Baikal Nature Reserve
Facts and practical information
The Baikal Nature Reserve is a nature reserve on the southeast shore of Lake Baikal, in southern Buryatia, Russia. Also called Baikal Zapovednik, it was established in 1969 for preserving the nature along the lake and the neighboring central part of the Khamar-Daban Range. The area of this nature reserve is 165,700 hectares. It hosts dark pine taiga, thin forests, Siberian Dwarf Pine and rhododendron underbrush, subalpine meadows, and alpine tundras. The Baikal Nature Reserve is home to 812 kinds of plants, 49 types of mammals, 272 birds, 3 reptiles, 3 amphibians, and 7 types of fish. The reserve is also home to East Siberian brown bear, Baikal lynx, wolverine, otter, osprey, and golden eagle. The Baikal Nature Reserve is part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The reserve is also a part of the Lake Baikal World Heritage Site. The Kabansky Nature Zakaznik, across 12,100 ha, was transferred under the jurisdiction of the Baikal Nature Reserve in 1985. ()
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Golden eagle
The golden eagle, a majestic bird of prey revered across the Northern Hemisphere, belongs to the Accipitridae family. These eagles are easily identified by their dark brown feathers accented with striking golden-brown patches on their necks.
Birds
Brown (Grizzly) Bear
The brown bear, scientifically known as Ursus arctos, roams across Eurasia and North America. In North America, these majestic creatures are commonly referred to as grizzly bears. They are among the largest terrestrial carnivores, with only the polar bear rivaling...
Mammals
Western Osprey
The osprey, also known as the sea hawk, river hawk, or fish hawk, is a fascinating bird of prey found throughout the world. This diurnal raptor primarily feeds on fish and has developed several unique adaptations to enhance its ability to catch aquatic prey.
Birds
Wolverine
The wolverine, known scientifically as Gulo gulo, is the largest terrestrial member of the Mustelidae family. With its stout build and bear-like appearance, this formidable and solitary carnivore is renowned for its strength and ferocity, often taking down prey much...
Mammals
Eurasian Lynx
The lynx is a captivating medium-sized wild cat belonging to the genus Lynx, encompassing four recognized species. The name "lynx" is derived from the Greek word "λύγξ" which highlights the luminescent quality of its eyes.
Mammals
Buryat