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THE VOLGA DELTA

The Volga Delta is the largest inland delta in Europe, and occurs where Europe's largest river system, the Volga River, drains into the Caspian Sea in Russia. The delta drains into the Caspian approximately 60 km downstream from the city of Astrakhan. This south-easternmost corner of Europe combines the largest river and the only sand desert in Europe. The Volga delta is of special interest due to its unique mix of species associated with European, Caucasian and Asian ecosystems. Here, extensive pastures are crisscrossed by broad waterways and fast running streams, which turn into well developed floodplain forests with vast areas of willows, poplars and alders. Despite having been protected since the early twentieth century, much of the local fauna is rare or endangered, with many species logged in Red Data Books of Russian Federation.

The ecosystems of the Astrakhan region are well preserved in the Astrakhansky Zapovednik, one of Russia’s oldest nature reserves. With more than 250 avian species recorded in the reserve, Astrakhansky Zapovednik has earned its reputation as a true sanctuary for birds. Typical birds of this area are: Great Blackheaded Gull, White-tailed Eagle, Caspian Tern, Dalmatian Pelican, Penduline Tit, Night Heron, Cetti’s Warbler, the elegant Demoiselle Crane and Black-winged Pratincole. To the west and east of the delta there are extensive steppes which are the territories for Steppe Eagle and Calandra Lark. Where the local lakes are bordered by reed-fields and forests, colonies of breeding Red-footed Falcons can be seen. In early spring, many waders can also be spotted.

To read about the Astrakhansky State Nature Reserve (Zapovednik) please click here 


BROWSE TOURS IN THE REGION