mildest in Siberia, which is associated with the influence of the eastern and southeastern föhns common at this time of the year. Northwest winds, on the contrary, bring cooling. To the south, winter temperatures drop. Summer is cool due to the elevated position of the reserve, it is absent on the mountain peaks. In the north it is wet, in the south it is drier.

    Climate of Lake Teletskoye (norm 1981-2010)
    Indicator Jan. Feb. March Apr. May June July Aug. Sen. Oct. Nov. Dec. Year
    Absolute maximum, °C 11,6 13,4 21,4 29,3 33,0 34,3 36,9 34,7 29,1 23,2 15,9 14,1 36,9
    Average temperature, °C −7,6 −7,1 −2,3 4,0 10,1 14,2 17,3 15,7 10,2 4,5 −2 −6,1 4,2
    Absolute minimum, °C −36,2 −38,7 −28,8 −24,3 −10,1 −1,3 1,6 0,1 −4,9 −18,7 −33 −33,5 −38,7
    Precipitation rate, mm 16 14 26 75 115 131 147 132 98 71 46 29 900
    Source:

    Flora

    On the territory of the Altai Reserve there are 1500 species of higher vascular plants, of which 22 species are listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation:

    • Polushnik lake - Isoetes lacustris L.(The species is endangered. Listed in the Red Book of Russia in 2008. Status: 2 (V). Vulnerable species),
    • Feather feathery - Stipa pennata L(Red Data Book of the Russian Federation 2008, Red Data Book of Mongolia. Vulnerable species. Decreasing populations. Status: 2 (V)),
    • Kovyl Zalessky - Stipa zalesskii Wilensky(Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status. III category. Rare species),
    • Kandyk Siberian - Erythronium sibiricum(Fisch. et Mey) Kryl. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. III category. Rare species),
    • Venus slipper swollen Cypripedium ventricosum
    • Venus slipper real - Cypripedium calceolus L. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 3 (R). Rare species.),
    • Venus slipper large-flowered - Cypripedium macranthon sw. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 3 (R). Rare species.),
    • Chip leafless - Epipogium aphyllum(F.W.Schmidt) Sw. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 4 (1). Species with an uncertain status.),
    • Neottiante clobouchkovy - Neottianthe cucullata(L.) Schecht. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 3 (R). Rare species.),
    • Liparis Lezel - Liparis loeselii (L.) Rich (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 3 (R). Rare species.),
    • Fingercorn  Baltic - Dactylorhiza baltica(Klinge) Orlova (Red Data Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 2 (U). Vulnerable species with undetermined status.),
    • Orchid helmet-bearing - Orchis militaris L.(Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status. 3 (R). Rare species.),
    • Altai rhubarb - Rheum altaicum Losinsk. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Resource plant, endemic Status: 3 (R). Rare species),
    • wrestler unfound - Aconite decipiens Worosch. et Anfalov (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status: 2 (V). Vulnerable species. Altai-Tuva endemic),
    • Wrestler Pasco - Aconite paskoi Worosch. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status. 3 (R). Rare species. Endemic),
    • Ostrolodochnik bloated - Oxytropis physocarpa ledeb. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status: 3 (R). Rare species. Endemic of the South-Eastern Altai and South-Western Tuva),
    • Ostrolodochnik Chuysky - Oxytropis tschujae
    • Zubyanka Siberian Dentaria sibirica(Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status: 3 (R). Rare species. Altai-Sayan Endemic),
    • Dendrantema notch thick - Dendranthema sinuatum(Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status: 2 (V). Vulnerable species. Endemic of Altai,),
    • Volodushka Martyanova - Bupleurum martjanovii(Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Altai-Sayan endemic Status: 3 R). Rare view. Endemic to the mountains of southern Siberia),
    • Rhodiola rosea Rhodiola rosea L. (Red Book of the Russian Federation 2008 Status: 3 (R). Rare species),
    • Kostenets Altai Asplenium altajense(Kom.) Grub. (Red Data Book of the Russian Federation 2008. Status. 4 (I). Species with uncertain status. Relic of tertiary flora. Paleoendem.).

    49 plant species are listed in the Red Book of the Altai Republic.

    Fauna

    Rare species of insects of the Altai Reserve. Red Book of the Russian Federation: Polyubyanka Rhymnus - Neolycaena rhymnus Apollo ordinary - Parnassius apollo (Category and status - 2 species declining in numbers. Listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation 2001), Erebia Kinderman - Erebia Kindermanni (Category and status - 2 species declining in numbers. Listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation in 2001). Species noted in the territory adjacent to the reserve, that is, the presence of which in the territory of the reserve is possible: Mnemosyne - Parnassius mnemosyne (Category and status - 2 species declining in numbers. Listed in the Red Book of the Russian Federation 2001)

    Mammals on the territory of the Altai Reserve lives 68 kinds. Of these, two species are listed in the International Red Book (IUCN) - Snow Leopard - Uncia uncia, which is extremely rare, lives mainly high in the mountains, above the forest line. Altai mountain sheep - Ovis ammon ammon, Siberian musk deer - Moschus moschiferus. Listed in the Red Book of Russia reindeer (forest subspecies) - Rangifer tarandus . Of the mammals in the reserve, there are 11 species of insectivores, 8 bats, 2 hares, 24 rodents, 15 species of carnivores (bear, lynx, otter, wolverine, sable, Siberian weasel) and 8 species

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    Altai Reserve located on the territory, in, in the north-east of Altai. The fate of the reserve was difficult. It was created and liquidated several times, as a result of which it lost its territory, but even at the moment the size of the reserve is impressive: it covers an area of ​​881,238 hectares. The reserve is surrounded by high ridges. This is a stunningly beautiful place: there are 1190 lakes in the reserve, many rivers, waterfalls, mountain ranges. 60% of the area is occupied by mountain tundra, fir taiga prevails in the north, and deciduous forests are located in the south. The territory of the reserve is rich in diverse flora, so here you can see spruce forests, pine forests, shrub zones, alpine meadows, fir and cedar trees. The slopes of the mountains are covered with such fruit bushes as raspberry, currant, wild rose, viburnum, sea buckthorn. Cherry blossoms in the taiga.

    In addition to the listed species of plants and trees, 36 species of ferns, 263 species of lichens, 127 species of mushrooms grow in the reserve. The abundance of herbs and flowers turns the meadows into colorful carpets. In total, 1270 species of plants are found on the territory of the reserve. Since the climate in the region where the reserve is located is continental, the winters there are very severe. The reserve has its own attractions and, first of all, it is a huge teletskoye lake that absorbs the waters of seventy rivers. Only one river Biya, which does not freeze in winter, flows out of it, which has a beneficial effect on ducks. The length of the lake is 78 km, from all sides it is surrounded by ridges. Lake Teletskoye is not rich in fish, only 18 species. These are grayling, whitefish, taimen, burbot. The main river of the reserve is Chulyshman. Its length is 10 km. The second attraction of the reserve is the largest waterfall in Altai - Big Chulchinsky waterfall. The height of the water fall reaches 150 meters.

    The fauna, like the flora, is diverse. Only 73 species of mammals are registered in the reserve, of which 16 species are predators. Bear, elk, lynx, wolverine, maral, musk deer are found in the taiga. There are a lot of squirrels and sable, chipmunk and voles, ermine. Ground squirrels rule the steppe. On the rest of the territory you can see argali, mountain goats, less often snow leopard-irbis, listed in the Red Book. Many birds nest on lakes and shores: gulls, whooper swans, black storks, herons. Capercaillie, quail, partridge live in the forests. A total of 323 species of birds, including rare species listed in the Red Book: golden eagle, peregrine falcon, white-tailed eagle, pink starling. The kingdom of invertebrates is especially diverse: 15 thousand species.

    We, people of the 21st century, accustomed to not moving away from civilization for more than a few days, no, no, and begin to nostalgic for those days when we could walk carefree in the park, live in the village or spend the night in a tent by the fire.

    Is this still possible in today's world? “Of course,” seasoned travelers will answer. However, to implement the plan, you will have to carefully choose a place to stay. For example, go to the Altai Reserve. Why should you choose this place? What is so unusual about it that for decades now, both residents of neighboring settlements and guests from near and far abroad have come here with pleasure every year.

    This article will not only tell readers what the West Altai Reserve is like, but also share a lot of useful information necessary for a comfortable pastime in nature.

    general description

    The Altai State Reserve began its work quite a long time ago, on October 7, 1967, when a new protected green area was created on the territory of the reserve, which existed from 1932 to 1951, by decision of the local authorities.

    It should be noted that, purely geographically, it is located in and covers the Turochaksky and Ulagansky regions of the Altai Republic.

    The Altai Reserve boasts an impressive area of ​​881,238 hectares.

    It should be noted that the length of the territory of the reserve from the southeast to the northwest is 230 km, and the width is 30-40 km.

    Goals and objectives

    The Altai Nature Reserve was created to achieve very specific goals.

    Let's try to list the most important ones:

    • preserve the most valuable and rare in beauty Lake Teletskoye and its landscapes;
    • protect cedar forests;
    • save the most important game animals that are on the verge of extinction, such as deer, elk, sable and so on.

    Also, the main goals of creating this reserve include the desire for a permanent stationary study of the nature of the region as a whole. The main task of the Altai State Nature Reserve is to provide, preserve and study:

    • typical and unique ecological systems;
    • the natural course of natural phenomena and processes;
    • genetic fund of flora and fauna;
    • individual species and communities of animals and plants.

    Features of the local flora

    The reserves in general, as well as the aforementioned territory in particular, are very rich in rare, and sometimes completely unique plants.

    The most common are such tree species as fir, spruce, larch, birch. Alpine ecologically clean cedar forests are considered real pride.

    It is hard to imagine that sometimes the diameter of a cedar tree growing here can reach 1.8 meters, despite the fact that its age is even a colossal figure - 400-450 years.

    In general, the West Altai Reserve is rich and diverse. It has about 1500 species of higher plants, 111 fungi. There are 272 species of lichens alone.

    There are 668 species of algae known to mankind in the reserve. Seven species of lichens from the collection, which the reserves of the Altai Territory can boast of, are listed in the Red Book of Russia. Such lower plants include laboratory (both reticulate and lung), bordered stikta, and others.

    It is interesting that in these parts there is a diverse species composition of animals and plants. Considerable variegation of the vegetation cover is created due to the local variety of climatic and natural-historical conditions, as well as due to the complex relief with heights reaching 3,500 meters in some places.

    Of the 1500 species of flora representatives known here, there are endemics and relics. The area of ​​the reserve is not only quite impressive, but also located very well: at the junction of the Altai, Tuva and Sayan mountain systems. The exceptionally rich fauna of the reserve is determined by the diversity of natural conditions, as well as the complexity of biogeographic boundaries and natural historical development.

    Animals of the Altai Reserve

    One of the main species of representatives of the fauna living in the Altai taiga is the sable. Nuts of the cedar tree occupy a significant place in its diet, therefore, the distribution of this animal in the territory of the reserve depends on the distribution of cedar, and the Altai Reserve has enough of these trees.

    Of the ungulate species of animals, deer, Siberian roe deer, Siberian goat, Siberian musk deer and mountain sheep live here.

    The most numerous species in the area of ​​the reserve is the maral, a large taiga-mountain deer. Like all deer, every year with the beginning of spring, he sheds his antlers, and new ones grow in return. Young antlers are called antlers. They are of great value as raw materials for medicines.

    Rare inhabitants of the reserve

    Siberian musk deer is found in the forests of the Altai Reserve. She has no horns, but there are well-developed fangs on the upper gum. Their length is approximately 10-12 cm. The musk gland of male musk deer can be used in the manufacture of quality perfumes.

    This reserve, as well as the Altai Territory, is famous as a natural habitat for another fairly rare animal - the Siberian mountain goat.

    In the south side, as well as in the adjacent territory, mountain sheep are found in the wild. True, it should be noted that due to the extermination of both predators and humans, only a few dozen of these animals remained, therefore they, together with the snow leopard, are listed in the Red Book.

    Few people know that only about 35 years ago a wild boar entered the reserve from Tuva. And today it is already quite common in the territory of this reserve, it successfully breeds and gradually increases in number.

    The Altai Reserve is also home to large predators such as the wolf, bear, wolverine and lynx. The bear lives in He is exceptionally mobile and develops a fairly high speed when running. Before going into the den, he accumulates a huge amount of fat, which is considered healing. In spring evenings, as well as in the morning, bears can be seen grazing on the southern slopes of the mountains, where they eat young shoots.

    The structure of the reserve

    At the moment, the Altai Reserve consists of four departments:

    • scientific;
    • environmental education;
    • security;
    • economic.

    One of the most important functions in the reserve is carried out with the help of the protection department.

    The main task of the scientific is to study the natural course of processes in natural complexes located on the territory of the Altai Reserve. With the help of the scientific staff, research is carried out in various directions. Today, the scientific department of the Altai Reserve takes an active part in the study of argala, musk deer, as well as the snow leopard.

    The Environmental Education Sector was created with the aim of shaping the Russian society's understanding of the problem related to nature protection and environmental safety. In this regard, the specialists of the reserve hold various events not only with the guests of the reserve, but also with the population.

    History of creation

    On May 24, 1958, the Council of Ministers of the RSFSR issued an order aimed at restoring this natural park, whose area at that time was 914,777 hectares.

    However, in the summer of 1961, the Altai Reserve was again disbanded. During the period from 1965 to 1967, the scientific community of Siberia raised the issue of the need to create such a special protected place within the territory of the reserve previously located here.

    On March 24, the Executive Committee of the Altai Regional Council of Workers' Deputies decides to organize a specially protected zone in order to preserve the unique natural complex of the Teletskoye taiga and Lake Teletskoye.

    What to see first?

    You can get to the Altai Reserve only from Teletskoye Lake, so you will definitely have the opportunity to get to know and appreciate the so-called Altyn-Kolya.

    This lake got its Russian name from the Cossacks, who first appeared here in the 17th century. The origin of the unusual name is connected with the Altai tribe of Teles, who lived on the shore of the lake.

    Also in the reserve there are interesting routes, such as Lake Kholodnoe, waterfalls Korbu, Kishte and Inaccessible.

    By the way, not everyone knows that the Korbu waterfall is located in the middle of Lake Teletskoye. It has a well-equipped observation deck and its height is 12.5 meters. This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the reserve.

    Korbu Waterfall

    This place is located on the Korbu River of the same name, which flows into Lake Teletskoye. The entire right bank of the lake is also located on the territory of the Altai Reserve.

    The waterfall forms a cloud of water dust that constantly hovers around it.

    Guests of the reserve, located on a spacious observation deck of the waterfall, enjoy a magnificent view. In the winter season, when the river freezes completely, the Korbu waterfall creates a continuous picturesque ice wall.

    There is only one way to get to the waterfall: you need to cross the lake using a boat. This tour is very popular among tourists. However, there is some danger for travelers getting to the waterfall by the lake, as there is a possibility that the top or bottom will begin, which at times makes the trip almost impossible.

    Since 1978, the Korbu waterfall has been in the status of a natural monument.

    Waterfall Kishte

    This stunning and picturesque place is located on the river of the same name, which flows into Lake Teletskoye along the right bank.

    Tourists have the opportunity to enjoy the amazing beauty of this waterfall up close.

    Note that you can only get to the waterfall with the help of a motorboat, since a pleasure boat does not enter it. The noise of falling water can be heard even from the lake, therefore, in fact, it was called Kishte, which means “calling” in translation.

    It also has a second name - Sable. It should be noted that the waterfall is located on the territory of the Altai Reserve, so in order to visit it, you need to have a special permit.

    What is forbidden to do in the reserve?

    Any activity that is contrary to the goals of the reserve is prohibited. Therefore, on its territory it is impossible:

    • is located, pass and pass by unauthorized persons and vehicles;
    • cut wood, harvest resin, tree sap, medicinal plants and technical raw materials, collect wild fruits, berries, mushrooms, flowers;
    • mow hay, graze cattle, place beehives and apiaries;
    • hunt and fish;
    • build buildings, roads and other communications;
    • pollute the territory with various waste and garbage;
    • damage and destroy information signs and stands of the reserve, as well as do anything that interferes with the natural development of natural processes and threatens natural complexes and objects.

    Republic of Altai, Turachaksky district

    Founding history
    The Altai Reserve has existed since 1932 and has a very turbulent history. So, its area changed several times, it was liquidated twice, and then restored. Currently, one of the largest reserves in Southern Siberia has an area of ​​​​more than 880 thousand hectares (the original area was 1.3 million hectares), and with an average latitude of about 35 km, it extends from north to south for 250 km.
    The originality and uniqueness of this territory have also received international recognition: together with the calm zone of the Ukok plateau, Lake Teletskoye and the lakeside taiga, the Altai Reserve is included in the Golden Mountains of Altai World Natural Heritage site.

    Physical and geographical features
    Along the boundaries of the reserve there are high ridges: in the north - Abakansky, in the south - Chikhachev, in the east - Shapshalsky. From the west, the territory is bounded by the valleys of the Chulyshman, Karakem and Lake Teletskoye rivers. Several separate mountain ranges are located in the center of the reserve, the highest mountain here is Bogoyash (3143 meters).
    Numerous rivers of the reserve are very picturesque - with powerful rapids, rifts, quiet reaches and waterfalls. On the Chulcha River there is the largest waterfall in Altai - "Impregnable", its height is 150 meters. In the middle and lower reaches, the rivers have steep, forested slopes, their channels are cluttered with stones, the flow speed reaches 2-5 meters per second!
    There are 1190 lakes in the reserve, the largest and most famous of them are Dzhulukul, located at an altitude of 2200 meters above sea level, and Teletskoye, or Altyn-Kolyu - Golden Lake. Due to its great depth, this lake contains a huge amount of excellent fresh, oxygenated, clean water.
    The features of the relief and the conditions for the transfer of air masses give rise to a significant variety of climatic conditions with a general continental climate. The northern part is characterized by warm and humid summers, snowy and relatively mild winters. In the southern part of the reserve, the climate is more severe, in winter frosts reach -30ºС.



    Diversity of flora and fauna
    The vegetation of the reserve is represented by forests, alpine tundra, meadows, swamps and steppes. Forests occupy more than 45% of the area of ​​the reserve and are represented by fir, mixed, cedar massifs, there are small spruce and pine forests. Individual specimens of cedar reach the age of 600 years. The flora of the Altai Reserve includes about 1,500 species of plants, many endemics and relics: notched-leaved dendranthemum, vesiculate arthropod, Siberian kandyk, loose sedge.
    The diversity of the animal world is determined by the complex natural and historical development of the region. Here you can meet the inhabitants of high latitudes (reindeer, white partridge), and the inhabitant of the Mongolian steppes (gray marmot), and many typical "taiga dwellers". Predators are represented by brown bear, lynx, wolverine, sable.
    Among the birds: capercaillie, hazel grouse, white partridge, there are golden eagle, black stork. Grayling, taimen, lenok are found in Lake Teletskoye and its tributaries.

    What to watch
    You can get to the reserve only along Teletskoye Lake, so you will definitely get to know and appreciate Altyn-Kolya. The Russian name was given to the lake by the Cossacks-pioneers who appeared here in the 17th century; it comes from the name of the Altai tribe Teles, which lived on the shores of the lake.
    Several interesting routes are organized in the reserve, including to the Korbu ridge, Kishte, Korbu, Unapproachable waterfalls, Lake Kholodnoe.
    The Korbu waterfall, 12.5 meters high, is one of the most beautiful in the reserve. It is located in the middle part of Lake Teletskoye, has a well-equipped observation deck and information stands.

    According to oopt.info and zapoved.ru

    Reserves of Russia- amazing beautiful places, if you set a goal to go around all the reserved places in Russia, then you need to devote your whole life to this. Therefore, we invite you on a virtual journey through the reserves of Russia. A brief description of each of them contains information about the location, creation, features and photos. Information about the reserves of Russia is enough to decide where you want to go. We propose to start visiting the reserves of Russia from the Altai Territory and its reserves.

    Reserves of Altai

    The Altai Reserve, the Katunsky Reserves, the three-kilometer protective strip around Lake Teletskoye, the Belukha Natural Park and the Ukok Rest Zone together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site called Altai - the Golden Mountains.

    Nature of Altai

    Altai, Altai mountains- this is a complex system of the highest mountain ranges in Siberia, separated by deep river valleys and vast basins. The Altai mountain system is located where the borders of Russia, Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan converge. The name of the mountainous country Altai comes from the Mongolian word altyn - golden. Another Russian interpretation of this word is motley mountains, and it more accurately reflects the picture that you will meet in Altai: having climbed high up the mountain, you will see that the slope facing north is overgrown with dense taiga, and the opposite southern slope is covered with dry steppe grasses, thorny bushes of acacia and barberry. At the bottom of the valley, where the white waters of the Chui flow, summer is in full swing, and early spring is just beginning on the crests of high ridges.

    What is interesting about Altai

    Tourists are attracted to Altai by Altai reserves and archaeological sites.: thousands of burial mounds and soil burial grounds, ancient settlements and settlements, cave sites of the Stone Age, places of worship and mining sites for copper and gold. Altai is a place of many religions: Christianity, Islam, Lamaism and Buddhism, and some Altai tribes still retain their pagan faith, and worship the good god Ulgen and the evil Erlik. Ecologically clean products of natural origin have healing properties, such as antlers, honey and propolis from mountain apiaries, mummy, golden root.

    Altai State Nature Reserve

    Brief information about the Altai Reserve

    Location: The Altai Reserve is located in the mountains of Southern Siberia in the Turochaksky and Ulagansky regions of the Altai Republic.

    The area of ​​the reserve: 881,238 hectares according to the 1981 forest inventory.

    The length of the territory of the Altai Reserve: from northwest to southeast - 230 km, width 30-40, up to 75 km.
    The territory of the Altai and Katunsky reserves is included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List under the name "Golden Mountains of Altai" (1998)

    Physical and geographical features of the Altai Reserve

    Along the boundaries of the reserve there are high ridges: in the north - the Torot ridge (a spur of the Abakan ridge, extending from it to the west almost at a right angle), in the northeast - Abakansky (Mount Sadonskaya, 2,890 m above sea level), in the extreme in the south - the spurs of the Chikhachev ridge (Mount Getedey, 3,021 m), in the east - Shapshalsky (Mount Toshkalykaya, 3,507 m). Several isolated mountain ranges are also located in the center of the reserve: Kurkure (Kurkurebazhi, 3,111 m), Tetykol (up to 3,069 m), Chulyshmansky (Mount Bogoyash, 3,143 m). The western border runs along the Chulyshman River and along Lake Teletskoye. More than 20% of the area of ​​the reserve is covered with rocky, scree and pebbles. There are 1,190 lakes in the reserve with an area of ​​more than 1 ha each. On the Chulcha River, 8 km from the mouth, there is the largest waterfall in Altai - Bolshoy Chulchinsky (Uchar), this is a 150-meter cascade of water. The climate is continental.

    Flora of the Altai Reserve

    The flora of the reserve is extremely rich. There are more than 500 species of algae and lichens. Plants - 1,480 species. The forests of the reserve mainly consist of coniferous species: Siberian larch, Siberian cedar and Siberian fir. 34 species of mosses, fungi, lichens and vascular plants are listed in the Red Books of the Altai Republic and Russia. More than 200 endemics, as well as rare steppe, forest, water and alpine communities are located on the territory of the Altai Reserve. This determines its outstanding role in the protection of the flora and vegetation of Southern Siberia.

    Fauna of the Altai Reserve

    Of the mammals in the reserve, there are 11 species of insectivores, 7 bats, 3 hares, 13 rodents, 16 species of carnivores (bear, lynx, otter, wolverine, sable, Siberian weasel and squirrel) and 8 species of artiodactyls (elk, deer, mountain sheep, Siberian roe deer, Siberian ibex, reindeer and musk deer). The snow leopard, the irbis, is extremely rare in the reserve. This animal is listed in the Red Book of Russia. It lives mainly high in the mountains, above the forest line.
    323 species of birds have been registered. White partridge, capercaillie, quail, hazel grouse, sandpiper and others live here. The gray heron, black stork, whooper swan, little gull, pink starling, Altai snowcock, white-tailed eagle, golden eagle, peregrine falcon and osprey are listed in the Red Book.
    There are 6 types of reptiles: viper, snakes, lizards and others. The variety of invertebrates is great - about 15 thousand species. 18 species of fish live in the reservoirs of the reserve.

    Features of visiting the Altai Reserve

    A visit to the reserve is only with the permission of the administration and is issued with an appropriate pass.

    The territory of the Altai Reserve of extraordinary natural beauty and aesthetic value, containing the most significant habitats of biological varieties and having an exceptional worldwide value from the point of view of science. The Altai Reserve is one of the largest reserves in Russia, its area is 9.4% of the entire territory of the Altai Republic. The entire right bank of Lake Teletskoye and 22,000 hectares of its water area are located in a protected area. The entire territory of the reserve does not have a single road (except for the recently extended gravel road in the north from the village of Biyka to the village of Yailu.) The territory is practically impassable if you do not use rare paths laid by foresters and reserve employees. However, the location of these trails must be well known when embarking on a journey without a guide.

    Website of the Altai Reserve: www.altzapovednik.ru

    Katun Biosphere Reserve

    Brief information about the Katunsky Reserve

    Established: Katunsky Reserve was established on June 25, 1991 as a state nature reserve, in January 2000 it received the status of a biosphere reserve.
    Location: The reserve is located in the highlands of the Central Altai, on the territory of the Ust-Koksinsky district of the Altai Republic.
    The area of ​​the Katunsky Reserve: 151,664 hectares.
    The absolute heights of the reserve range from 1300 to 3280 m above sea level. On the territory of the reserve there are 135 lakes with an area of ​​0.9 hectares or more.
    Since January 2000, the territory adjacent to the Katunsky Reserve has become the Belukha National Park.
    The territory of the Katunsky and Altaisky reserves is included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List under the name "Golden Mountains of Altai" (1998).

    Physical and geographical features of the Katunsky Reserve

    It is located in the highest part of Altai - on the Katunsky ridge. The area of ​​the reserve is 151 thousand hectares. Mount Belukha (4,506 m) is adjacent to the territory of the reserve - the highest point in Siberia, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. The reserve is located at altitudes from 1300 to 3280 m. High mountains with large glaciers, snowfields and stony placers and middle mountains with tundra, alpine and subalpine meadows are widespread within its boundaries. Forest communities predominate along the deeply incised river valleys and in the lower parts of the slopes.
    The territory of the reserve has been changed everywhere by ancient and modern glaciers, the activity of which is recorded in peaked peaks, kars, trough-shaped trough valleys with many lakes. One of the most powerful centers of modern glaciation in Altai is located here.
    One of the largest rivers of Altai, the Katun, originates in the reserve. All the rivers of the reserve belong to its basin and have a mountainous character with large slopes. There are 135 picturesque lakes in the reserve, the origin of which is connected with the work of ancient glaciers.

    Flora of the Katunsky Reserve

    the vegetation has a high-mountain-taiga-forest-steppe type. Of interest are most plant species, especially those listed in the Red Books. Of these, the following were noted on the territory of the reserve: ukokskaya larkspur, Altai rhubarb, steppe peony, rhodiopes: frosty, four-cut, pink, gravilate kolyury, Siberian kandyk, Altai onion, safflower-like rapontikum and others (18 species in total). There are also endemics here - species that grow only in this region (Krylov's fescue, etc.) and relics of past eras (sharp-toothed dryad, etc.)

    Fauna of the Katunsky Reserve

    The fauna of the reserve is diverse. Currently, 55 species of mammals, 180 species of birds, 6 species of reptiles, 2 species of amphibians, 8 species of fish, 135 species of Lepidoptera have been recorded. Of the fur-bearing species of animals, sable, squirrel, Siberian weasel, ermine, saltwort, marmot, steppe polecat and American mink are found here. Predators are no less typical - lynx, wolverine, fox and wolf. Their largest representative is the brown bear. Of the ungulates, there are elk, maral, roe deer, musk deer, Siberian mountain goat. A special place is occupied by the snow leopard, listed in the Red Book of Russia and the IUCN. The Red Book of the Republic of Altai includes the river otter, the mustachioed bat and the Brandt. Of the birds, the Red Book species are interesting: golden eagle, Altai snowcock, eagle owl, black stork, saker falcon and peregrine falcon. Reptiles are represented by four types of snakes - a patterned snake, an ordinary muzzle, a steppe and an ordinary viper, two types of lizards - a nimble and viviparous. Common taimen, grayling, lenok (uskuch), Siberian minnow, char, sculpin and common burbot live in rivers and lakes.

    Features of visiting the Katunsky Reserve

    By visiting the Katunsky Reserve in the coming season or at any other time of the year, by prior arrangement, you can:
    get acquainted with the nature of the reserve, learn about nature conservation on the Katunsky ridge, touch the Altai and Old Believer culture, see the red deer, visit the apiaries in the upper reaches of the river. Katun, test yourself in extreme conditions of wild nature, go fishing in mountain rivers and lakes.

    Website of the Katunsky Reserve: www.katunsky.h1.ru

    Tigirek Reserve

    Brief information about the Tigirek Reserve

    Tigirek Reserve is a state natural reserve,
    The Tigirek Nature Reserve was formed on December 4, 1999.
    Location: The Tigirek Nature Reserve is located in the southwestern part of the Altai Territory, including the sections of the Zmeinogorsky, Tretyakov and Krasnoshchekovsky regions bordering Kazakhstan.
    The area of ​​the Tigireksky reserve: more than 40 thousand hectares.
    The purpose of the creation of the Tigireksky reserve: the protection of slightly disturbed mountain ecosystems of the western Altai.

    Physical and geographical features of the Tigirek Reserve

    The territory occupies the watershed between the right tributaries of the Charysh River and the headwaters of the sources of the Alei River. The area of ​​the reserve is 40,693 ha, with a protected area of ​​26,257 ha. Initially, the territory of the reserve was supposed to be about 300 thousand hectares. The reserve consists of three sections: Beloretsky - the upper reaches of the Belaya River, Tigireksky - adjacent from the south to the village of Tigirek, Khankharinsky - the upper reaches of the Bolshaya Khankhara River.
    The relief of the reserve is mid-mountain with domed peaks. Absolute heights reach 2200 meters above sea level. There are many rivers on the territory, the largest of which is the Belaya. The climate of the reserve is sharply continental with hot summers and cold winters. In January, the temperature can drop to -49ºC -52ºС, the absolute maximum in July is +33ºC +38ºС.

    Flora of the Tigirek Reserve

    Features of the vegetation cover of the reserve are determined by its geographical location, climate heterogeneity and variety of environmental conditions. The main area is occupied by the black taiga, which is an ancient (relict) formation. The Tigireksky Reserve is a refuge for the following tertiary relics: spinous osmoriza, European hoof, common wolfberry, broad-leaved bellflower. The flora of the reserve includes a large number of medicinal, fodder, melliferous and ornamental plants. Medicinal plants growing in the Tigireksky reserve include: Rhodiola rosea (golden root), safflower-like raponticum (maral root), peony marin root, thick-leaved bergenia. Among food plants, the most famous are spinach sorrel, blueberries, common viburnum, prickly rose hips, and common asparagus. The Red Books of the RSFSR and the Altai Territory include, growing in the Tigireksky Reserve: male shield, Altai stelleropsis, Altai onion, Bludov's killer whale, broad-leaved bell, peony marin root and others.

    Fauna of the Tigirek Reserve

    The fauna of the reserve is represented, first of all, by such large animals as brown bear, maral, roe deer, elk. Sable, Siberian weasel, ermine, squirrel, chipmunk, white hare are common throughout the territory of the Tigireksky Reserve. Less common are lynx, weasel, wolverine, salmon, and a few musk deer.
    Also on the territory of the Tigireksky reserve there are many species of birds. The most characteristic forest birds are the hazel grouse, black grouse, the Ural owl, the boreal owl, the nutcracker, and occasionally the capercaillie.
    Employees of the Tigirek Reserve in the Altai Territory discovered three species of birds that had not been seen here before. These are greenfinch, large shrike and small grosbeak. The press center of the reserve emphasized that the Lesser Grosbeak was noted for the first time not only in Altai, but also, possibly, in Western Siberia.

    Website of the Tigiretsky Reserve: www.tigirek.asu.ru

    Prepared based on materials from the sites of Altai reserves and Wikipedia - the free encyclopedia