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Important Bird Areas in Europe – Russia

■■■■■ RUSSIATANYA SVIRIDOVA

Danilovskoye marshes (IBA 073). (PHOTO: MIKHAIL IVANOV/RBCU)

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Russia, covering about 17,075,400 km2, spans two continents—Europe and Asia. This account considers only the European part ofRussia, which covers about 3,955,800 km2 and which is bounded inthe east by the Ural mountains, in the south by the Caspian Sea,Caucasus mountains, the Black Sea and Ukraine, in the west byBelarus and the Baltic countries, in the north-west by the Fenno-scandian countries, and in the north by the Arctic Ocean. EuropeanRussia straddles the latitudes between 44°N and 82°N (i.e. includingFranz Josef Land), and the longitudes between 20°E and 70°E.

European Russia crosses three time-zones as well as eight majorbiogeographic zones, and contains an enormous diversity of natural,man-altered and artificial environments, which provide habitatsfor an extraordinarily rich flora and fauna. The biogeographic zonesvary from semi-desert in the south-east, passing as one movesnorthward through steppe, wooded steppe, temperate broadleavedand mixed forest, boreal forest (taiga), wooded tundra, and finallyto the tundra proper in the far north. Similar zonation occurs, withincreasing altitude, on the main mountain ranges.

Most of the land surface of European Russia lies between sealevel and 200 m elevation. There are two high mountain ranges:the Urals (up to c.2,000 m) and the Caucasus (up to c.5,640 m). Inaddition, the Central Russian Uplands lie in the middle of EuropeanRussia. Several large rivers cross European Russia, such as theVolga, Pechora, Severnaya Dvina, Onega, and Don.

European Russia includes 53 out of the 89 administrative regionsin the whole country. These incorporate many of the larger centresof human population in Russia, such as Moscow, St Petersburg,Nizhni Novgorod, Saratov, Kazan’, Samara, Volgograd, Ufa, Perm’,Rostov-na-Donu and Stavropol. Away from these centres, populationdensities are generally lower than those elsewhere in Europe. Vastareas of mountains and northern forests are sparsely populated.

Out of those sites proposed as Important Bird Areas (IBAs)during the current IBA review, which spanned 1995 to 1997, a totalof 218 were confirmed to meet criteria (Table 1). The 218 sites

comprise 154 ‘new’ sites and 64 ‘original’ sites. The previousinventory of IBAs in Europe (Grimmett and Jones 1989) identified75 sites in European Russia (‘original’ sites), but 11 of these (listedin Table 1) were excluded from the present review for variousreasons. Of these 11, one (former site SU110) was mistakenlyclassified as lying in Russian territory but was actually in Belarus(see Belarus chapter), four were duplicates of other sites (formersite SU098 was the same as former site SU101, and former sitesSU131, SU134 and SU135 were the same as SU133), while the othersix sites do not meet the current IBA criteria (which have beenrevised since 1989). Of the remaining 64 ‘original’ sites which areconsidered to meet the current criteria, 46 were updated with newinformation and were confirmed to meet the revised criteria, whilethere was no new information for the remaining 18, for whichcriteria have been assigned provisionally, based on information inthe original 1989 inventory.

Although the 218 IBAs cover about 174,500 km2, or about 4.4%of the land area of European Russia, they are not evenly distributedthroughout this territory. There are few IBAs on the inland tundra,away from the Arctic shore—identifying such IBAs is difficultbecause of the lack of infrastructure and because many species breedthere in a highly dispersed fashion, meaning that a particular areaon its own may not support a significant number of individuals ofa species. In addition, there is a large area in the main forest-zonein the north-east of European Russia where very few IBAs havebeen identified (see Map 1). At the level of individual administrativeregions, IBAs tend to be located in the valleys of the larger rivers,as these are important ecological corridors and migration routes;or near to the boundary of the region, where there tends to be lessinfrastructure and a lower human-population density.

Although the European part is relatively small compared to thewhole of Russia, this territory is still vast compared to the rest ofEurope, and there are thus many potential IBAs whose importancemight be confirmed in the future, once more field surveys havebeen carried out. A ‘shadow’ list of such potential IBAs (totalling151 sites) is presented in Box 2 (at the end of this overview). Field

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Map 1. Location, area and criteria category of Important Bird Areas in European Russia (no IBAs were identified in Franz Josef Land).

21

7

12

9

10

6

11

8

3

5

20

4

58

17

54

44 42

14

49

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48 45

41

15

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28

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16

22

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5147

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13

99101

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184186

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183185

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5968

104100

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887062

188110

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98102 10390

97918689

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77129

9492 138

133

123

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134118

117115

116 124

113

114

8396

81

78 80

79

69

164

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162167

125

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154159

158155

151

156160

163

145

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157142

144147

146

140141 143

169

168

153

161

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172176

177 171

174

178148

181

149 180

182

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173175

194112

196

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195111

205 207

136

215

127

132128

213214

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139

135137

130

126

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191192

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20140 200

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38

29

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34

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25

26

12

121

BELARUS

UKRAINE

GEORGIAAZER-

BAIJAN

KAZAKHSTAN

CASPIANSEA

BLACKSEA

POLAND

FINLAND

ARCTICOCEAN

NORWAY

ESTONIA

LATVIA

LITHUANIA

BALTICSEA

Area of IBA (ha)

A (188 IBAs)

B (30 IBAs)

Highest category ofcriteria met by IBA

20 to 8,131(and unknown)

8,132 to 23,999

24,000 to 65,599

65,600 to 1,926,489

km

0 1000500

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Table 1. Summary of Important Bird Areas in European Russia. 218 IBAs covering 174,519 km2

IBA 1989code code International name National name Administrative region Area (ha) Criteria (see p. 11)

001 — Nemanski forest Nemansky Les Kaliningrad 17,000 B2

002 — Dal’ni forest Les Dal’ni Kaliningrad 4,000 A1

003 SU128 Ainov islands Ainovy Ostrova Murmansk 290 A4i, B1i, B3

004 SU129 Sem islands Sem Ostrovov Murmansk 10,667 A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

005 SU130 Coastal belt of eastern Murmansk Vostochnoye poberezh’ye Murmana Murmansk 260 A4i, B1i

006 SU132 Watershed of the Rivers Strelna and Mezhdurech’ye rek Strelna i Varzuga Murmansk 250,000 B1iVarzuga

007 SU133 Middle reaches of the River Ponoy Srednee techeniye reki Ponoy Murmansk 98,600 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2(Zakaznik Ponoyski) (Zakaznik Ponoyski)

008 SU136 Lapland Biosphere Reserve Laplandski Zapovednik Murmansk 278,436 A3, B2, B3

009 SU137 Kandalaksha Bay Kandalakshski Zaliv Murmansk 208,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2

010 — Gavrilovski archipelago Gavrilovski arkhipelag Murmansk 1,500 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3

011 — Surroundings of Kiyesh’yaur lake Okrestnosti ozera Kiyesh’yaur Murmansk 4,000 B2

012 SU138 Lakes of northern Karelia Ozera severnoy Karelii Karelia Republic 1,000,000 A4i, B1i

013 SU141 Kivach Nature Reserve Zapovednik Kivach Karelia Republic 10,880 A3, B2, B3

014 SU142 Olonets plain Olonetskaya ravnina Karelia Republic 18,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

015 — Palinsaari island Ostrov Palinsaari Karelia Republic 100 B1i, B3

016 — Zaonezh’ye Zaonezh’ye Karelia Republic 330,000 A1, A3, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

017 — South-eastern coast of Lake Ladoga Poberezh’ye i ostrova ozera Ladoga Karelia Republic 1,250 A4i, B1i, B2yuzhneye ust’ya reki Olonki

018 SU140 Onega Bay of White Sea Onezhskaya Guba Belogo Morya Arkhangelsk, Karelia Republic 200,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3

019 SU127 Pinezhski Nature Reserve Pinegski Zapovednik Arkhangelsk 41,244 A1, B2

020 SU139 Solovetski Archipelago Solovetskiye ostrova Arkhangelsk 34,700 A1, A4i, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3

021 — Torna–Shoina watershed Mezhdurech’e Torny i Shoiny Arkhangelsk 15,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

022 — Delta of River Severnaya Dvina Delta Severnoy Dviny Arkhangelsk 50,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i

023 — Lake Lacha Ozero Lacha Arkhangelsk 53,500 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

024 — Kenozer ’ye Kenozer ’ye Arkhangelsk 180,000 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

025 — Bezymyannaya and Gribovaya Bays Guba Bezymyannaya i Gribovaya Arkhangelsk 140,000 A1, A4i, A4ii, B1i, B1ii, B3and adjoining waters

026 — Arkhangelskaya Bay Guba Arkhangelskaya Arkhangelsk 1,000 A4ii, B1ii

027 — Kargopol’ area Kargopol’skaya sush’ Arkhangelsk 175,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2028 — Vodlozero Vodlozero Arkhangelsk, Karelia Republic 200,000 A1, B2

029 SU119 Vashutkiny, Padimeyskiye and Vashutkiny, Padimeyskiye i Khargeyskiye Arkhangelsk, Nenetski 25,000 A4i, A4iii, B1iKhargeyskiye lakes Ozera

030 SU120 Vaygach island Ostrov Vaygach Arkhangelsk, Nenetski 340,000 A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

031 SU122 Varandeyskaya Lapta peninsula Poluostrov Varandeyskaya Lapta Arkhangelsk, Nenetski 350,000 A4iii

032 SU123 River Chernaya Reka Chernaya Arkhangelsk, Nenetski 200,000 A4iii

033 SU125 Southern coast of Cheshskaya Bay Yuzhnoe poberezh’ye Cheshskoy Guby Arkhangelsk, Nenetski — B1i

034 SU126 Kanin peninsula Poluostrov Kanin Arkhangelsk, Nenetski 500,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i

035 SU121 Khaypudyrskaya Bay (islands of Khaypudyrskaya Guba, ostrova Nenetski 20,600 A4i, A4iii, B1iB. Zelenets, Dolgi, Matveyev) B. Zelenets, Dolgi, Matveyev

036 SU124 Russki Zavorot peninsula Poluostrov Russki Zavorot Nenetski 299,000 A3, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

037 — Middle reaches of Bolshaya Rogovaya Sredneye techeniye reki Bolshaya Nenetski 35,000 A1, A3, B2river Rogovaya

038 SU118 Pechoro-Ilychski Nature Reserve Pechoro-Ilychski Zapovednik Komi Republic 705,500 A1, B2

039 — Yugyd Va Yugyd Va Komi Republic 1,926,489 A1, A3, B1i, B2

040 — Valley of Sysola river Dolina reki Sysoly Komi Republic 110,000 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2

041 SU143 Kilpola island and adjoining waters Kilpola Ostrov i prilegayushchaya Karelia Republic 30,000 B1iakvatoria

042 SU144 Mouth of Svir river Ust’ye reki Svir Leningrad 65,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3043 SU145 Rakovye lakes Rakovye Ozera Leningrad 9,700 A1, A4iii, B1i

044 SU146 Berezovye islands of Vyborg Bay Berezovye ostrova, Vyborgski Zaliv Leningrad 12,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i

045 SU147 Koporski Bay Koporskaya Guba Leningrad 6,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3

046 SU148 Lake Vyalye and adjoining marshes Ozero Vyal’ye i prilegayushchiye bolota Leningrad 20,000 B1i

047 SU151 Narva reservoir Narvskoye Vodokhranilishche Leningrad 20,000 A4iii

048 — Kurgalski peninsula Kurgalski Poluostrov Leningrad 27,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i

049 — Swans area (southern shore of Finski Bay) Lebyazh’ye Leningrad 6,400 A4i, A4iii, B1i

050 SU152 Chudsko-Pskovski lake and adjacent Pskovsk-Chudskoye Ozero i okrestnosti Pskov 251,400 A1, A4i, A4iii, A4iv, B1i, B1ivareas

051 SU150 Lake Ilmen’ and adjoining marshy plain Ozero Ilmen’ i okrestnosti Novgorod 250,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

052 — Pereluchski Nature Reserve Pereluchski Zakaznik Novgorod 6,425 A1, B2053 — Flood-plain of Volkhov river Volkhovskaya poima Novgorod 17,650 A1, A4i, B1i

054 — Redrovski Nature Reserve Redrovski Zakaznik Novgorod 16,850 A1

055 SU149 Sources of the River Luga Verkhov’ya reki Luga Novgorod, Leningrad 49,600 A1, B1i

056 — Polisto-Lovatskaya mire system Polisto-Lovatskaya bolotnaya systema Novgorod, Pskov 110,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

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Table 1 ... continued. Summary of Important Bird Areas in European Russia. 218 IBAs covering 174,519 km2


057 — Sizemski flood-plain of Sheksna reservoir Sizemski razliv Sheksninskogo Vologda 60,000 A1, B2vodokhranilische

058 SU114 Rybinsk reservoir Rybinskoye vodokhranilishche Vologda, Yaroslavl’ 455,000 A1, B1i, B2

059 SU104 Uglichskoy reservoir Uglichskoe vodokhranilishche Tver, Yaroslavl’ 10,000 B1i060 SU113 Central Forest Biosphere Reserve and Tsentralno-Lesnoi Zapovednik Tver 63,680 A1, B1i

adjacent areas i okrestnosti

061 — Sources of Osuga river Verkhov’ya reki Osugi Tver 5,100 A1062 — Budnyanski mire Budnyanski Mokh Tver 3,156 B1i, B2

063 — Stakhovski marshes Stakhovski Mokh Tver 10,296 A1, B1i064 — Upper Mologa river (Verestovo lake) Verkhov’ye reki Mologi (Ozero Verestovo) Tver 17,000 A1, B1i, B2

065 — Savtsinskoye marsh Boloto “Savtsinskoye” Tver 4,569 B1i, B2066 — Orshinski marshes Boloto “Orshinski mokh” Tver 43,200 B1i

067 — Flood-plain of Kotorosl’ and Ust’e rivers Poima rek Ust’e i Kotorosl’ Yaroslavl’ 4,200 A1, A4i, B1i068 — Flood-plain of Kostroma river Kostromskiye razlivy Yaroslavl’, Kostroma 55,125 A4iii, B1i

069 — Smolenskoye Pohozer’ye Smolenskoye Pohozer’ye Smolensk 146,161 A1, B2070 SU103 Faustovo flood-plains of Moscow river Faustovskoye rashireniye poimy Moscow 9,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

reki Moskvy

071 SU105 Homeland of the Crane (Dubna marshes Zhuravlinaya Rodina (Dubnenski Moscow 38,500 A1, B1iand adjacent areas) bolotny massiv i okrestnosti)

072 — Lotoshino crane gathering Lotoshinskoye zhuravlinoye skopleniye Moscow, Tver 28,200 B1i

073 — Danilovskoye marshes Danilovskoye boloto Moscow 400 B2074 — Dedinivo flood-plain of Oka river Dedinovskaya poima reki Oki Moscow 23,120 A1, A4iii, B1i, B2

075 SU107 Zavidovo Nature Reserve, including Zavidovski Zapovednik, Lotoshinski Moscow, Tver 133,800 A1, A4i, B1i, B2Lotoshinski, Klinski and Diatlovo i Klinski rybkhozyfish-ponds

076 — Central Meshchera lake-system Tsentral’no-Meshcherskaya ozernaya Moscow, Vladimir, Ryazan’ 92,700 A1, B3sistema

077 — Nerussa–Desna woodland Nerusso-Desnyanskoe Poles’ye Bryansk 220,000 A1, B2, B3078 — Flood-plain of Iput’ river in vicinity of Poima Iputi mezhdu Krutoyar i Krasnoe Bryansk 4,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i

Krutoayr

079 — Flood-plain of Iput’ river in vicinity of Poima Iputi mezhdu rekoy Unich’ i Bryansk 6,800 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2Kholevichami Kholevicham

080 — Kletnyanski forest Kletnyanski Les Bryansk 38,100 B2081 — Desna flood-plain near Trubchevsk Poima Desny mezhdu Trubchevskom i Bryansk 17,200 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

Beloy Berezkoy082 — Gavan’skiye oak-forest Gavan’skiye Dubravy Bryansk 3,000 A1, B3083 — Kaluzhskiye Zaseki Nature Reserve Kaluzhskiye Zaseki Kaluga 44,613 A1, B2, B3084 SU101 Oka River Valley Biosphere Reserve Okski Zapovednik Ryazan’ 55,731 A1085 — Valley complex of Moksha and Oka rivers Dolinny Complex levoberezh’ya reki Oki Ryazan’ 22,400 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i086 — Shilovo flood-plain of Oka river Shilovskaya poima Oki Ryazan’ 22,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i087 — Izhevsk flood-plain of Oka river Izhevskaya poima Oki Ryazan’ 30,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i088 — Solotcha flood-plain of Oka river Solotchinskaya poima Oki Ryazan’ 12,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i089 — Oka valley in vicinity of Murmino Poima Oki v okrestnostyakh Murmino Ryazan’ 8,400 A4iii, B1i090 — Watershed of Tsna and Vysha rivers Urochische Lepen’ (mezhdurech’ye Tsny Ryazan’ 16,000 A1

i Vyshy)091 — Terekhovski oak-forest Terekhovskaya poimennaya Dubrava Ryazan’ 5,000 A1092 — Kulikovski forest Kulikovski Les Lipetsk 18,500 A1093 — Upper Voronezh forest Verkhnevoronezhski lesnoy massiv Lipetsk, Tambov 92,800 A1, B2094 — Watershed of Bityug and Tsna rivers Bityugo-Tsninski Tambov 80,000 A1, A4i, B1i095 — Zavoronezhski area Zavoronezhski bolotno-polevoy uchastok Tambov 48,000 A1, A4i, B1i096 — Voroninski Nature Reserve Voroninski Zapovednik Tambov 10,320 A1, B1i097 — Tsninski forest Tsninski Lesnoy massiv Tambov 100,000 A1, B1i, B2098 SU095 Flood-plain of Sura river Poima reki Sura, Mordovia Mordovia Republic 40,000 A4iii, B1i, B2, B3099 SU096 Mordovian P. G. Smidovich Nature Mordovski Zapovednik Mordovia Republic 32,200 A1, B2

Reserve

100 SU097 Moksha valley in vicinity of Temnikov Moksha Dolina v okrestnostyakh Mordovia Republic 28,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2Temnikova

101 — Ichalkovski Ichalkovski Mordovia Republic 10,000 A1, B2102 — Flood-plain of Vad river Poima reki Vad Mordovia Republic 65,600 A1, B2, B3103 — Insaro-Kovylkinski Insaro-Kovylkinsk Mordovia Republic 22,800 B2, B3104 — Moksha flood-plain in vicinity of Poima Mokshy v okrestnostyakh Mordovia Republic 32,400 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

Krasnoslobodsk Krasnoslobodska105 — Flood-plain of Alatyr’ river in vicinity Poima reki Alatyr’ v okrestnostyakh Mordovia Republic 38,000 A1, B2

of Ardatov Ardatova

106 — Surski reservoir Surskoye vodokhranilische Penza 11,000 A1, B1i107 — Bekovskoye forest Bekovskoye Lesnichestvo (Serdobski Penza 8,000 A1

Leskhoz)

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108 — Kuznetski forest Kuznetski Leskhoz Penza 40,000 A1, B2109 — Sengileyevskiye mountain Sengileyevskiye Gory Ul’yanovsk 22,400 A1

110 SU093 Watershed of Sura and Barysh rivers Mezhdurech’ye Sury i Barysha Ul’yanovsk 16,500 A1, B1i, B2111 — Privolzhskaya forest-steppe Privolzhskaya Lesostep’ Ul’yanovsk 15,000 A1, B2

112 — Cheremshanski Bay of Kuybyshev Cheremshanski Zaliv Kuybyshevskogo Ul’yanovsk 63,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2reservoir vodokhranilischa

113 SU099 Khoper Nature Reserve Khoperski Zapovednik Voronezh 16,178 A1

114 — Flood-plain of Khoper river near Lake Ilmen’ Poima reki Khoper u ozera Ilmen’ Voronezh 4,000 A1115 — Khrenovskoy forest Khrenovskoy Bor Voronezh 35,000 A1, B2

116 — Bereznyakovski forest Bereznyakovski lesnoy massiv Voronezh 13,200 A1117 — Voronezhski Nature Reserve Voronezhski Zapovednik Voronezh, Lipetsk 31,053 A1, B2

118 — Vorono-Khoperski area Vorono-Khopoerski Voronezh, Tambov, Saratov 22,000 A1, A4i, B1i119 — Levo-Dobrinskaya valley Levo-Dobrinskaya Dolina Volgograd 3,000 A1, B2

120 — Lake El’ton Ozero El’ton Volgograd 30,000 A1, A4i, B1i

121 — Novokvasnikovski liman Novokvasnikovski Liman Volgograd 300 A1

122 — Kalachinskaya loop of River Don Kalachinskaya izluchina Dona Volgograd 60,000 A1, B2

123 — Danilovski forest Danilovski Bor Volgograd 10,000 A1, B2

124 — Rubezhnoye forest Urochishche Rubezhnoye Volgograd 5,000 A1, B2

125 — Akhtubinsk wetland Akhtubinskoye Poozer ’ye Volgograd 138,000 A1, A4iii, B2126 SU092 Vicinity of Borisoglebovka (Saratovski Okrestnosti Borisoglebovki (Saratovski Saratov 35,000 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2

[Semenovski] Zakaznik) [Semenovski] Zakaznik)

127 — Valley of Safarovka river Dolina reki Safarovki Saratov 2,500 A1

128 — Siniye mountains Siniye Gory Saratov 15,000 A1, B2

129 — Priyeruslanskiye sands Priyeruslanskiye Peski Saratov 20,000 A1, B2

130 — Varfolomeyevskiye saltmarshes Varfolomeyevskiye Limany Saratov 2,800 A1, A4i, B1i

131 — North part of Volgogradski reservoir Severnaya zona Volgogradskogo Saratov 74,250 A1, A4i, B1i, B2vodokhranilis

132 — Vicinity of Voznesenka village Okrestnosti sela Voznesenka Saratov 1,200 A1

133 — Sokino Sokino Saratov 30,330 A1134 — Almazovski area Almazovski Zakaznik Saratov 4,500 B2

135 — Algaiski Algaiski Saratov 13,000 A1, A3, B2

136 — Khvalynski National Park Khvalynski Natsional’ny Park Saratov 25,514 A1, B2

137 — Rovno area Rovenski Saratov 8,220 A1

138 — Stepan Rasin rock Utes Stepana Rasina Saratov 35,050 A1, B2

139 — Rzhestyanka Rzhestyanka Saratov 8,000 A1, A3

140 SU059 Veselovskoye reservoir Veselovskoye Vodokhranilishche Rostov 230,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

141 — Delta of the River Don Delta Dona Rostov 53,800 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1iv, B2

142 — Beglitskaya sand-spit Beglitskaya Kosa Rostov 1,414 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i

143 — Islands in the western part of Lake Ostrove v zapadnoy chasti ozera Rostov 19,200 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3Manych-Gudilo Manych-Gudilo

144 — Karaichevski forest Karaichevskaya Lesnaya Dacha Rostov 5,000 B2

145 — Secretevskiye sands (Oblivski forest) Urochishche Secretivskiye Peski Rostov 3,000 B2(Oblivski Leskhoz)

146 — Kalitvenski forest Kalitvenskoye Lesnichestvo, Donetski Rostov 1,200 B2Leskhoz

147 — Gorodishchenski forest Gorodishchenskaya Lesnaya Dacha Rostov 3,000 B2

148 SU085 Chistaya Banka and Ivan-Karaul islands Ostrova Chistaya Banka i Ivan-Karaul Kalmykiya Republic — A4i, A4iii, B1i

149 — Uttinskaya area Uttinskaya Kalmykiya Republic 98,000 A1, B2

150 SU057 Salt-lakes in the Primorsko-Akhtarsk area Primorsko-Akhtarskaya sistema limanov Krasnodarski kray 40,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3151 — Eastern coast of the Sea of Azov Vostochnoe poberezh’ye Azovskogo morya Krasnodarski kray 457,300 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

152 — Kiziltash limans Kiziltashskiye Limany Krasnodarski kray 28,000 A4i, B1i, B2, B3

153 — Lower Urushtek river Nizov’e reki Urushtek Krasnodarski kray 1,764 B2, B3

154 — Akhmet–Skala ridge Khrebet Akhmet-Skala Krasnodarski kray 2,300 B2

155 — Kurdzhips river valley Dolina reki Kurdzhips Krasnodarski kray 10,230 B2

156 — Lake Khanskoye Ozero Khanskoye Krasnodarski kray 8,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

157 — Yeyski salt-lakes Yeyski Liman Krasnodarski kray 24,000 A4i, B1i, B2, B3

158 — Surroundings of Black Forest Okrestnosti Chernogo Lesa Krasnodarski kray 20 A4i, B1i, B2

159 — Kalininski Plavny Kalininskiye Plavny Krasnodarski kray 3,000 A4i, B1i, B2

160 — Mouth of Yeya river Ust’ye reki Yeya Krasnodarski kray 9,600 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

161 — Imeretinskaya lowland Imeretinskaya nizmennost’ Krasnodarski kray 1,500 A1

162 — Valley of Urup river Dolina reki Urup Krasnodarski kray, 8,132 B2, B3Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya Republic

163 SU058 Caucasus Biosphere Reserve Kavkazski Biospherny Zapovednik Krasnodarski kray, Stavropolski kray, 280,338 A1, A2, A3, B1iv, B2Adygeya Republic

164 — Dadynskiye lake Dadynskiye ozero Stavropolski kray 45,000 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

586




165 SU060 Lake Manych-Gudilo Ozero Manych Gudilo Stavropolski kray, Kalmykiya Republic 50,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3166 SU061 Burukshunskiye limans Burukshunskiye Limany Stavropolski kray, Kalmykiya Republic 6,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

167 SU062 Teberdinski Nature Reserve Teberdinski Zapovednik Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya Republic 84,996 A1, A2, A3, B1iv, B2168 SU063 Kabardino-Balkarski Nature Reserve Kabardino-Balkarski Zapovednik Kabardino-Balkarskaya Republic 74,099 B2

169 SU072 Severo-Osetinski (North Osetin) Nature Severo-Osetinski Zapovednik Severnaya Osetiya Republic 28,999 B2Reserve

170 SU083 Budary lakes Budarskiye Ozera Chechenskaya Republic 1,000 B1i

171 SU082 Agrakhanski Bay Agrakhanski Zaliv Dagestan Republic 39,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2172 SU084 Kizlyar Bay Kizlyarski Zaliv Dagestan Republic 19,061 A1, A4i, B1i

173 — Mouth of Samur river Ust’e reki Samur Dagestan Republic 7,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3174 — Lake Adzhi Ozero Adzhi Dagestan Republic 2,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

175 — Sources of Mazachai and Mullarchai rivers Verkhov’ya rek Mazachai i Mullarchai Dagestan Republic 10,000 A1, A3, B2176 — Karakol’skiye lakes Karakol’skiye ozera Dagestan Republic 10,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2

177 — Achikol’skiye lakes Achikol’skiye Ozera Dagestan Republic 20,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2178 SU087 Morskoy Biryuchek island Ostrov Morskoy Biryuchek Dagestan Republic, 30,000 A4i, B1i

Kalmykiya Republic

179 SU086 Volga delta Delta Volgi Astrakhan 1,150,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3180 — Western Ilmen area Zapadnye podstepnye ilmeni Astrakhan 590,000 A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2

181 — Maly Zhemchuzhny island Maly Zhemchuzhny Ostrov Astrakhan 35 A4i, B1i, B2182 — Bogdinsko-Baskunchakski Bogdinsko-Baskunchakski Astrakhan 70,000 A1, A3, B2

183 SU116 Flood-plain of River Vetluga Poima reki Vetlugi Kostroma — B1i184 — Kamsko-Bakaldinskiye marshes Kamsko-Bakaldinskiye Bolota Nizhni Novgorod 120,000 B1i

185 — Sitnikovski Nature Reserve Sitnikovski Zakaznik Nizhni Novgorod 2,117 A4i, B1i, B2186 SU115 Gorki reservoir and the lower Unzha Gorkovskoye Vodokhranilishche i Ivanovo, Nizhni Novgorod, 72,100 B1i

river nizov’ya reki Unzha Kostroma

187 SU094 Flood-plain of Algashka river Poima reki Algashki Chuvashskaya Republic 400 A1, A4iii, B1i188 — Sura environs Prisur’ye Chuvashskaya Republic 44,000 A1, B1i, B2

189 — Arski fish-ponds Arski rybkhoz Tatarstan Republic 1,000 A1, B1i190 — Kamsko-Ikski area Kamsko-Ikski Tatarstan Republic 100,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

191 — Bulgarski Bulgarski Tatarstan Republic 25,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2192 — Cheremshanski forest Cheremshanski Les Tatarstan Republic, Ul’yanovsk 100,000 A1, B2

193 SU091 Zhigulevsk Nature Reserve Zhigulevski Zapovednik Samara 23,140 A1, B2, B3194 — Tashlinski forest Tashlinski Les Samara 1,000 A1, B2

195 — Racheyski forest Racheyski Bor Samara 40,100 A1, B2, B3196 — Suskanski Nature Reserve Suskanski Zakaznik Samara 40,500 A1, A4i, B1i

197 — Buzulukski forest Buzulukski Bor Samara, Orenburg 111,210 A1, B2, B3198 — Kamsko-Yayvenski wetland Kamsko-Yayvenski vodno-bolotny complex Perm 35,000 A1, B2

199 — Verkhnevisherski mountain Verkhnevisherski Gorny massiv Perm 180,000 A3, B2, B3200 — Kumikushski wetland Kumikushski vodno-bolotny complex Perm 80,000 A1, A3, A4iii

201 — Adovo-Chugrumski wetland Adovo-Chugrumski vodno-bolotny Perm 21,000 A1, A3, B2complex

202 — Khvarkush and Zolotoy Kamen’ ridges Khrebet Kvarkush i Zolotoy Kamen’ Perm 130,000 A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3

203 — Nizhnekamskaya flood-plain Nizhnekamskaya poima Perm, Udmurtia Republic 8,000 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2204 SU090 Bashkirski Nature Reserve Bashkirski Zapovednik Bashkortostan Republic 49,609 A1, B2

205 — Octyabr’ski forest Octyabr’ski Lesnoi massiv Bashkortostan Republic 50,000 A1, B2206 — Mountain valley of Sakmara river Gornaya Dolina reki Sakmary Bashkortostan Republic 5,000 A1, B2

207 — Nikiforovski forest Nikiforovski Lesnoi massiv Bashkortostan Republic 20,000 A1, B2208 — Watershed of Bel’skaya and Nugush rivers Bel’sko-Nugushskoe Mezhdurech’ye Bashkortostan Republic 150,000 A1, B2

209 — Bel’skaya flood-plain Bel’skaya poima Bashkortostan Republic 42,800 A1, A4i, B1i, B2210 — Yamantau mountain Gorny massiv Yamantau Bashkortostan Republic 120,000 A1, A3, B2

211 — Iremel’ski mountain Iremel’ski gorny massiv Bashkortostan Republic, 90,000 A1, A3, B2Chelyabinsk

212 — Irendyk ridge Khrebet Irendyk Bashkortostan Republic 150,000 A1, A4i, A4iv, B1i, B1iv, B2

213 — Maly Nakas ridge Khrebet Maly Nakas Bashkortostan Republic, 50,000 A1, B2Orenburg

214 — Steppe valley of Sakmara river Stepnaya Dolina reki Sakmary Orenburg 75,000 A1, B2

215 — Kupy area Urochishche Kupy Orenburg 2,000 A4iii, B1i216 — Kulaksay lowland Nizina Kulaksay Orenburg 5,000 A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2

217 — Shalkaro-Zhetykolski lake system Shalkaro-Zhelykolski Ozerny Rayon Orenburg 81,250 A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2218 — Orenburgski Nature Reserve Orenburgski Zapovednik Orenburg 21,600 A1, A3, B2

Sites identified in the previous inventory of IBAs in Europe (Grimmett and Jones 1989) but no longer considered to be IBAsSU098 Okskaya Dolina (Oka Valley), Ryazan Oblast; SU100 Les Na Vorskle, Belgorod Oblast; SU102 Prioksko – Terrasny, Serpukhov, Moskovskaya Oblast; SU106 Moskovskoye Morye, Konakovo,Kalinin Oblast; SU108 Prof. V.V. Alekhin Tsentralno-Chernozemny (Central Black Earth) Biosphere Reserve, Kursk and Belgorod Oblasts; SU109 Galichya Gora, Lipetsk Oblast; SU110* OsveyskoyeOzero (Lake Osveyskoye), Verkhnedvinsk, “Belorussia Oblast”; SU117 Votkinskoye Vodokhranilishche (Votkinskoye Reservoir), Perm Oblast; SU131 Watershed of the Rivers Lumbovka and Ponoy Reka,Lovozero, Murmansk Oblast; SU134 Chalmny-Varre, Lovozero, Murmansk Oblast; SU135 Watershed of the Rivers Iokanga and Ponoy Reka, Lovozero, Murmansk Oblast.* Mistakenly treated as part of RSFSR in the previous inventory of IBAs in Europe (Grimmett and Jones 1989).

587


Species IBA codePhalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 171, 172, 173, 174, 176, 177, 179Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 143, 150, 151, 156, 164, 165, 166, 171, 172,

173, 174, 176, 177, 179, 217Anser erythropus 019, 021, 027, 037, 040, 042, 045, 051, 055,

Lesser White-fronted Goose 060, 067, 141, 164, 165, 173, 189, 190, 191,216, 217

Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose 094, 100, 104, 118, 140, 141, 143, 164, 165,216, 217

Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 141, 164, 173, 174, 177, 179Polysticta stelleri Steller’s Eider 010, 020, 025Oxyura leucocephala White-headed Duck 164Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle 007, 009, 020, 024, 028, 038, 039, 042, 045,

057, 058, 075, 106, 112, 113, 114, 122, 124,125, 131, 136, 140, 141, 149, 163, 177, 179,182, 191, 193, 196, 198, 200, 203

Aegypius monachus Cinereous Vulture 149, 175Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier 128, 135, 173, 209, 212, 213, 216, 217Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle 050, 053, 054, 069, 071, 074, 075, 076, 077,

082, 084, 091, 093, 097, 099, 102, 107, 110,115, 117, 133, 173, 179, 198, 202, 208, 209

Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 093, 101, 105, 108, 109, 111, 113, 115, 117,119, 122, 123, 128, 136, 138, 167, 182, 188,192, 194, 197, 205, 206, 207, 208, 210, 211,214, 218

Species Season IBA code

Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver B 016, 024, 036P 044, 048

Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe B 141Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 141

P 044Podiceps nigricollis B 141

Black-necked GrebePhalacrocorax carbo Cormorant R 152

B 141, 156, 179P 171, 172N 164, 181

Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 179Pygmy Cormorant P 174

Pelecanus onocrotalus N 164White Pelican

Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican R 177B 143, 150, 151, 156, 164, 165, 171, 176, 179,

217P 172, 173, 174N 166

Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 159, 179Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 179Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 140, 143, 158, 159, 179

N 141Egretta alba Great White Egret R 177

B 140, 150, 179, 180P 166, 172, 173N 078, 141

Ardea cinerea Grey Heron B 179P 141

Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 140, 151, 158, 159, 166, 179Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 140, 143, 150, 151, 164, 165, 166, 179, 180

P 173Cygnus olor Mute Swan R 164

B 179, 180P 140, 178N 141, 165

Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan B 030, 034, 036P 022, 044, 045, 048, 049

Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan B 006, 012W 179P 016, 023, 024, 035, 042, 044, 045, 048, 049,

140, 141, 151N 006, 007


Anser fabalis Bean Goose B 030, 036P 014, 016, 022, 023, 027, 035, 042, 055, 068,

078, 079, 094, 095, 112, 118N 029

Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose B 030, 036P 014, 022, 023, 027, 035, 046, 058, 062, 063,

064, 065, 066, 067, 068, 070, 074, 078, 079,081, 085, 086, 087, 088, 089, 094, 095, 098,100, 104, 112, 118, 164, 165, 217

Anser erythropus P 021, 027, 040, 060, 164, 165, 189, 191, 216,Lesser White-fronted Goose 217

Anser anser Greylag Goose R 177B 012, 140, 141, 166, 179, 180, 190, 217W 140P 064, 065, 066, 074, 075, 085, 086, 087, 088,

089, 094, 095, 096, 097, 098, 100, 104, 118,140, 141, 143, 152, 166, 187, 188, 189, 191,196

N 140, 180, 217Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose B 021, 030

P 014, 021, 022, 034, 044Branta bernicla Brent Goose P 021, 022, 044Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 100, 104, 118, 140, 143, 164, 165, 216, 217Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck R 165

B 180N 164

Tadorna tadorna Shelduck B 180N 165

Anas penelope Wigeon B 045P 106, 187, 191, 215

Anas strepera Gadwall B 190P 172, 190

Anas crecca Teal B 045, 190P 166, 190, 191N 180

Anas platyrhynchos Mallard B 179, 190W 140P 106, 141, 166, 190

Anas acuta Pintail B 021, 036, 045W 178

Anas querquedula Garganey P 141, 190Anas clypeata Shoveler B 058, 190

P 190N 023

Table 2. Important Bird Areas in European Russia that are important for species of global conservation concern (meeting criterion A1).

Species IBA codeFalco naumanni Lesser Kestrel 105, 141, 142, 164, 212, 216Tetrao mlokosiewiczi 163, 167, 175

Caucasian Black GrouseCrex crex Corncrake 002, 014, 016, 023, 024, 027, 040, 042, 043,

050, 051, 052, 053, 054, 055, 056, 060, 061,063, 064, 069, 070, 074, 075, 076, 077, 079,081, 083, 084, 085, 086, 087, 088, 090, 092,093, 094, 095, 096, 097, 099, 100, 101, 104,105, 110, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 131,141, 161, 163, 187, 188, 193, 195, 197, 198,200, 203, 204, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213

Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard 120, 127, 129, 135, 137, 139, 149, 164, 173,174, 218

Otis tarda Great Bustard 118, 126, 127, 128, 132, 137, 139, 164Glareola nordmanni 121, 126, 127, 130, 141, 142, 143, 150, 160,

Black-winged Pratincole 164, 212, 217Gallinago media Great Snipe 039, 040, 042, 051, 052, 053, 063, 064, 070,

074, 075, 076, 087, 088, 090, 093, 102, 131,141, 191, 198, 200, 201, 202, 203, 209, 210,211, 212

Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic Warbler 198, 203, 209

Table 3. Important Bird Areas in European Russia that support important numbers of one or more congregatory species (i.e. meetingcriteria A4 and/or B1). IBAs meeting both criteria A4 and B1 for the species are shown in bold. IBAs meeting only criterion B1 for thespecies concerned, and not A4, are shown in normal type. For key to ‘Season’, see p. 7 .

588



Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 160, 177, 179P 141, 172

Aythya ferina Pochard B 190P 141, 166, 190

Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 179Aythya fuligula Tufted Duck P 044, 187Aythya marila Scaup B 021, 036

P 044, 045, 190, 191Somateria mollissima Eider R 010

B 004, 009W 005, 018P 035N 009

Somateria spectabilis King Eider B 036W 005P 035

Polysticta stelleri Steller’s Eider W 010N 020, 025

Clangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck B 030P 044

Melanitta nigra Common Scoter P 042, 044, 045Melanitta fusca Velvet Scoter P 044Bucephala clangula Goldeneye B 036, 045

P 024, 044, 068N 009, 050

Mergus serrator B 016Red-breasted Merganser P 044, 048

Mergus merganser Goosander B 030P 044, 048

Fulica atra Coot R 177B 179, 180P 166, 174N 050

Grus grus Crane B 016, 043, 056, 184P 016, 027, 071, 072, 095, 110, 120, 209

Himantopus himantopus B 141, 143, 150, 151, 152, 164Black-winged Stilt P 141

Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 150, 151, 152Glareola pratincola B 150, 160, 165

Collared Pratincole P 141Glareola nordmanni B 126, 130, 164, 217

Black-winged Pratincole P 141N 143

Charadrius alexandrinus P 120Kentish Plover

Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover P 016, 086Vanellus vanellus Lapwing P 016, 196Calidris maritima Purple Sandpiper P 003Philomachus pugnax Ruff P 166Gallinago media Great Snipe B 039, 051, 053, 087, 088, 202, 212

P 131, 141


Numenius arquata Curlew B 016, 056P 016

Tringa totanus Redshank B 150Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 040

P 024Actitis hypoleucos B 016

Common Sandpiper P 016Arenaria interpres Turnstone B 018Stercorarius parasiticus Arctic Skua B 018Larus ichthyaetus B 148, 151, 152, 164, 165, 181

Great Black-headed Gull P 141, 142Larus minutus Little Gull B 017, 023, 045, 203

P 141, 142, 173Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull R 185

P 044, 141, 142Larus genei Slender-billed Gull B 143, 165

P 141, 142Larus canus Common Gull R 185

B 016, 018P 027, 044, 048

Larus fuscus B 018, 045Lesser Black-backed Gull P 044, 048

Larus argentatus Herring Gull B 018P 044, 048

Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 152, 156, 157, 164, 165, 181P 141, 142

Larus marinus B 003Great Black-backed Gull P 048

Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 143, 152, 164, 165P 173N 141

Sterna caspia Caspian Tern B 015, 152, 156, 181N 141

Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern R 152B 157, 181

Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 016, 152, 156, 157P 141, 142, 190

Sterna paradisaea Arctic Tern B 020Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 045, 075, 150, 152, 203

P 141, 142, 190, 191Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 160, 165

P 141Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 075

P 141Chlidonias leucopterus B 203

White-winged Black Tern P 141, 173Uria lomvia Brünnich’s Guillemot B 025, 026Alca torda Razorbill B 010Cepphus grylle Black Guillemot B 009, 010, 025

R 020

surveys in 1998 (after the current IBA review was completed) haveshown that at least 73 (48%) of these sites appear to meet IBAcriteria. However, this shadow list is still bound to be incompletesince there are, even now, vast areas of European Russia that havenever been ornithologically explored.

ORNITHOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE

There are 196 species of European conservation concern (SPECs)which breed regularly in European Russia (Tucker and Heath 1994).Twelve of them are globally threatened: Pelecanus crispus, Ansererythropus, Aythya nyroca, Polysticta stelleri, Oxyura leucocephala,Aquila clanga, Aquila heliaca, Falco naumanni, Crex crex, Otis tarda,Chettusia gregaria and Acrocephalus paludicola. The sites that holdsignificant numbers of these and eight other species of globalconservation concern are listed in Table 2. Apart from these 20species, a further 116 SPECs in Russia also have an unfavourableconservation status in Europe (Tucker and Heath 1994).

There are several endemic or restricted-range species in EuropeanRussia, most of which occur in the Caucasus Endemic Bird Area(EBA 122, one of only three EBAs in Europe: Stattersfield et al.1998), for instance Tetrao mlokosiewiczi, Tetraogallus caucasicus,Tetraogallus caspius, Prunella ocularis, Phylloscopus lorenzii (formerlyP. sindianus) and Sitta krueperi. Of the 47 species in Europe that arerestricted to either the boreal biome or the Arctic/tundra biome,(when breeding) the majority of Arctic/tundra species and all of theboreal species breed regularly in European Russia. However, thesespecies usually occur at relatively low densities, most being highlydispersed across these vast zones, and thus it is sometimes verydifficult or impossible to identify particular IBAs for these biome-restricted species. It is easier to identify IBAs in highly developedregions, where suitable habitats are more scarce.

Table 1 lists the criteria under which IBAs in European Russiawere identified, the main ones being importance for species of globalconservation concern (meeting the A1 criterion; 152 sites), for speciesof European conservation concern (meeting B2/B3; 144 sites), andfor large congregations of waterbirds or seabirds (A4, B1; 131 sites).

Table 3 ... continued. Important Bird Areas in European Russia that support important numbers of one or more congregatoryspecies (i.e. meeting criteria A4 and/or B1). IBAs meeting both criteria A4 and B1 for the species are shown in bold. IBAs meeting onlycriterion B1 for the species concerned, and not A4, are shown in normal type. For key to ‘Season’, see p. 7.

589


Minimum Proportion (%) of national breeding national population

population breeding at all IBAsSpecies 1 (pairs) 2 in Russia

Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver 100,000 1Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag 1,000 20Phalacrocorax pygmeus Pygmy Cormorant 330 1003

Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican 300 1003

Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican 437 1003

Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron 9,000 61Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron 5,500 24Ardea purpurea Purple Heron 40,000 9Ciconia nigra Black Stork 400 13Ciconia ciconia White Stork 3,500 2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis 10,300 1003

Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill 2,300 69Anser erythropus Lesser White-fronted Goose 500 6Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose 4,000 63Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck 6,000 1003

Anas strepera Gadwall 55,000 2Anas acuta Pintail 150,000 3Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard 5,500 63Aythya ferina Pochard 90,000 1Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck 500 99Mergus albellus Smew 7,000 <1Oxyura leucocephala White-headed Duck 50 8Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle 900 38Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier 40 30Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture 120 6Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture 124 1003

Aegypius monachus Cinereous Vulture 30 7Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier 1,000 14Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk 3,000 2Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard 800 2Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle 300 8Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle 800 10Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle 600 12Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle 500 7Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle 500 8Pandion haliaetus Osprey 2,500 5Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel 70 29Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon 15,000 1Falco cherrug Saker 120 1Falco rusticolus Gyrfalcon 50 24Falco peregrinus Peregrine 1,000 2Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse 100,000 7Tetrao mlokosiewiczi Caucasian Black Grouse 2,515 1003

Tetraogallus caucasicus Caucasian Snowcock 1,540 1003

Coturnix coturnix Quail 100,000 2Porzana porzana Spotted Crake 10,000 3Crex crex Corncrake 1,000,000 1Grus grus Crane 30,000 3Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard 18,000 2Otis tarda Great Bustard 10,000 4Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet 1,730 1003

Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole 1,000 7Glareola nordmanni Black-winged Pratincole 6,500 5Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover 1,000 3Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover 10,000 10Calidris maritima Purple Sandpiper 1,000 1Limicola falcinellus Broad-billed Sandpiper 100 6Gallinago media Great Snipe 150,000 1Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit 10,000 6Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel 10,000 6Tringa totanus Redshank 10,000 35Larus melanocephalus Mediterranean Gull 2,050 1003

Table 4. Species of European conservation concern with significant breeding populations at Important Bird Areas in European Russia(meeting any IBA criteria).

Minimum Proportion (%) of national breeding national population

population breeding at all IBAsSpecies 1 (pairs) 2 in Russia

Larus minutus Little Gull 11,000 17Larus canus Common Gull 40,000 57Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull 2,100 1003

Larus marinus Great Black-backed Gull 8,200 44Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern 1,800 22Sterna caspia Caspian Tern 3,000 45Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern 4,000 44Sterna albifrons Little Tern 5,000 27Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern 10,000 9Chlidonias niger Black Tern 20,000 9Alca torda Razorbill 2,000 33Cepphus grylle Black Guillemot 23,500 7Columba oenas Stock Dove 10,000 3Columba palumbus Woodpigeon 100,000 5Otus scops Scops Owl 20,000 1003

Bubo bubo Eagle Owl 2,000 2Nyctea scandiaca Snowy Owl — National pop unknownStrix aluco Tawny Owl 10,000 5Alcedo atthis Kingfisher 10,000 5Jynx torquilla Wryneck 50,000 4Dendrocopos medius Middle Spotted Woodpecker 1,000 51Picoides tridactylus Three-toed Woodpecker 10,000 35Melanocorypha yeltoniensis Black Lark 6,000 69Calandrella brachydactyla Short-toed Lark 100,000 2Lullula arborea Woodlark 10,000 11Alauda arvensis Skylark 1,000,000 3Riparia riparia Sand Martin 1,000,000 2Anthus pratensis Meadow Pipit 1,000,000 1Prunella atrogularis Black-throated Accentor 1,000 10Luscinia luscinia Thrush Nightingale 100,000 5Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart 100,000 5Saxicola rubetra Whinchat 100,000 10Turdus merula Blackbird 10,000 29Turdus philomelos Song Thrush 100,000 25Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush 10,000 41Locustella fluviatilis River Warbler 100,000 2Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic Warbler 250 14Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler 100,000 4Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler 10,000 3Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler 1,000,000 1Sylvia borin Garden Warbler 500,000 7Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher 1,000,000 2Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher 5,000 1003

Ficedula hypoleuca Pied Flycatcher 1,000,000 2Parus caeruleus Blue Tit 100,000 5Sitta krueperi Krüper’s Nuthatch — National pop unknownLanius collurio Red-backed Shrike 100,000 3Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike 10,000 1Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay 10,000 11Fringilla coelebs Chaffinch 10,000 1003

Carduelis chloris Greenfinch 100,000 6Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill 10,000 17Carpodacus rubicilla Great Rosefinch 70 1003

Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting 10,000 8

1. Only those species of European conservation concern (see Box 1, p. 12) that meet IBA criteria inRussia are listed.

2. Data are taken from the BirdLife/EBCC European Bird Database 1998 (Heath and Borggreve 2000).3. The percentage of the national population in IBAs exceeds 100%. Usually this is because

the national population estimate has not been updated recently whilst the IBA populationestimate has been recently updated with new data as a result of comprehensive surveys ofIBAs themselves. Also, the individual site count for a species may be the maximum oraverage over recent years, and summing these may record more birds than are presentnationally in any single year.

Most IBAs qualified under several criteria. Map 1 shows that thegreat majority of the IBAs (188 sites) qualify as being globallyimportant (they meet ‘A’ criteria) and only 30 as regionally important(meeting ‘B’ criteria only). A total of 116 SPECs meet criteria inIBAs in Russia, and they are listed in Table 4. Many of these speciesbreed at densities that are too low to meet the relevant numericalthreshold, thus relatively few sites have qualified per species underthe B2/B3 criteria.

A large proportion of the IBAs are important for migratorywaterbirds of many different species, at some point in their annuallife-cycle (i.e. when breeding, staging or wintering), and these 118 sitesand 87 species are listed in Table 3. Most of these wetlands are locatedin the coastal zones of the Caspian, Black and Baltic Seas, the ArcticOcean and along the flood-plains of large rivers, and some havebeen designated as Ramsar Sites (Table 5). A minority of sites arerich in species that meet IBA criteria, e.g. 29 sites have more than 10

590


qualifying species each, and six have more than 20 each, these beingthe Don delta (site 141; 36 species), Zaonezh’ye (site 016; 34 species),Lapland Biosphere Reserve (site 008; 30 species), Volga delta (site179; 27 species), and Kenozer’ye and Dadynskiye lake (sites 024and 164) both have 22 species.

It is difficult to assess how adequately breeding bird populationsare covered by IBAs in European Russia (see Table 4), as nationalpopulation data are still unsatisfactory for many bird species andnot all IBAs have been identified yet. But there is no doubt thatmany species of European conservation concern are not adequatelycovered by the IBA network.

HABITATS

There is a mosaic of natural and semi-natural habitats in EuropeanRussia. Huge areas of the tundra and taiga are still very close to being‘natural’. At the same time, some parts of the country have beenalmost completely transformed by man’s activities andinfrastructure—mainly in the central and south-westernadministrative regions such as Moscow, Tula, Kaluga, Orel, Belgorod,Bryansk and Lipetsk, Kursk, Rostov, Krasnodar and Stavropol.

Eight main habitat-types are present in the 218 Russian IBAs, ofwhich forests, wetlands and grasslands are the most frequent(Figure 1). Most of the Russian IBAs are located in real wilderness—in areas where there has been very little human impact. In contrast,some IBAs exist mainly due to man’s non-intensive agriculturalactivities. For example, staging areas for migrating geese Anser andGrus grus often occur in agricultural landscapes, although never farfrom mires and forests, and some waders (Charadrii) prefer non-intensive pastures for breeding. Although more IBAs contain forestand woodland than any other main habitat-type (Figure 1), suchhabitat is present mostly as isolated tracts or small patches in theIBAs of central and southern European Russia, while the vast borealforests in the north, especially in the north-east, are still hardlycovered by the IBA network (see Map 1).

IMPACTS ON IBAs – LAND-USE AND THREATS

Russia covers a wide span of Europe from north to south, and canbe divided into northern, central and southern zones in terms ofthe level of human development and of habitat destruction. Thecurrent socio-economic situation has affected land-use in EuropeanRussia. In general, the influence of man and his activities decreasesfrom the south to the north of the country, as well as from the westto the east, and (within any particular administrative region) alsofrom the centre to the boundaries. Most IBAs are currently state-owned. Figure 2 shows the most common forms of land-use onidentified IBAs.

Agricultural activity occurs in 57% of IBAs, while forestry andhunting occur in more than 43% and 40% of IBAs respectively(Figure 2). The latter two land-uses are common within IBAs fortwo main reasons:

• The huge land-area of the former USSR was shared formanagement mainly between two sectors: the governmentalforestry agencies (the major land-users) and the hunting societies(the secondary land-users).

• Most areas of relatively intact or little-modified habitat wereused for hunting activities.

The current situation is much the same, except that private ownershipof land is becoming more frequent and may in the future affect theoverall balance of land-uses in the country, and possibly in IBAs.

Other types of land-use are not so widespread in IBAs. A verypositive fact is that official nature-conservation activities take placein about 35% of IBAs, and at most such sites these activities covermore than half of the IBA.

The most frequent threats in Russian IBAs are the unsustainableexploitation of birds (51%) and the disturbance of birds (42%)(Figure 3). The former threat takes a variety of forms—excessive(legal) hunting of waterbirds, spring hunting (legal), poaching(illegal)—and is also a consequence of other threats, e.g. expansionof agriculture and forestry, water management, or the extractionindustry, which ‘invade’ wild areas and not only destroy habitats,but also introduce more people into the landscape. The same canbe said about disturbance of birds, as this is caused not only bydirect and deliberate pursuit of birds, but also (and mainly) throughother human activities (listed in Figure 3) which cause incidental,non-deliberate disturbance of sensitive species, for instance logging,drainage or recreation during the nesting season.

Overall, infrastructural development and urbanization are lessfrequent than the previously mentioned threats (Figure 3), at leastfor those IBAs already identified, although their severity for anindividual IBA depends very much on its geographical location(the highly developed centre of European Russia versus the vast,little-populated north-east). This threat will certainly increase inimportance in the future.

Recent drastic changes in the economy will certainly modify birdhabitats and, eventually, bird populations. A large decrease inagricultural activity occurred during the last 10 years in Russia,and this reduction in land management poses a threat to certainbird species. Millions of hectares of agricultural land are currentlybeing neglected, and haymaking and grazing have stopped on manymeadows and pastures. Some industrial and intensive agriculturalpressures on bird habitats have reduced, and some environmentalpollution (e.g. from high use of artificial fertilizers) has sharplydecreased. At the same time, clear-cutting of forests has becomemore widespread in recent years in the vast boreal zone, especiallyin concessions granted to foreign or joint Russian–foreign loggingcompanies, where the resulting problems are most acute.

Further research is needed on the consequences for birds of theserecent, large-scale changes in land-uses. In addition to the above-

Figure 1. Habitats at Important Bird Areas in European Russia(see Appendix 3 for definitions of habitats).

Figure 2. Land-uses at Important Bird Areas in European Russia(see Appendix 3 for definitions of land-uses).

100 3020 605040 70Percentage of IBAs (100% = 218 sites)

1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by habitat

Scrub

Forest and woodland

Artificial landscape

Wetland

Grassland

Marine areas

Rocky areas

Desert

Unknown

5%–49% cover¹

³ 50% cover¹

< 5% or unknown¹

0 10 20 30 5040 60Percentage of IBAs (100% = 218 sites)

1. percentage of area of individual IBA covered by land-use

Not utilized

Other

Military

Urban/industrial/transport

Fisheries/aquaculture

Tourism/recreation

Hunting

Water management

Forestry

Nature conservation/research

Agriculture

Unknown ³ 50% cover¹

5%–49% cover¹

< 5% or unknown¹

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mentioned threats, one of the most dangerous threats to IBAs isthe ever greater decentralization of decision-making from thefederal to the regional level, accompanied by increasingly complexand varied regional legislation, which sometimes makes it verydifficult to monitor or affect the land-use and protected-areasituation.

PROTECTION STATUS

Table 5 summarizes the available data on the national andinternational protection status of IBAs.

■■■■■ National protectionOne of the most comprehensive attempts at biodiversityconservation in Russia has been the establishment of an extensivenetwork of protected areas. The majority of protected areas inRussia are owned, administered and monitored by a number ofstate organizations, although many other organizations, includingNGOs, are also involved in the process of creation or monitoring.There are also one or two privately owned protected areas in Russia,but this phenomenon is very new and still rare.

Three main federal laws regulate the management of all protectedareas, together with many local laws. The federal laws are:1. Federal law ‘On Natural Environment Protection’.2. Federal law ‘On Specially Protected Areas’.3. Federal law ‘On Animal Protection’.

There are also other laws (for example, Forest law) which affectprotected areas in certain ways.

There are four main levels of natural resource management inRussia: federal, regional (i.e. administrative regions, and republics),local authorities (districts within regions/republics), and land-owners and land-users (including collective land-users). The processof decision-making at each level is preceded by the consent of theappropriate authorities at all lower levels and of land-users.

Details of the four main types of protected area nationally aregiven below—for more detailed information see Sobolev et al. (1995)and Blagovidov et al. (1995).

1. Zapovednik (Strict Nature Reserve)This type of protected area falls mainly within category I of theIUCN protected-area classification (IUCN 1994), and most areadministered by the Federal Committee for Environment andNature Protection. There is a special Division of Nature ReserveManagement within the Committee, and several Zapovedniks arealso managed by universities or by the Academy of Science.

There are no analogues to the Zapovednik system elsewhere inthe world. It was created in the former USSR and still exists in Russiaas the main remnant of that former system of protected areas. Thereare currently Zapovedniks in all of the main physico-geographiczones of Russia. Establishment of a Zapovednik entails majorrestrictions on land-use. With the exception of scientific research,most forms of human activity are prohibited within its borders,including residence. Each Zapovednik is surrounded by a semi-protected buffer zone where a limited range of human developmentactivities are allowed, provided that the reserve itself is unharmed.Allowed activities are agreed between the managers of theZapovednik and the relevant local authorities. By the end of 1997there were 99 Zapovedniks in the whole of Russia.

2. National ParkNational Parks fall within category II of the IUCN protected-areaclassification (IUCN 1994). In Russia, National Parks have a shorthistory as the first one was created in 1983. These areas are alsofederal institutions with special staff, being administered by theFederal Forest Service (mostly by regional units of that body) of theMinistry of Agriculture. In comparison with Zapovedniks, NationalParks have a more flexible regime of economic development, andcommunities residing within the territory are typically incorporatedinto the park. Among the main themes of staff activity are not onlyenvironment protection, but also public education and awareness.There are 34 National Parks in Russia.

3. Natural MonumentNatural Monuments meet category III of the IUCN protected-areaclassification (IUCN 1994). Most often, Natural Monuments aredesignated to protect objects of special interest, such as a rockoutcrop, or a rare bird’s nest (e.g. stork Ciconia or raptor), or awater-source. Although the objectives of Natural Monuments arevery similar to Zakazniks (see below), traditionally NaturalMonuments have had a relatively small size (100–500 ha), but thereare exceptions in some regions. The management of NaturalMonuments is arranged in the same way as it is in Zakazniks (seebelow), and they have neither scientific nor law-enforcement staff.

4. Zakaznik (Special Purpose Reserve or Nature Refuge)Zakazniks mostly meet category IV of the IUCN protected-areaclassification (IUCN 1994). Zakazniks are territories where eitherpermanent or temporary limitations have been placed uponeconomic activities. There are several tens of federal Zakazniks inRussia, but more commonly they are established at the level ofadministrative regions or republics. There are more than 1,000 suchregional Zakazniks, covering about 4% of the territory of Russia.

Figure 3. Threats at Important Bird Areas in European Russia (see Appendix 3 for definitions of threat types and impact categories).

Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage

Abandonment/reduction of land management

Disturbance to birds

40 50 600 10 20 30Percentage of IBAs (100% = 218 sites)

Unknown

Extraction industry

Consequences of animal/plant introductions

Groundwater abstraction

Agricultural intensification/expansionSelective logging/cutting

Unsustainable exploitation

Industrialization/urbanization

Dredging/canalization

Intensified forest management

Deforestation (commercial)

Filling-in of wetlands

Firewood collection

Aquaculture/fisheriesForest grazing

OtherAfforestation

Recreation/tourism

Drainage

Infrastructure

Natural events

High impact

Medium to low impact

Unknown impact

592


001 Nemanski forest

002 Dal’ni forest ✔

003 Ainov islands ✔

004 Sem islands ✔

005 Coastal belt of eastern Murmansk

006 Watershed of the Rivers Strelnaand Varzuga

007 Middle reaches of the RiverPonoy (Zakaznik Ponoyski) ✔

008 Lapland Biosphere Reserve ✔ ✔

009 Kandalaksha Bay ✔ ✔

010 Gavrilovski archipelago ✔

011 Surroundings of Kiyesh’yaur lake

012 Lakes of northern Karelia ✔

013 Kivach Nature Reserve ✔

014 Olonets plain ✔

015 Palinsaari island

016 Zaonezh’ye ✔

017 South-eastern coast of Lake Ladoga ✔

018 Onega Bay of White Sea ✔ ✔

019 Pinezhski Nature Reserve ✔

0201 Solovetski archipelago ✔

021 Torna–Shoina watershed

022 Delta of River Severnaya Dvina ✔

023 Lake Lacha ✔

024 Kenozer ’ye ✔

025 Bezymyannaya and Gribovaya Baysand adjoining waters

026 Arkhangelskaya Bay027 Kargopol’ area ✔

028 Vodlozero ✔

029 Vashutkiny, Padimeyskiye andKhargeyskiye lakes

030 Vaygach island ✔

031 Varandeyskaya Lapta peninsula

032 River Chernaya033 Southern coast of Cheshskaya Bay

034 Kanin peninsula035 Khaypudyrskaya Bay (islands of

B. Zelenets, Dolgi, Matveyev)

036 Russki Zavorot peninsula ✔

037 Middle reaches ofBolshaya Rogovaya river

038 Pechoro-Ilychski Nature Reserve ✔ ✔ ✔

039 Yugyd Va ✔

040 Valley of Sysola river ✔ ✔

041 Kilpola island and adjoining waters042 Mouth of Svir river ✔ ✔

043 Rakovye lakes ✔

044 Berezovye islands ofVyborg Bay ✔ ✔

045 Koporski Bay046 Lake Vyalye and adjoining marshes ✔

047 Narva reservoir048 Kurgalski peninsula ✔

049 Swans area (southern shoreof Finski Bay) ✔ ✔

050 Chudsko-Pskovski lakeand adjacent areas ✔ ✔

051 Lake Ilmen’ and adjoiningmarshy plain ✔ ✔

Subtotal of IBAs 10 3 1 19 7 2 2

052 Pereluchski Nature Reserve ✔

053 Flood-plain of Volkhov river

054 Redrovski Nature Reserve ✔

055 Sources of the River Luga

056 Polisto-Lovatskaya mire system ✔ ✔

057 Sizemski flood-plainof Sheksna reservoir ✔

058 Rybinsk reservoir ✔

059 Uglichskoy reservoir060 Central Forest Biosphere Reserve

and adjacent areas ✔ ✔

061 Sources of Osuga river

062 Budnyanski mire ✔

063 Stakhovski marshes

064 Upper Mologa river (Verestovo lake) ✔

065 Savtsinskoye marsh ✔

0661 Orshinski marshes

067 Flood-plain of Kotorosl’and Ust’e rivers

068 Flood-plain of Kostroma river ✔

069 Smolenskoye Pohozer’ye ✔

070 Faustovo flood-plainsof Moscow river ✔

071 Homeland of the Crane (Dubnamarshes and adjacent areas)

072 Lotoshino crane gathering

073 Danilovskoye marshes ✔

074 Dedinivo flood-plain of Oka river ✔

075 Zavidovo Nature Reserve,including Lotoshinski, Klinskiand Diatlovo fish-ponds ✔

076 Central Meshchera lake-system ✔ ✔

077 Nerussa–Desna woodland ✔

078 Flood-plain of Iput’ riverin vicinity of Krutoayr ✔

079 Flood-plain of Iput’ riverin vicinity of Kholevichami

080 Kletnyanski forest ✔

081 Desna flood-plain near Trubchevsk ✔

082 Gavan’skiye oak-forest

083 Kaluzhskiye Zaseki Nature Reserve ✔

084 Oka River Valley Biosphere Reserve ✔ ✔

085 Valley complex of Mokshaand Oka rivers ✔

086 Shilovo flood-plain of Oka river ✔

087 Izhevsk flood-plain of Oka river ✔ ✔

088 Solotcha flood-plain of Oka river ✔

089 Oka valley in vicinity of Murmino ✔

090 Watershed of Tsna and Vysha rivers

091 Terekhovski oak-forest

092 Kulikovski forest ✔

093 Upper Voronezh forest ✔

094 Watershed of Bityug and Tsna rivers095 Zavoronezhski area

096 Voroninski Nature Reserve ✔

097 Tsninski forest

098 Flood-plain of Sura river ✔

099 Mordovian P. G. SmidovichNature Reserve ✔

100 Moksha valley in vicinityof Temnikov


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IBA Internationalcode name

Table 5. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in European Russia.A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent).

National International

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101 Ichalkovski ✔

102 Flood-plain of Vad river ✔

103 Insaro-Kovylkinski104 Moksha flood-plain in vicinity

of Krasnoslobodsk ✔

105 Flood-plain of Alatyr’ riverin vicinity of Ardatov ✔

106 Surski reservoir107 Bekovskoye forest108 Kuznetski forest1091 Sengileyevskiye mountain

110 Watershed of Sura and Barysh rivers ✔ ✔

111 Privolzhskaya forest-steppe ✔

112 Cheremshanski Bayof Kuybyshev reservoir ✔

113 Khoper Nature Reserve ✔

114 Flood-plain of Khoper rivernear Lake Ilmen’

115 Khrenovskoy forest116 Bereznyakovski forest117 Voronezhski Nature Reserve ✔ ✔

118 Vorono-Khoperski area119 Levo-Dobrinskaya valley120 Lake El’ton121 Novokvasnikovski liman122 Kalachinskaya loop of River Don123 Danilovski forest124 Rubezhnoye forest125 Akhtubinsk wetland ✔

126 Vicinity of Borisoglebovka(Saratovski [Semenovski] Zakaznik)

127 Valley of Safarovka river128 Siniye mountains129 Priyeruslanskiye sands ✔

130 Varfolomeyevskiye saltmarshes131 North part of Volgogradski reservoir ✔

132 Vicinity of Voznesenka village133 Sokino134 Almazovski area135 Algaiski136 Khvalynski National Park ✔

137 Rovno area138 Stepan Rasin rock ✔

139 Rzhestyanka140 Veselovskoye reservoir ✔

141 Delta of the River Don ✔ ✔

142 Beglitskaya sand-spit ✔

143 Islands in the western part ofLake Manych-Gudilo ✔ ✔

144 Karaichevski forest ✔

145 Secretevskiye sands (Oblivski forest)146 Kalitvenski forest

147 Gorodishchenski forest148 Chistaya Banka and

Ivan-Karaul islands149 Uttinskaya area ✔ ✔

150 Salt-lakes in thePrimorsko-Akhtarsk area

151 Eastern coast of the Sea of Azov ✔ ✔

152 Kiziltash limans153 Lower Urushtek river ✔


154 Akhmet–Skala ridge

155 Kurdzhips river valley ✔

156 Lake Khanskoye157 Yeyski salt-lakes158 Surroundings of Black Forest159 Kalininski Plavny160 Mouth of Yeya river161 Imeretinskaya lowland162 Valley of Urup river ✔

163 Caucasus Biosphere Reserve ✔ ✔

164 Dadynskiye lake165 Lake Manych-Gudilo ✔ ✔ ✔

166 Burukshunskiye limans ✔

167 Teberdinski Nature Reserve ✔

168 Kabardino-Balkarski Nature Reserve ✔

169 Severo-Osetinski (North Osetin)Nature Reserve ✔

170 Budary lakes171 Agrakhanski Bay ✔

172 Kizlyar Bay ✔

173 Mouth of Samur river ✔

174 Lake Adzhi175 Sources of Mazachai and

Mullarchai rivers176 Karakol’skiye lakes177 Achikol’skiye lakes178 Morskoy Biryuchek island ✔ ✔

179 Volga delta ✔ ✔ ✔

180 Western Ilmen area ✔

181 Maly Zhemchuzhny island ✔

182 Bogdinsko-Baskunchakski ✔

183 Flood-plain of River Vetluga184 Kamsko-Bakaldinskiye marshes ✔ ✔

185 Sitnikovski Nature Reserve ✔

186 Gorki reservoir and thelower Unzha river

187 Flood-plain of Algashka river188 Sura environs ✔

189 Arski fish-ponds190 Kamsko-Ikski area ✔

191 Bulgarski ✔

192 Cheremshanski forest193 Zhigulevsk Nature Reserve ✔

194 Tashlinski forest195 Racheyski forest ✔

196 Suskanski Nature Reserve ✔

1971 Buzulukski forest

198 Kamsko-Yayvenski wetland ✔

199 Verkhnevisherski mountain ✔

200 Kumikushski wetland ✔

201 Adovo-Chugrumski wetland ✔

202 Khvarkush and Zolotoy Kamen’ ridges ✔

203 Nizhnekamskaya flood-plain

204 Bashkirski Nature Reserve ✔

205 Octyabr ’ski forest

206 Mountain valley of Sakmara river207 Nikiforovski forest

208 Watershed of Bel’skaya andNugush rivers ✔ ✔ ✔

209 Bel’skaya flood-plain


Table 5 ... continued. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in European Russia.A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent).

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210 Yamantau mountain ✔

211 Iremel’ski mountain212 Irendyk ridge

213 Maly Nakas ridge214 Steppe valley of Sakmara river


Table 5 ... continued. Protection status of Important Bird Areas in European Russia.A tick (✔) indicates that an IBA overlaps with a protected area (to any extent).

Figure 4. The national protection status of Important Bird Areasin European Russia.

% of area ofindividualIBA overlapswith nationalprotected areas:High >90%Partial 10–90%Low <10%None

Total area of overlap between IBA network in Russia and national protected-area system(see Table 5 for categories) = 68,937–70,272 km2 (40% of total IBA area).

(Figure 4, Table 5). The remaining 115 IBAs (53%) have a low overlap(18 sites) or no protection at all (97 sites). Thus, only about half of theidentified IBAs have a moderate or high overlap with the nationalprotected-area system. In total, 39–40% of the total IBA area is coveredby national types of protected area in Russia (Figure 4).

■■■■■ International protectionRussia is party to most of the relevant international legislation andinitiatives concerning the conservation of sites in Europe (Box 1).There are only 18 IBAs in European Russia which overlap withofficially designated Ramsar Sites (Table 5), but most of the otherwetland IBAs feature in a shadow list of Ramsar Sites (Langeveldand Grimmett 1990). Nine IBAs are also protected at theinternational level as Biosphere Reserves (Table 5, Figure 5). In total,about 19% of the total IBA area in Russia is covered by internationaltypes of protected area (Figure 5).

■■■■■ Future proposalsAlmost all protected areas in Russia conserve some bird habitat,hence proposals for their continued development remain a researchpriority for ornithologists (Galushin and Zubakin 1998). It shouldbe noted that not all protected areas within IBAs were created forthe purpose of bird conservation. So, a special attempt should bemade as soon as possible to analyse the current protected-arearegime, and to restrict human activity in some protected areas, tomake sure that they really are conserving birds.

CONSERVATION

• A national Red Data Book for threatened and rare bird specieswas established in 1974—the second edition is under preparationat the moment—and this lists about 125 bird species or subspecies(in the whole of Russia) as nationally threatened. By a specialdecision of the government in 1996, all Red Data Book speciesand their subspecies are now strictly protected by federal laws(Galushin and Zubakin 1998). The compilation of regional RedData Books is now underway in many regions of Russia.

Partial51 IBAs (23%)

High52 IBAs (24%)

None97 IBAs (45%)

Low18 IBAs (8%)

High21 IBAs (10%)

Partial6 IBAs (3%)

None190 IBAs (87%)

Low1 IBA (<1%)

There are several common types of Zakaznik, such as zoological,ornithological, botanical, hydrobiological, and landscape. Huntingorganizations are very active in the establishment of temporaryHunting Zakazniks, each lasting for 10–20 years. Zakazniks whichare established by the federal government usually have a staff ofrangers (game managers). In the case of other Zakazniks, the primaryland-users are officially responsible for site protection and formanagement of suitable activities in the area, but there are nopermanent staff in these areas.

Zakazniks and Natural Monuments play very significant roles,forming the ‘backbone’ of a regionally administered protected-areanetwork.

In addition to the four major types of protected area, a variety ofregulations allow for nature conservation in other ways. Accordingto several federal laws, including the national law ‘On SpeciallyProtected Areas’, any form of protected area can exist at the regionaland local (district) levels (e.g. ‘green belts’ of towns, water-protection zones along rivers, privately owned protected areas).The types of restriction on economic activity, and their limits,depend on what is being protected at a particular area.

Fifty-two (24%) out of the total of 218 IBAs have a high level ofoverlap with the national protected-area system (mostly as Zapovedniksor National Parks), while 51 of the 218 IBAs have a moderate overlap

215 Kupy area

216 Kulaksay lowland217 Shalkaro-Zhetykolski lake system

218 Orenburgski Nature Reserve ✔

Total number of IBAs 40 9 6 67 18 2 91. Protection status of IBAs 020, 066, 109 and 197 is unknown.

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GlobalBiodiversity Convention ✔Ramsar Convention ✔Bonn ConventionWorld Heritage Convention ✔MAB Programme ✔

Pan-EuropeanBern Convention

RegionalHelsinki Convention

✔ Convention ratified/initiative supported(✔) Convention signed

Box 1. International legislationand initiatives that arerelevant to site conservation inRussia (see Appendix 1 for ageneral description of theseagreements).

Figure 5. The international protection status of Important BirdAreas in European Russia.

% of area ofindividualIBA overlapswith internationalprotected areas:High >90%Partial 10–90%Low <10%None

Total area of overlap between IBA network in Russia and international protected-areasystem (see Table 5 for categories) = 32,982 km2 (19% of total IBA area).

595


Arkhangelsk region1. Delta reki Mezen’ (Mezen’ delta)2. Kozhozerski Zakaznik Ostrov Dezhkin Kamen’

(Dezhkin Kamen’ island)3. Southern tundra of Novaya Zemlya4. Ust’ye reki Kara (Mouth of Kara river)5. Lesnoi ostrov More-Yu (More Yu forest)6. Bolvanskaya guba (Bolvanskaya Bay)7. Pakhanicheskaya guba (Pakhanicheskaya Bay)8. Kosminskaya systema ozer (Kosminskaya lake system)9. Delta Pechory (Pechora delta)10. Ostrov I proliv Sengeiski (Sengeiski Bay and island)11. Ostrov Kolguev (Kolguev island)Bashkortostan Republic12. *Khrebet Shaitan-Tau (Shaitan-Tau ridge)13. *Zilairskoye Prisakmar’ye14. *Gorni massiv Kraka (Kraka mountain)15. *Meneuzskiye Yary (Meneuzskiye bank)16. *Usen’skiye Yary (Usen’skiye bank)17. *Gornaya dolina reki Inzer (Mountain valley of

Inzer river)18. Zapovednik Basegi (Basegi Nature Reserve)19. Nukaevskiye shishki (Nukaevskiye hills)20. Andreevskiye shishki (Andreevskiye hills)21. Muradymovskoye ushchel’ye (‘Muradymovskoye

Ushchel’ye’ National Park)22. Krasnokamski Les (Krasnokamski forest)23. Kaltasinski Les (Kaltasinski forest)24. *Uphimskoye Plato (Uphimskoye plateau)25. *Pavlovskoye vodokhranilishche (Pavlovskoye

reservoir)26. *Aiskiye Yary (Aiskiye bank)27. *Gornaya dolina reki Ai (Mountain valley of Ai

river)28. *Gornaya dolina reki Zilim (Mountain valley of

Zilim river)29. *Tazlarovskiye shishki (Tazlarovskiye hills)30. *Uruyk (Uruyk area)31. *Bakalinski Les (Bakalinski forest)32. *Vedeneevskaya Dacha (Vedeneevskaya area)33. *Prisuyn’skoye lesnichestvo (Prisuyn’skoye forest)34. *Sharanskiye Bory (Sharanski forest)35. *Buninski Les (Buninski forest)36. *Usen’-Ivanovski Les (Usen’-Ivanovski forest)

Dagestan Republic37. *Turalinskaya laguna (Turalinskaya lagoon)38. *Sulakskaya laguna (Sulakskaya lagoon)39. *Samurski Khrebet (Samurski ridge)40. *Khrebet Kebyaktepe (Kebyaktepe ridge)41. *Urochishche ‘Laman-Kam’ (‘Laman-Kam’ area)42. *Temirgoiskiye Ozera (Temirgoiskiye lakes)43. *Kayakentski Zakaznik (Kayakentski Reserve)44. *Kasumkentski Zakaznik (Kasumkentski Reserve)45. *Berkubinskaya Lesnaya Dacha (Berkubinski forest)

Ingushetiya Republic46. Verkhov’ya reki Assy (Valley of Assa river)

Ivanovo region47. Srednee techeniye reki Lukh (Middle stream of

Lukh river)

Kalmykiya Republic48. *Ozero Sostinskoye (Sostinskoye lake)

Kaluga region49. *Bryansko-Zhizdryanskoye Poles’ye (Bryansko-

Zhizdryanski forest, watershed of Reseta andVytebet’ rivers)

Karelia Republic50. Shuiskiye polya (Shuiskiye fields)

Kaliningrad region51. Vislinskaya kosa (Vislinskaya spit)52. Yuzhnoye Poberezh’ye Kurshskogo Zaliva

(Southern shore of Kurshski Bay)53. Vostochnoye Poberezh’ye Kurshskogo Zaliva

(Eastern shore of Kurshski Bay)54. Dolina i ust’ye reki Deima (Valley and mouth of

Deima river)55. Ozero Vyshtenetskoye (Vyshtenetskoye lake)

Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya Republic56. *Skalistyi Khrebet mezhdu rekami Urup i Malyi

Zelenchuk (Skalinstyi ridge, watershed of Urup andMalyi Zelenchuk)

57. *Dolina reki Khasaut (Valley of Khasaut river)Kirov region58. *Kamsko-Poryshski taezhno-bolotni complex

(Kamsko-Poryshski taiga–mire complex)59. *Mezhdurech’ye Atsvezha I Yumy (Watershed of

Atsvezha and Yuma rivers)

Komi Republic60. Mezhdurech’ye Shchepkinoi I Ersy (Watershed of

Shchepkina and Ersa rivers)61. Bolotnaya sistema Usvanuyr (Usvanuyr mire system)Krasnodarski kray and Adygeya Republic62. Gora Autl’ (Autl’ mountain)63. Sladko-Limanskoye okhotkhozyastvo (Sladko-

Limanskoye hunting area)64. Eiskiye plavni65. Okretnosti gory Bolshoi Tkhach (Surroundings of

Bolshoi Tkhach mountain)66. *Verkhov’ya rek Kuna i Shisha (Sources of Kuna and

Shisha rivers)67. *Dolina reki Khodz’ (Valley of Khodz’ river)

Leningrad region68. Severo-Zapadniye prigorody St69. Yugo-Zapadniye prigorody St70. Ivinski razliv (Ivinskoye lake and suroundings)71. Shlisselburgskaya guba Ladozhskogo ozera

(Shlisserburgskaya Bay of Lake Ladoga)72. Rybkhoz Kovashi i Syur’evskoye boloto

(Surroundings of Kovashi ponds)Mordovia Republic73. Purdoshanski (Purdoshanski area)74. Sialeevskaya (Sialeevskaya area)75. Ardatovski (Ardatovski area)76. Umetski (Umetski area)77. *Vyshinski (Vyshinski area)78. *Rybkinski (Rybkinski area)79. *Issinski (Issinski area)

Murmansk region80. Ph’yarvann (Ph’yarvann)

Nizhni Novgorod region81. Poima reki Oki v okrestnostyakh Pavlovo (Oka

flood-plain in vicinity of Pavlovo)Orenburg region82. Donguzskaya step’ (Donduzskaya steppe)83. *Poima reki Ilek (Ilek flood-plain)84. Chibendinskaya melovaya step’ (Chibendinskaya

steppe)85. Okrestnosti Dombarovskogo (Vicinity of

Dombarovskoye)86. Iriklinskoye vodokhranilishche (Iriklinskoye reservoir)87. Ozero Aike (Aike lake)

Orel region88. Orlovskoye Poles’ye (Orlovskoye Poles’ye National

Park)

Penza region89. Zamechenski (Zamechenski area)

Perm’ region90. *Redrikovskiye bolota (Redrikovskiye mire)91. *Krasnoye Plotbishche92. *Bereznikovskiye bolota (Bereznikovskiye mire)

Pskov region93. Sebezhskaya (Sebezhski National Park)

Rostov region94. *Elanski (Elanski area)95. *Ostrovnoi (Ostrovnoi area)96. *Tsimlyanskiye peski (Tsimlyanskiye sands)97. Liman Kholostonur (Kholostonur liman)98. *Dudarevskya (Dudarevskaya area)99. Reshetovskaya (Reshetovskaya area)100. Chirski (Chirski area)101. *Kundruychinskiye peski (Kundruychinskiye sands)102. *Migulinskiye peski (Migulinskiye sands)

Box 2. Shadow list of 151 sites in European Russia that are potentially IBAs. Those sites that were surveyed in 1998 (after the closingdate for inclusion in this publication) and which were found to meet IBA criteria are marked with an asterisk (*). These latter sites(totalling 73) will certainly be included in the forthcoming national IBA inventory.

Ryazan’ region103. Dolinniy complex Mokshi i Oki (Valley complex of

Oka and Moksha rivers)104. Poima reki Proni (Flood-plain of Pronya river)105. Rybkhoz ‘Para’ (Para fish-ponds)106. Poima rek Mokhshi I Tsny (Flood-plain of Moksha

and Tsna rivers)107. Ozera Komgar’ i Negar’ (Komgar’ and Negar’ lakes)Samara region108. Baituganski Zakaznik (Baituganski reserve)109. Pokhvistnevski lesnoi massiv (Pokhvistnevski forest)110. Uzuykovski Bor (Uzuykovski forest)111. Kondurchinskiye Bory (Kondurchinskiye forest)112. *Chapaevskiye Limani(Chapaevskie liman)

Saratov region113. Pamyatnik prirody Pady (Pady Natural Monument)114. Dolina Khopra (Khoper valley)115. *Krasnoyarskiye luga (Krasnoyarskiye meadows)116. Kirovskaya step’ (Kirovskaya steppe)117. Pereluybski (Pereluybski area)118. Okrestnosti gory Sinyaya (Surroundings of Sinyaya

mountain)119. *Agrotsenozy yuzhnoi i vostochnoi chasti

Novouzenskogo raiona (Agriculturalland of Novouzenski district)

120. *Cherkasski Zakaznik (Cherkasski Reserve)121. *Okrestnosty Eruslana (Vicinity of Eruslan village)122. *Okrestnosti Zelenogo Dola (Vicinity of Zeleni Dol

village)123. *Polynno-Zlakoviye stepi u sela Kanavka (Steppe in

vicinity of Kanavka village)Smolensk region124. Rybkhoz Zherespeya (Zherespeya fish-ponds)125. Lesniye massivy v poime Ugry (Forest in flood-plain

of Ugra river)126. *Sokolino-Kasplyanskaya (Sokolino-Kasplyanskaya

area)

Stavropolski kray127. *Solenoe ozero (Lake Solenoe)128. *Irgaklinskaya lesnaya dacha (Irgaklinskaya area)129. *Okrestnosti ozera Ptich’ye (Surroundings of

Ptich’ye lake)130. *Ostrov Pelikani (Pelikani island)131. *Okrestnosti Kislovodska (Surroundings of Kislovodsk)Tatarstan Republic132. *Bugulminskiye Bory (Bugulminski forest)

Ul’yanovskaya region133. *Starokulatkinskiye dubravy (Starokulatkinski forest)134. *Zolotaya Gora i okrestnosti (Zolotaya mountain

and surroundings)135. *Karginskiye Kholmy (Karginskiye hills)

Vladimir region136. Petushinskoye okhotkhozyastvo (Petushinski

hunting area)

Volgograd region137. *Cherebaevo (Cherebaevo area)138. Teterevyatka (Teterevyatka area)139. *Bulukhta (Gor’ko-Solenoe ozero) (Bulukhta,

Gor’ko-Solenoe lake)140. Zakaznik Drophini (Drophini reserve)141. Pravoberezhe Volgogradskogo vodokhranilishcha

(Right shore of Volgogradski reservoir)142. Archadinskiye Peski (Archadinskiye sands)143. Sarpinskiye Ozera (Sarpinskiye lakes)144. Voiskovaya dubrava (Voiskovaya oak-forest)145. Mezhdurech’ye Dona I Chira (Watershed of Don

and Chir rivers)146. Tsimlyanskoye vodokhranilishche (Tsimlyanski

reservoir)147. *Golubinskiye peski (Golubinskiye sands)148. *Stepnovski Ugol (Stepnovski area)Yaroslavl’ region149. *Dunilovskoye boloto (Dunilovskoye bog)150. *Shalimovskoye boloto (Shalimovskoye bog)151. *Poima reki Yukhot’ (Yukhot’ flood-plain)

596


• As mentioned previously, about half of the IBAs have (individually)a moderate to high overlap with nationally protected areas. Thisimplies that the protected parts of the IBAs should have a specifiedland-use regime, formally agreed on paper with land-users, regionalgovernmental organizations, etc. A network of regionalgovernmental environment agencies was established in 1988 asthe mechanism for controlling and managing protected areas andother conservation issues. These regional agencies (one per regionfor almost all administrative regions/republics) are supervised bythe Government Committee for Nature Protection andEnvironment. But, because of a lack of staff and sometimes offunds, in reality at most sites there is no control of the land-useregime, and as a result there are many violations of the statutoryprotection. Only Zapovedniks and some federal Zakazniks andNational Parks have something resembling a management plan.There has been no tradition in Russia to write management plansand then to really apply them in practice, so the majority of IBAs(even if protected) do have not them.

• Scientific research and monitoring of breeding, migrating andwintering birds are carried out at those IBAs which fully or partlyoverlap with federal nature reserves (Zapovedniks and NationalParks). Some management work is done at IBAs in regions wherethere are active conservation NGOs, e.g. towards the creationof protected areas or towards the monitoring of rare species orof waterbird numbers. It is currently difficult to say exactly howmany IBAs are under active management or research by RBCUmembers and projects, or by the Division for Nature Reservesor by other environmental NGOs, although RBCU has goodworking contacts with many of these other groups.

• In general, there are three top priorities for avian conservationresearch which will closely determine the future progress of IBAwork in Russia (Galushin and Zubakin 1998):1. the assessment and prediction of the impact of present socio-

economic conditions on bird diversity and populations;2. the survey, monitoring and comparison of bird fauna,

populations and habitats in various regions;3. the implementation of conservation-biology practices,

including the development of appropriate measures for theconservation of birds and their habitats.

ANALYTICAL METHODS

• IBA data-sheets were prepared in Russian, very similar to thedata-sheets in English that had been prepared by the Secretariat ofBirdLife International. A lack of recent ornithological information,and a scarcity of professional ornithologists and skilled amateurbirdwatchers, are both real problems in Russia, therefore someadditional boxes were added to the data-sheets, so that any availableinformation from the last 10–15 years could also be included, inorder to have as much data as possible about each IBA.

• As no strong and full scientific coordination was possible inRussia, each collaborator used their traditional methods of birdcounting, such as absolute counts, transects, plots, etc. and thenextrapolated data to cover the whole area suggested as an IBA,so as to produce estimates of minimum and maximum populationsize for bird species. Data were then checked at the RBCU officeand defined more precisely, working together with collaboratorsif necessary and possible. Certain species (e.g. Crex crex, certainwaders [Charadrii]) do not have a pair-breeding system, but countsare given as ‘breeding pairs’, unless otherwise stated, even thoughthe actual unit of census may have been something else (e.g. thenumber of breeding individuals, or of calling or displaying males).

• Other sites in European Russia which have the potential to meetIBA criteria, following future investigations, but which are notcovered by the current European IBA review, are listed in Box 2.

• Overall, this inventory of IBAs has improved knowledge of birddistributions in European Russia, and for several species hasallowed a more accurate estimate of their total population size inEuropean Russia.

GLOSSARY

kray administrative region.

liman a water-body in a shallow depression in the steppe zone, normally butnot necessarily saline (can be brackish or fresh).RBCU Russian Bird Conservation Union (Soyuz Okhrany Ptits Rossii).taiga the coniferous forest of the boreal biome of northern Europe and Asia,lying between the temperate and the tundra biomes.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The current IBA review in European Russia is a result of huge amount ofwork carried out by a network of collaborators, who volunteered their energyand much free time in compiling data and surveying sites in the field. It wasonly through the enthusiasm of all these people that it was possible to organizethis review within a very restricted time-schedule and with a rather smallamount of funds.

We are indebted to the following authors of data-sheets (site-codes inbrackets): V. A. Andreev (022), A. N. Antonchikov (118, 121, 126, 129, 130, 132),V. M. Anufriev (039, 040), V. V. Anufriev (035), N. V. Anzigitova (023, 027),A. V. Artem’ev (014, 017), O. V. Askeev and I. V. Askeev (189), V. O. Avdanin(021, 050), A. S. Ayupov (190, 191), Z. T. Bagautdinova (204), S. V. Bakka (184,185), V. P. Belik (107, 108, 115, 119, 122, 123, 124, 144, 145, 146, 147, 192, 194,197, 205, 206, 207, 214), A. V. Belyachenko (118, 121, 126, 129, 130, 131), V. V.Bianki (003), A. I. Bliznyuk (149, 165, 166, 178), V. S. Bogatov (171), N. S. Boiko(010), O. V. Borodin (109, 110, 111, 112), Yu. N. Bublichenko (048), O. M.Bukreeva (165), V. T. But’ev (027), V. A. Buzun (036), A. E. Cherenkov (018,020), S. E. Cherenkov (165), V. F. Chernobay (125), E. V. Chernova (058), A. O.Choubine (120, 171), V. G. Chupachenko (077), A. V. Davygora (215, 216, 217),S. A. Dylyuk (011, 072), G. S. Dzhamirzoev (173, 174, 175, 176, 177), N. A.Egorova (083), M. Kh. Emtyl (150, 152, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160), G. S. Eremkin(064, 076), G. S. Fedchuk (058), Yu. P. Fedotov (077), V. V. Frolov (106), A. M.Gineev (151), O. V. Glushenkov (187), S. V. Golubev (058, 067, 068), Yu. A.Gorshkov (190, 191), E. A. Goryunov (084, 085, 086, 087, 088, 089, 090, 091), G.V. Grishanov (001, 002), G. F. Grishutkin (101, 099), E. B. Gruzdev (058), A. S.Gylyazov (007, 008), I. V. Il’inskiy (055), M. P. Il’yukh (164), N. P. Iovchenko(049), A. M. Ivanenko (152, 156, 157), M. N. Ivanova (060), I. V. Karyakin (198,199, 200, 201, 202, 203, 208, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213), B. A. Kazakov (140), T. Yu.Khohlova (015, 016, 023, 024, 028), A. N. Khokhlov (164), S. K. Kochanov (037,039), S. A. Korkina (106), S. M. Kosenko (077, 078, 079, 080, 081, 082), A. B.Kostin (083), V. A. Kovalev (042), V. G. Krivenko (021, 180), A. V. Kuznetsov(057), E. A. Kuznetsov (023, 025, 026, 027), A. S. Lapshin (100, 102, 103, 104, 105,098), N. V. Lapshin (014, 017), E. A. Lebedeva (173), G. P. Lebedeva (193, 195,196, 197), Yu. V. Lokhman (150, 152, 156, 157, 158, 159, 160), B. Yu. Losov (077),E. V. Lysenkov (100, 102, 103, 104, 105, 098), S. V. Mikhailov (043), V. A.Minoranskiy (141, 142, 143), A. L. Mischenko (051, 052, 053, 054, 056, 071, 074,075), V. V. Morozov (127, 128), V. N. Moseikin (126, 133, 134, 135, 136, 137, 138,139), N. N. Moshonkin (182), N. D. Neifeld (038), V. I. Nikolaev (061, 062, 063,064, 065, 066, 075), G. A. Noskov (042, 043, 044, 048, 049), A. D. Numerov (114,115, 116, 117), T. D. Paneva (010), I. V. Panteleev (193, 195, 196, 197), V. G.Pchelintsev (055), V. V. Piskunov (121, 126, 129, 130, 131), T. V. Pleshak (030),I. V. Pokrovskaya (025, 026), V. M. Polivanov (167), S. P. Rezviy (042, 045), S.V. Rudnitskiy (166), G. M. Rusanov (179, 180, 181), A. A. Rusinov (058, 067,068), S. Yu. Rykova (019), V. S. Sarychev (115, 116, 092, 093), I. B. Savinich (045),V. Yu. Semashko (018, 020), A. I. Shepel (200, 201, 202), I. P. Shpilenok (077), S.L. Smirnova (109, 110, 111), E. N. Sokhina (125), A. Yu. Sokolov (114), O. V.Sukhanova (051, 053, 075), T. V. Sviridova (074), M. I. Tarantsev (140), G. M.Tertitskiy (018, 020), P. A. Tilba (152, 153, 154, 155, 161, 162, 163), V. G. Turchin(115, 116), P. D. Vengerov (114, 115, 116, 117), E. V. Vilkov (171, 172), G. V.Vinogradov (021), S. M. Volkov (069), G. P. Vorobiev (096, 097), I. I. Vorobiev(113), V. A. Yakovlev (188), M. V. Yakovleva (013), M. M. Zabelin (118, 094,095), V. I. Zabelin (164), V. L. Zemlyanoy (133), V. B. Zimin (014, 017), A. A.Zolotarev (113), V. A. Zubakin (004, 070, 071, 073, 074).

We are also very grateful to other collaborators who contributed to the shadowlist of potential IBAs (see Box 2) and to all of the participants in the IBA Programmein Russia, who continue to compile data in their own free time: L. N. Voronov,S. V. Bukharinov, A. Yu. Okolelov, K. V. Avilova, A. A. Mogilner, S. V. Kornev,L. D. Alba, S. V. Buslaev, Yu. D. Galchenkov, V. I. Garanin, Yu. A. Gorshkov,A. V. Zavyalov, B. Yu. Lozov, N. P. Malkov, V. G. Marrphin, E. Sisonenko, Yu.N. Tabanakov, V. V. Tolstyakov, O. V. Shvets, L. Ph. Skryleva, A. V. Dobrinov,A. Lastukhin, V. N. Melnikov, R. A. Khanov, Yu. V. Pishvanov, T. I. Chevanina,A. A. Chibilev, P. Pakhomov, V. D. Kokhanov, L. P. Uryadova, G. D. Rudnykh,V. S. Kuznetsov, B. A. Kozlov, V. I. Mironov, S. A. Fetisov, S. Nedosekin, M.A. Erashov, V. I. Pozdyshev, N. V. Markov, A. I. Dodonov, D. Yu. Suchkov, L.G. Onoprienko, S. V. Ruudnitski, V. N. Medvedev, R. A. Volkov, B. V.Khasminski, A. G. Fefilov, L. I. Nikolaev, D. I. Chukhlantsev, M. V. Gordin,Yu. G. Karpov, V. R. Roganov, O. V. Bakin, L. I. Kuts, A. I. Paliev, I. V.

597


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1994 1 2 B B2

1. Internationally important but not in ‘Top 5’ sites.

Silchenko, D. G. Kosintsev, P. V. Kopylov, A. S. Galaktionov, V. A. Grudinin,A. S. Tolstykh, A. A. Medvedev, Yu. A. Bykov, L. D. Bekhtereva, E. P. Komlev,S. M. Volkov, V. I. Gorshkov, A. P. Bicherev, M. I. Demidova, E. V. Gavluyk,G. M. Salnikov, V. V. Bianki, V. D. Boyarshinov, V. I. Zabelin, R. Mnatsekanov,S. Vershinin, V. A. Telpov, V. P. Kazakov, V. A. Lapushkin, S. V. Fisher, A. V.Boikov, T. O. Barabashin, A. G. Varlamov, D. V. Bogomolov, M. Bubnov, O.N. Orlova, D. A. Solovkov, and O. A. Vitovich.

In addition, we thank the Russian office of Wetlands International for providingall available information on Ramsar Sites in European Russia.

Special thanks should be given to the Secretariat of BirdLife International,and especially to Melanie Heath, Tony Payne and Mike Evans, for their patiencein answering all questions and in resolving problems that occurred during thework.

This review would have been almost impossible without substantialsponsorship from Vogelbescherming Nederland (BirdLife Partner in theNetherlands), the MATRA-Programme of the Netherlands Ministry of Foreign

Affairs, the PIN-Programme of the Netherlands Ministry of Agriculture, NatureConservation and Fisheries, the Netherlands Agricultural Council Moscow(Landbouwraad Moskou), the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (BirdLifePartner in the UK), the Institute of Soviet–American Relations, and the PrinsBernhard Fonds, which all provided special grants for purching equipment, forcoordination and for field projects within the framework variously of the IBAprogramme and of projects on globally threatened species in European Russia.We are especially grateful to Johanna Winkelman for all the practical help inthe project and help in obtaining funds for the Russian IBA programme. ElenaLebedeva and Vladimir Galushin helped in the writing of the overview text. Weare especially thankful also to Sergei Dyluyk and Sergei Bukreev who assisted theIBA Officer during the compilation and checking of the data and of this review,and to Yuri Chernikov, who helped with arrangements for field projects. Ourgreatest regards should be given to Victor Zubakin—the person who initiated theIBA programme in Russia, who supervised this work during the last four years,and who contributed a great deal to the current progress of the programme.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Calidris maritima Purple Sandpiper P 1996 150 800 A A4i, B1iLarus marinus Great Black-backed Gull B 1996 2,100 6,000 A A4i, B1i, B3


Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 80 120 B A1

■ SITE ACCOUNTS

Nemanski forest B2 001Admin region KaliningradCoordinates 55°00’N 22°20’EAltitude 0–50 m Area 17,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis forested area is located within one of the most developed regionsin Russia.

Habitats Forest and woodland (87%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(12%), Wetland (1%)Land-use Agriculture (12%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (10%)

■■■■■ Birds

The best site for breeding raptors in the Kaliningrad region. Breedingspecies of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Aquila clanga (1 pair), Crex crex (5–10 pairs). The only knownbreeding site for Milvus milvus in Russia.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International None

■■■■■ Conservation issues

Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B)

Dal’ni forest A1 002Admin region KaliningradCoordinates 55°12’N 21°20’EAltitude 0–10 m Area 4,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area lies in one of the most developed regions of Russia, and includesmany wet habitat-types, including some that are seasonally wet.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland(10%; humid grassland)Land-use Agriculture (4%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


Crex crex breeds in significant numbers, but another breeding speciesof global conservation concern does not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetusalbicilla (1–3 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None4,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Dyunniy, 8,000 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selectivelogging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

There are plans to create an international (Russian–Lithuanian) naturereserve here, covering the Neman delta.

Ainov islands A4i, B1i, B3 003Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 69°50’N 31°35’EAltitude 0–21 m Area 290 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionTundra islands in the Barents Sea.

Habitats Grassland (90%; humid grassland; tundra), Wetland (11%; tidal river/enclosedtidal water; coastal lagoon; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


The islands support important numbers of breeding Larus marinusand of migrating Calidris maritima.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None290 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kandalakshskiy, 70,500 ha).


Threats Other (U)

Pollution of seawater is a threat (‘Other’ threat, above).

Sem islands A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 004Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 68°45’N 37°30’EAltitude 50–112 m Area 10,667 ha

■■■■■ Site description

Habitats Marine areas (94%; sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (6%; sea cliff/rockyshore)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)

598



Somateria mollissima Eider B 1991 1,407 1,407 A B1iLarus marinus Great Black-backed Gull B 1991 550 550 A B3

Middle reaches A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2 007of the River Ponoy(Zakaznik Ponoyski)Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 67°15’N 37°40’EAltitude 145–340 m Area 98,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of very wet northern taiga with many lakes and rivers, in thecentral part of the Kola peninsula. Land-uses include reindeer-herding.

Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest), Wetland (standing fresh water;river/stream; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (100%), Hunting, Tourism/recreation


Breeding species include two raptors (in significant numbers) as wellas eight of the 15 species in Europe that are restricted to the borealbiome when breeding (no specific counts have been made). Not lessthan 500 Cygnus cygnus, and possibly up to several thousand,congregate prior to migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None98,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ponoysky, 98,600 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesThe extent of the site should possibly be increased so as to includesome part of the surroundings of the Zakaznik, but insufficientornithological data are available to justify this. To obtain furtherinformation, surveys are needed, but this is currently not feasible asthe area is far from any roads and the only access is by helicopter,thus very expensive.

Lapland Biosphere Reserve A3, B2, B3 008Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 67°55’N 32°00’EAltitude 102–1,114 m Area 278,436 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of tundra (some wooded) near the town of Nikel.

Habitats Forest and woodland (63%; mixed forest; wooded tundra), Grassland (19%;tundra), Wetland (12%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Rocky areas (6%;scree/boulders)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Cliffs and rocky shores of tundra islands in the Barents Sea. The IBAcovers 667 ha of land and 10,000 ha of sea.


More than 25,000 pairs of seabirds breed here, comprising mainlyRissa tridactyla.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None10,667 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kandalakshskiy, 70,500 ha).

Coastal belt A4i, B1i 005of eastern MurmanskAdmin region MurmanskCoordinates 68°00’N 39°00’EAltitude 0–0 m Area 260 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionCoastal shallows along the shore of the Barents Sea.

Habitats Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features)


Two eider-duck Somateria species form congregations of up to100,000 individuals in winter. Species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (there is an oldobservation of one breeding pair, but no recent information isavailable).


Watershed of the B1i 006Rivers Strelna and VarzugaAdmin region MurmanskCoordinates 66°30’N 37°40’EAltitude — Area 250,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtremely marshy northern taiga with a large number of lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland (standing fresh water; water-fringevegetation)


Based on data in the previous European IBA inventory (Grimmettand Jones 1989), this is an important breeding and post-breeding sitefor Cygnus cygnus. Breeding species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1 pair). Otherbreeding species include Anser fabalis and Pandion haliaetus (1 pair).


■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo recent information. A Zapovednik (Varzuga, 107,000 ha) wasplanned, but has not yet been created.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Somateria mollissima Eider W 1988 — — — A4i, B1i1 Somateria spectabilis King Eider W 1988 — — — A4i, B1i

1. Up to 100,000 S. mollissima/S. spectabilis.


Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan B 1989 — — — B1i1 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan N 1989 — 500 — B1i

1. Pre-migration gathering.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Aythya marila Scaup B 1995 20 20 C A31 Clangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck B 1995 100 100 C A31 Melanitta nigra Common Scoter B 1995 50 80 C A32 Mergus albellus Smew B 1995 10 20 B A31 Buteo lagopus Rough-legged Buzzard B 1995 10 200 B A3Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover B 1995 500 980 B B3

1,3Calidris minuta Little Stint U 1995 2 7 C A31 Calidris temminckii Temminck’s Stint B 1995 10 10 C A3Limicola falcinellus B 1995 5 — B B2

Broad-billed Sandpiper

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan N 1989 500 — — A4i, B1iMergus albellus Smew B 1995 — — — A3Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1995 9 9 — A1Falco peregrinus Peregrine B 1995 1 10 — B2Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1995 — — — A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1995 — — — A3Bombycilla garrulus Waxwing B 1995 — — — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit R 1995 — — — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1995 — — — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1995 — — — A3Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak B 1995 — — — A3

1. Also breeds, but no accurate counts.

599


Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria2 Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe B 1995 10 10 C A31 Tringa erythropus Spotted Redshank B 1995 200 200 B A32 Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1995 900 900 B A31 Phalaropus lobatus B 1995 200 200 B A3

Red-necked Phalarope2 Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1994 10 800 A A32 Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1995 — 20 B A3Picoides tridactylus R 1995 2,500 3,500 B B2

Three-toed WoodpeckerAnthus pratensis Meadow Pipit B 1995 8,500 15,000 B B3

2 Bombycilla garrulus Waxwing B 1995 100 5,000 B A3Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart B 1995 3,900 7,500 B B2Turdus philomelos Song Thrush B 1995 1,500 1,700 B B3

2 Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1995 — 6,000 B A32 Parus cinctus Siberian Tit R 1995 4,400 10,300 B A32 Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay R 1995 880 2,000 B A3, B22 Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1995 24,000 40,000 B A32 Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1995 2,000 31,000 B A32 Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill B 1995 1,030 4,300 B A3, B32 Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak B 1995 900 5,000 B A31 Calcarius lapponicus Lapland Bunting B 1995 100 100 C A31 Plectrophenax nivalis Snow Bunting B 1995 130 700 B A32 Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1995 2,900 5,500 B A3

1. Arctic/tundra biome.2. Boreal biome.3. Breeding status uncertain (no. of possible pairs given).


Phalacrocorax aristotelis Shag B 1995 200 200 A B3Somateria mollissima Eider R 1995 2,500 2,500 A B1iPolysticta stelleri Steller’s Eider W 1995 2,000 2,000 A A1, A4i, B1iLarus marinus Great Black-backed Gull B 1995 900 900 A B3Alca torda Razorbill B 1995 500 500 A B1iiCepphus grylle Black Guillemot B 1995 800 800 A B1ii, B2


Limicola falcinellus B 1996 — — C B2Broad-billed Sandpiper

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High70,500 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kandalakshskiy, 70,500 ha).208,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Kandalaksha Bay,208,000 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (A),Recreation/tourism (B)

Gavrilovski A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3 010archipelagoAdmin region MurmanskCoordinates 69°10’N 36°00’EAltitude 0–70 m Area 1,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA group of rocky offshore islets, around which the sea does not freezein winter, although situated in the tundra zone.

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features), Rocky areas (seacliff/rocky shore)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Important numbers of the globally threatened Polysticta stelleri winteroffshore, and there are more than 10,000 pairs of nesting waterbirdsand seabirds during the breeding season.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None1,500 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kandalakshskiy, 70,500 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B)

Over-fishing is a problem, reducing the amount of food available forbirds.

Surroundings of Kiyesh’yaur lake B2 011Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 69°02’N 30°08’EAltitude 156–179 m Area 4,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small area of marshy forest in the north-west of the Murmanskregion. The site is a complex of fens, lakes and adjacent raised bogsand transition mires, which differs from the surrounding taiga (asobserved in 1996) not only as a landscape, but also in terms of thebirds it supports. The site is hardly used by local people, only by localhunters and berry-collectors in autumn (no more than 30–40 berrycollectors at any one time).

Habitats Forest and woodland (32%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(73%; standing fresh water; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Not utilized (100%)


The avifauna includes 24 of the 47 species in Europe that are restrictedeither to the Arctic/tundra biome or to the boreal biome when breeding.Significant proportion (≥1%) of national population breeding at site:Aquila chrysaetos (at least 2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High268,400 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Laplandskiy, 268,400 ha).268,400 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Laplandskiy,268,400 ha).


Threats Natural events (C), Extraction industry (C)

Forest fires can be a problem. The IBA lies close to the Monchegorskindustrial area, and parts of the site are affected by pollution from theore industry.

Kandalaksha Bay A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2 009Admin region MurmanskCoordinates 67°02’N 33°18’EAltitude 0–0 m Area 208,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large sea bay with a rocky coastline, and including many islandsand alluvial sand deposits. The islands range from outcrops of rockand low-lying treeless islets to larger islands. There are some lakes onthe larger islands, with coastal meadows and beds of reed Phragmitesand sedge Carex.

Habitats Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (30%; tidal river/enclosed tidalwater; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; river/stream), Marine areas (80%; sea inlet/coastal features)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting, Tourism/recreation


Three species breed in important numbers along this coast, and morethan 20,000 moulting individuals of Somateria mollissima andBucephala clangula congregate offshore after the breeding season.


Somateria mollissima Eider B 1988 — 9,500 — A4i, B1i1 Somateria mollissima Eider N 1988 10,000 12,000 — B1i1 Bucephala clangula Goldeneye N 1988 — 10,000 — A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1988 — 12 — A1, B2Cepphus grylle Black Guillemot B 1988 300 500 — B1ii, B2

1. Moulting.

600



Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan B 1989 1,000 1,000 — A4i, B1i1 Anser anser Greylag Goose B 1989 — — — B1i

1. The most northerly breeding site in Russia.


Podiceps auritus Slavonian Grebe U 1996 — — B A3Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe U 1996 — — C A3Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1996 17 — B A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl U 1996 0 1 — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1996 1 2 B A3Picoides tridactylus R 1996 44 200 B B2

Three-toed WoodpeckerBombycilla garrulus Waxwing B 1996 6 12 B A3Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush B 1996 52 175 B B3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1996 — 50 C A3

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay R 1996 — 140 C A3, B2Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1996 1,300 2,000 B A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1996 2 51 C A3Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill B 1996 2 300 C A3, B3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1996 1,000 1,640 B A3


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 200,000 300,000 A A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 500,000 700,000 A A4i, B1iBranta leucopsis Barnacle Goose P 1997 2,000 3,000 A A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1997 150 500 — A1, B2Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel B 1997 100 200 — B3

The avifauna includes up to 12 of the 15 species in Europe that arerestricted to the boreal biome when breeding.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None10,880 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kivach, 10,880 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo major threats are known.

Olonets plain A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 014Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 60°56’N 32°55’EAltitude 9–59 m Area 18,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionWet agricultural land in the vicinity of the town of Olonets, near theshore of Lake Ladoga.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(raised bog), Artificial landscape (100%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arableland; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (100%), Nature conservation/research (28%)


Hundreds of thousands of geese stage in the area during migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None5,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Olonetsky, 5,000 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Extraction industry (A), Unsustainableexploitation (C)

Palinsaari island B1i, B3 015Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 61°41’N 31°07’EAltitude 33–38 m Area 100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small island near the Valaam archipelago, in the northern part ofLake Ladoga. Human activities include the collection of birds’ eggs(‘Other’ land-use, below).

Habitats Scrub (50%; scrub), Wetland (10%; shingle/stony beach), Rocky areas (40%;rock stacks/islets)Land-use Other (100%), Tourism/recreation (100%)


Significant numbers of two colonial waterbirds breed here.

Limicola falcinellus is thought to breed at this site, although therehave been no certain breeding records (nests discovered) in EuropeanRussia since 1964, due at least partly to the species’s very crypticbehaviour and habit of breeding in colonies of up to 2–6 pairs only.



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Extraction industry (B), Intensified forestmanagement (B), Other (C)

‘Other’ threat refers to a variety of minor problems.

Lakes of northern Karelia A4i, B1i 012Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 66°00’N 33°00’EAltitude — Area 1,000,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionNorthern taiga with a large number of lakes and marshes, includingLakes Keret, Eng, Nizhneye, Kum, and the south-eastern part of LakeTop. The boundaries of the most important wetlands need to bedetermined.

Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland (standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)


Based on data in the previous European IBA inventory (Grimmettand Jones 1989), this is an important breeding site for two wildfowlspecies, and an important staging site for migrating ducks.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International NonePart of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero Keret).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo recent information. The site was included in a plan for aZapovednik in north Karelia.

Kivach Nature Reserve A3, B2, B3 013Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 62°13’N 34°00’EAltitude 50–150 m Area 10,880 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMainly coniferous forests (taiga) lying in the Suna river basin.

Habitats Forest and woodland (89%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest),Wetland (11%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%), Water management (5%)



Larus fuscus B 1997 70 — A B3Lesser Black-backed Gull

Sterna caspia Caspian Tern B 1993 24 24 A B1i

601



Larus minutus Little Gull B 1997 300 600 — A4i, B1i, B2



Threats Afforestation (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Zaonezh’ye A1, A3, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 016Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 62°13’N 34°00’EAltitude 33–202 m Area 330,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionNumerous islands and peninsulas, separated by narrow channels, inLake Onega, to the north of the town of Petrozavodsk.

Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Scrub (5%;scrub), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog; water-fringevegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (12%), Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (20%),Nature conservation/research (35%), Not utilized (30%), Tourism/recreation (50%)


Many species of boreal forest, lake and mire breed, including importantnumbers of one species of global conservation concern, as well as 10of the 15 species in Europe that are restricted to the boreal biomewhen breeding. Seven waterbirds stage in the area in significantnumbers during migration, and the site holds 20,000 or more migratingwaterbirds on a regular basis.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None50,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kizhsky, 50,000 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U), Deforestation (commercial) (A),Intensified forest management (A)

South-eastern coast A4i, B1i, B2 017of Lake LadogaAdmin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 60°50’N 32°40’EAltitude 0–9 m Area 1,250 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionTwo groups of islands together with adjacent mainland shorelines,situated on the south-east coast of Lake Ladoga, south of the mouthof the Olonka river. Reedbeds (Phragmites) and exposed sedimentsfringe the flat, treeless shores. The shape of the coastline and the sizeof the reedbeds and exposed flats vary according to the changing levelof Lake Ladoga.

Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach;water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (100%), Hunting (60%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Not utilized (80%)


Important numbers of Larus minutus breed.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None100 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Andrusovsky, area not known).Part of IBA (mainland shoreline) covered by Zakaznik (Olonetsky,27,000 ha).


Threats Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Onega Bay A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3 018of White SeaAdmin region Karelia Republic, ArkhangelskCoordinates 64°30’N 35°30’EAltitude 0–150 m Area 200,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionIslands situated along the western shore of Onega Bay in the WhiteSea, with extensive foreshore and wet coastal meadow habitats. ‘Other’land-use is seaweed harvesting.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; native coniferous forest; wooded tundra),Grassland (5%; tundra), Wetland (10%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; shingle/stonybeach; river/stream), Marine areas (50%; open sea; sea inlet/coastal features), Rockyareas (15%)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Not utilized (90%), Other (30%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


A number of coastal waterbirds breed in important numbers, notablygull species. The area is an important staging area for migrating Cygnuscygnus, C. columbianus, Branta bernicla, B. leucopsis and other geese


Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver B 1997 300 400 C A4i, B1i1 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1977 1,000 — C A4i, B1i1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1977 5,000 — C A4i, B1iMergus serrator B 1997 1,000 1,800 B A4i, B1i

Red-breasted MerganserTetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1997 5,000 6,000 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 120 1,000 C A1, B2Grus grus Crane B 1997 150 300 C B1iGrus grus Crane P 1997 600 800 C B1i

1 Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover P 1976 20,000 — B A4i, B1i1 Vanellus vanellus Lapwing P 1976 10,000 70,000 C A4i, B1iLymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe B 1997 — — — A3Numenius arquata Curlew B 1997 — 1,500 C A4i, B1i

1 Numenius arquata Curlew P 1977 3,500 — C A4i, B1iTringa nebularia Greenshank B 1997 100 — — A3Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper B 1997 5,000 6,000 B A4i, B1iActitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper P 1997 — 30,000 C A4i, B1iLarus canus Common Gull B 1997 5,000 8,000 B A4i, B1i, B2Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull B 1997 200 300 B B3Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1997 — 2,000 B A4i, B1iColumba palumbus Woodpigeon B 1997 3,000 4,000 C B3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl B 1997 1 — — A3Jynx torquilla Wryneck B 1997 500 1,000 C B2Picoides tridactylus R 1976 100 — C B2

Three-toed WoodpeckerAlauda arvensis Skylark B 1997 15,000 16,000 C B2Bombycilla garrulus Waxwing B 1976 50 100 — A3Saxicola rubetra Whinchat B 1997 2,000 2,500 C B3Turdus philomelos Song Thrush B 1997 15,000 20,000 B B3Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1997 1,000 2,000 C B3Sylvia borin Garden Warbler B 1997 10,000 20,000 B B3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1997 100 150 C A3Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1997 300 1,000 C B2Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1997 — — C A3Fringilla coelebs Chaffinch B 1997 100,000 120,000 B B3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1997 5,000 10,000 B A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1986 — 1,500 C A3Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill B 1986 200 1,500 C A3, B3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1997 10,000 15,000 B A3

1. No counts available for 1997 migration. Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Somateria mollissima Eider W 1988 20,000 — C B1iArenaria interpres Turnstone B 1995 320 350 A A4i, B1iStercorarius parasiticus Arctic Skua B 1995 80 100 A B1iiLarus canus Common Gull B 1995 3,800 4,000 A B1i, B2Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull B 1995 1,000 1,000 A B1i, B3Larus argentatus Herring Gull B 1995 5,000 5,100 A B1iLarus marinus Great Black-backed Gull B 1995 90 100 A B3

602



Polysticta stelleri Steller’s Eider N 1996 5 1,000 B A1, A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 3 5 B A1Larus canus Common Gull B 1994 650 900 B B2Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull B 1996 340 650 A B3Sterna paradisaea Arctic Tern B 1994 4,000 10,500 A A4i, B1iCepphus grylle Black Guillemot R 1996 388 390 A B1ii, B2


Anser erythropus P 1995 1 20 — A1Lesser White-fronted Goose

Picoides tridactylus B 1995 415 — — B2Three-toed Woodpecker

and ducks, but no detailed information is available at present, althoughit is certain that more than 20,000 waterbirds are present regularly onmigration. In winter, at least 20,000 Somateria mollissima congregatein the area.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International LowPart of IBA covered by two Zakazniks (Kemskie Shkhery; Kuzova).3,600 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Islands in Onega Bay (WhiteSea), 3,600 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Pinezhski Nature Reserve A1, B2 019Admin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 64°40’N 43°20’EAltitude — Area 41,244 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of coniferous forest near the town of Pinega, within the taigazone. Pine Pinus and spruce Picea cover the majority of the area, withbirch Betula on recently logged sites. Small raised bogs occurthroughout the forest.

Habitats Forest and woodland (87%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(8%; river/stream; raised bog)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


The globally threatened Anser erythropus occurs on passage.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None41,244 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Pinezhskiy, 41,244 ha).

Solovetski A1, A4i, B1i, B1ii, B2, B3 020archipelagoAdmin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 65°05’N 35°45’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 34,700 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located on the northern edge of Onega Bay, and forms acomplex with Onezhskaya Guba in the White Sea. The archipelagoconsists of several large islands surrounded by marine shallows, withextensive shorelines, beaches and coastal meadows.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; wooded tundra), Grassland (tundra), Wetland(38%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog;fen/transition mire/spring), Marine areas (15%; open sea; sea inlet/coastal features),Rocky areas), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Forestry (80%), Nature conservation/research (90%), Tourism/recreation (30%)


A variety of coastal species breed in significant numbers, and non-breeding individuals of the globally threatened Polysticta stellericongregate here.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High34,700 ha of IBA covered by Historical Cultural and Natural Complex(Solovetsky, 34,700 ha). 34,700 ha of IBA covered by World HeritageSite (Solovetski, 34,700 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesSolovetski archipelago is protected for its cultural value and is includedon the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites for this reason.

Torna–Shoina A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 021watershedAdmin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 68°00’N 44°15’EAltitude 0–2 m Area 15,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site is located about 420 km south-east of Arkhangelsk, on theeastern coast of the Kanin peninsula, and covers the watersheds ofthe Torna and Shoina rivers, with the latter forming the southernboundary of the site. Low-lying wetland habitats consist of mudflats,coastal marshes, dunes and estuaries. Adjacent to these lies a 2–5 mhigh terrace covered by tundra vegetation. The state reindeer farmlegally owns the area, but no habitat-damage is apparent.

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Wetland (tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat;sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water)Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting


Breeding species in significant numbers include three wildfowl species.Tens of thousands of geese Anser stage in the area during migration,in particular the globally threatened Anser erythropus occurs in verysignificant numbers. A total of 30,000 small waders (Calidris minuta,C. ferruginea, C. alpina) congregate here during spring and autumnmigration, and at least 1,000 moulting seaduck of four species alsooccur. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBAcriteria: Polysticta stelleri (on migration; numbers almost certainlywould meet criteria, but no systematic counts yet).



Threats Unsustainable exploitation (U)

The area has been included on a ‘shadow list’ of potential RamsarSites.

Delta of River A4i, A4iii, B1i 022Severnaya DvinaAdmin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 64°30’N 40°20’EAltitude 8–50 m Area 50,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe delta of the River Severnaya Dvina at the White Sea, containingnumerous meanders and islands.


Anser erythropus P 1995 1,500 — C A1, A4i, B1iLesser White-fronted Goose

Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose B 1994 — 2,000 B A4i, B1i, B31 Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose P 1995 — — B A4i, B1i1 Branta bernicla Brent Goose P 1995 — — B A4i, B1iAnas acuta Pintail B 1995 — 3,000 B B1i, B2Aythya marila Scaup B 1995 — 3,000 B A4i, B1i

1. Up to 80,000 B. leucopsis/B. bernicla.

603


Habitats Forest and woodland (alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (humid grassland),Wetland (tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach;coastal lagoon; river/stream; raised bog), Artificial landscape (arable land)Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Hunting (30%), Not utilized,Urban/industrial/transport


Very large numbers of wildfowl regularly occur on passage, especiallyCygnus columbianus and geese Anser.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NoneThe IBA overlaps with Zakaznik (Dvinskoi, area not known).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (A), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Lake Lacha A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 023Admin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 61°20’N 38°35’EAltitude 118–120 m Area 53,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large lake in the south of the Arkhangelsk region, surrounded byvery wet forest and bogs.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (10%; scrub),Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Artificial landscape (15%;arable land; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (60%), Forestry (10%), Not utilized(20%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Huge numbers of wildfowl regularly stage at the site during migration(geese Anser) or gather on the lake after the breeding season (up to40,000 duck, notably Anas clypeata). Crex crex breeds, as do importantnumbers of two gull Larus species. Species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (more than2 breeding pairs; 7–10 birds on passage).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None20,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Lachskiy Hunting Reserve,20,000 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (B), Deforestation(commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (B), Forest grazing (C),Industrialization/urbanization (C), Infrastructure (C), Intensified forest management (C), Naturalevents (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Irregular flooding is a threat (‘Natural events’, above).

Kenozer’ye A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 024Admin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 61°55’N 38°07’EAltitude 120–229 m Area 180,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive tracts of coniferous forest, as well as six large lakes, in themiddle zone of the taiga.

Habitats Forest and woodland (55%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Scrub (5%;scrub), Wetland (35%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Artificial landscape(10%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (20%),Nature conservation/research (20%), Not utilized (60%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Many species of boreal forest, lake and mire breed here, includingtwo species of global conservation concern, as well as up to nine ofthe 15 species in Europe that are restricted to the boreal biome whenbreeding. Three waterbirds stage in the area in significant numbersduring migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None139,200 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Kenozyerskiy,139,200 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Firewoodcollection (B), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (A), Recreation/tourism (C),Selective logging/cutting (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Bezymyannaya A1, A4i, A4ii, B1i, B1ii, B3 025and Gribovaya Baysand adjoining watersAdmin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 72°55’N 53°05’EAltitude 0–816 m Area 140,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area on the north-west shore of the southernmost island in theNovaya Zemlya archipelago.

Habitats Grassland (70%; tundra), Marine areas (30%; open sea; sea inlet/coastal features)Land-use Military (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan P 1997 1,000 9,000 — A4i, B1i1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 — — — A4i, B1i1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 — — — A4i, B1iBranta leucopsis Barnacle Goose P 1997 5,000 8,000 — A4i, B1iBranta bernicla Brent Goose P 1997 15,000 25,000 — A4i, B1i

1. 52,000–80,000 A. fabalis/A. albifrons.


Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1997 300 2,000 B A4i, B1i1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1996 — — B A4i, B1i1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 — — B A4i, B1iAnas clypeata Shoveler N 1997 600 1,000 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1997 10 30 C A1Larus minutus Little Gull B 1997 500 800 B A4i, B1i, B2Larus canus Common Gull B 1997 1,500 — C B2

1. Up to 30,000 A. fabalis/A. albifrons.


Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver B 1997 300 400 B A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1997 100 800 C A4i, B1iBucephala clangula Goldeneye P 1997 2,000 3,500 C B1iMergus albellus Smew U 1997 10 50 C A3Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1997 4 6 B A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 50 100 B A1Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe U 1997 — — — A3Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1997 100 300 C A3Tringa nebularia Greenshank P 1997 1,500 3,000 C A4i, B1iLarus minutus Little Gull B 1997 150 200 B B2Larus canus Common Gull B 1997 1,500 2,000 B B2Columba palumbus Woodpigeon B 1997 1,500 3,000 B B3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1997 20 40 — A3Picoides tridactylus R 1997 200 400 C B2

Three-toed WoodpeckerBombycilla garrulus Waxwing R 1997 50 300 B A3Saxicola rubetra Whinchat B 1997 1,000 — C B3Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush B 1997 100 — C B3Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1997 1,500 2,000 B B3Fringilla coelebs Chaffinch B 1997 100,000 120,000 B B3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1997 2,000 5,000 B A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill R 1997 100 200 — A3Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill R 1997 500 600 B A3, B3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1997 8,000 10,000 — A3

604


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Polysticta stelleri Steller’s Eider N 1994 300 — B A1, A4i, B1iCalidris maritima Purple Sandpiper B 1994 10 — C B3Uria lomvia Brünnich’s Guillemot B 1995 140,000 315,000 A A4ii, B1iiCepphus grylle Black Guillemot B 1995 118 118 A B1ii

1. Single count.


Uria lomvia Brünnich’s Guillemot B 1996 73,200 131,200 A A4ii, B1ii


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1997 15 17 A A1, B2Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle B 1990 3 8 B B2


The IBA is important for its non-breeding population of the globallythreatened Polysticta stelleri, and for the large breeding colony of Urialomvia. Current data for the site are incomplete, and further researchis required. Ornithological data from the 1940s are available, forcomparative purposes.



Threats Other (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Radioactive contamination is a problem (‘Other’ threat). During recentyears attempts have been made, with international support, to establishNovozemelskiy Strict Nature Reserve (Zapovednik). The area wasdesignated as a Zapovednik up until the mid-1950s, when a lot ofZapovedniks lost their official status.

Arkhangelskaya Bay A4ii, B1ii 026Admin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 75°50’N 59°00’EAltitude 0–500 m Area 1,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area lies on the north-west shore of the northernmost island inthe Novaya Zemlya archipelago.

Habitats Grassland (90%; tundra), Rocky areas (10%; sea cliff/rocky shore)Land-use Military (100%)


An important seabird breeding colony, which holds very large numbersof Uria lomvia. Other breeding seabirds include Larus hyperboreus,Rissa tridactyla, Cepphus grylle, Alle alle and Fratercula arctica.



Threats Other (A)

The IBA is threatened by radioactive pollution. Ornithological dataare incomplete for the site, and further survey work is required. Aninternational fauna monitoring project is being carried out by Russianand Norwegian biologists.

Kargopol’ area A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 027Admin region ArkhangelskCoordinates 61°50’N 38°55’EAltitude 128–186 m Area 175,000 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Wetland (40%; raised bog; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificiallandscape (8%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (8%), Forestry (70%), Hunting (99%), Nature conservation/research (15%)

Lying near to the town of Kargopol in the south of the Arkhangelskregion, habitats in the area include agricultural fields surrounded byfens and raised bogs.


The site is a gathering point for more Grus grus than any other site inEuropean Russia during the autumn migration, and also holds veryimportant numbers of the globally threatened Anser erythropus.The globally threatened Crex crex breeds in good numbers, as doesTetrao tetrix.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None23,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Filatovskiy, 23,600 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (C),Recreation/tourism (C)

A decline in arable cropping may have an negative effect on the numbersof Grus grus which gather here on passage, as cereal grain is their mainfood source.

Vodlozero A1, B2 028Admin region Arkhangelsk, Karelia RepublicCoordinates 62°35’N 36°55’EAltitude 140–218 m Area 200,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA complex of habitats typical of the middle zone of the taiga.

Habitats Forest and woodland (49%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Scrub (2%;scrub), Wetland (48%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog; water-fringevegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (4%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Hunting (20%), Nature conservation/research (100%),Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


Two eagle species breed in significant numbers. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga(status unknown).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None180,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Vodlozerskiy, 468,340 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Afforestation (C),Aquaculture/fisheries (A), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C),Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B)

Vashutkiny, Padimeyskiye A4i, A4iii, B1i 029and Khargeyskiye lakesAdmin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 68°00’N 62°00’EAltitude — Area 25,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA lake system in the Bolshezemelskaya tundra.


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1996 30,000 — B A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 70,000 — B A4i, B1iAnser erythropus P 1996 — 1,000 C A1, A4i, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseTetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1991 500 1,000 C B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 200 200 A A1Grus grus Crane P 1996 4,000 10,000 A A4i, B1iLarus canus Common Gull P 1996 20,000 40,000 B A4i, B1iBubo bubo Eagle Owl R 1991 10 20 C B2

605


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose N 1989 50,000 50,000 — A4i, B1i

1. Moulting.


Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan B 1989 — — — A4i, B1iBranta leucopsis Barnacle Goose P 1989 — — — B1i

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Wetland (standing fresh water)


An important breeding and moulting area for Anser fabalis and ducks(80,000–100,000), according to the previous pan-European IBAinventory (Grimmett and Jones 1989). No updated information.


■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo recent information.

Vaygach island A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 030Admin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 70°00’N 59°30’EAltitude 0–170 m Area 340,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large tundra island located just off the mainland, north of the Uralmountains. Human activities include reindeer herding.

Habitats Grassland (100%; tundra)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (90%)


The breeding avifauna includes five of the 32 species in Europe thatare restricted to the Arctic/tundra biome when breeding, and hugenumbers of waterfowl overall. The northern third of the island is themost important for bird conservation. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla(at least 4 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None340,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Vaigach, 340,000 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Varandeyskaya Lapta peninsula A4iii 031Admin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 68°49’N 59°00’EAltitude — Area 350,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA low-lying peninsula with numerous lakes that are connected bychannels with each other and to the Pechora Sea.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water)

■■■■■ BirdsOne of the most important sites in north European Russia for breedingswans, geese, and ducks, and for moulting swans (2,000), geese (30,000–40,000), and ducks (100,000). Recent count data are not available forany bird species.


■■■■■ Conservation issuesProposed as a Ramsar Site. No recent information.

River Chernaya A4iii 032Admin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 68°07’N 57°00’EAltitude — Area 200,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLow-lying marshy tundra with lakes.

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation)

■■■■■ BirdsImportant for breeding and moulting swans (500), geese (20,000–30,000), and diving ducks (20,000). Recent count data are not availablefor any bird species.



Southern coast of Cheshskaya Bay B1i 033Admin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 66°49’N 46°30’EAltitude 0–0 m Area —

■■■■■ Site descriptionLow-lying coastal tundra in the vicinity of the Rivers Snopa, Oma,Vizha and Perepusk.

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream)

■■■■■ BirdsLarge numbers of geese and ducks occur on passage. The B1i criterionis applied at site-level rather than at species-level, as recent count dataare not available for any bird species. The site may also prove to fulfilthe A4i criterion once systematic counts have been made.



Kanin peninsula A4i, A4iii, B1i 034Admin region Arkhangelsk, NenetskiCoordinates 66°40’N 44°40’EAltitude — Area 500,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMarshy, low-lying tundra with numerous rivers, lakes and channelsbetween the Rivers Yazhma and Nyes.

Habitats Grassland (tundra), Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation)

■■■■■ BirdsA breeding area for Cygnus columbianus and geese. Very large numbersof geese moult (50,000), and swans and geese (including Brantaleucopsis) occur on passage. There are no recent counts for any species.


Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan B — — 75,000 — A3, A4i, B1iAnser fabalis Bean Goose B 1987 — 33,000 — A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose B 1984 — 100,000 — A3, A4i, B1iBranta leucopsis Barnacle Goose B 1987 2,500 3,000 — A3, A4i, B1i, B3Clangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck B 1987 20,000 — — A3, A4i, B1iMergus merganser Goosander B 1987 2,500 3,000 — A4i, B1iFalco peregrinus Peregrine B 1991 10 10 — B2Nyctea scandiaca Snowy Owl B 1991 5 — — A3, B2

606


(individuals/km2), including geese, dabbling ducks, and seaduck suchas Clangula hyemalis. These extrapolated totals are very approximatebut allow preliminary identification of important species. After thebreeding season, up to 10,000 moulting swans (Cygnus columbianusand C. cygnus) congregate in the area.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None299,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Nenetski, 440,000 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

A proposal has been put forward for the designation of a Zapovednikin the area (Nenetski). A scientific research programme is ongoing inconjunction with Groningen University (The Netherlands).

Middle reaches of A1, A3 037Bolshaya Rogovaya riverAdmin region NenetskiCoordinates 67°04’N 62°02’EAltitude 20–70 m Area 35,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionWet, wooded tundra and fens along a river valley in the southerntundra subzone.

Habitats Forest and woodland (13%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (55%; tundra),Wetland (12%; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Unknown (95%)


Nine of the 32 species in Europe that are restricted to the Arctic/tundrabiome (when breeding) breed at the site in significant numbers,including the globally threatened Anser erythropus.



Threats Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C)

Pechoro-Ilychski A1, B2 038Nature ReserveAdmin region Komi RepublicCoordinates 62°30’N 59°00’EAltitude 160–1,195 m Area 705,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionNorthern taiga forests in the upper reaches of the Pechora river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; native coniferous forest), Grassland (2%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (5%; river/stream; raised bog), Rocky areas (8%; scree/boulders)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)

■■■■■ BirdsSignificant numbers of two raptors breed in the area.



Khaypudyrskaya Bay A4i, A4iii, B1i 035(islands of B. Zelenets,Dolgi, Matveyev)Admin region NenetskiCoordinates 68°55’N 59°50’EAltitude 0–30 m Area 20,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA shallow bay with extensive mudflats, surrounded by marshy tundraand a number of lakes.

Habitats Grassland (10%; tundra), Wetland (70%; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sandbeach; shingle/stony beach; coastal lagoon; river/stream), Marine areas (20%; open sea)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (15%), Hunting (10%), Not utilized (75%)


Migrating waterfowl occur in very large numbers, including up to20,000 geese (Anser fabalis and A. albifrons), up to 80,000 eider duck(Somateria mollissima and S. spectabilis) and up to 40,000 other seaduck(Aythya marila, Clangula hyemalis, Melanitta nigra and M. fusca).



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Russki Zavorot peninsula A3, A4i, A4iii, 036Admin region Nenetski B1i, B2Coordinates 68°35’N 53°30’EAltitude 1–139 m Area 299,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area covers the northern part of the Russki Zavorot peninsula.Extensive marine shallows and low-lying tundra with numerous smalllakes connected by channels.

Habitats Grassland (75%; tundra), Wetland (40%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water;standing fresh water; river/stream)Land-use Agriculture (50%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Hunting (100%)


The breeding avifauna includes five species (all waterbirds) out ofthe 32 in Europe that are restricted to the Arctic/tundra biome whenbreeding. Very large numbers of waterbirds breed in the area (morethan 20,000 individuals), based on extrapolations from count data


Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1992 300 — — B1i1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1992 — — — A4i, B1i1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1992 — — — A4i, B1i2 Somateria mollissima Eider P 1992 — — — A4i, B1i2 Somateria spectabilis King Eider P 1992 — — — A4i, B1i

1. Up to 20,000 A. fabalis/A. albifrons.2. Up to 80,000 S. mollissima/S. spectabilis.


Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver B 1996 500 — C A4i, B1iCygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan B 1996 60 — C A3, A4i, B1iAnser fabalis Bean Goose B 1996 — 1,700 C A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose B 1996 2,500 — — A3, B1iAnas acuta Pintail B 1996 — 6,500 C A4i, B1i, B2Aythya marila Scaup B 1996 — 8,500 C A3, A4i, B1iSomateria spectabilis King Eider B 1996 — 3,000 C A3, A4i, B1iClangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck B 1996 8,000 — C A3Bucephala clangula Goldeneye B 1996 1,000 — C B1i


Anser erythropus B 1990 30 30 B A1, A3Lesser White-fronted Goose

Aythya marila Scaup B 1990 50 70 B A3Melanitta nigra Common Scoter B 1990 100 120 B A3

1 Calidris minuta Little Stint B 1990 — — — A31 Calidris temminckii Temminck’s Stint B 1990 — — — A3Phalaropus lobatus B 1990 100 120 B A3

Red-necked PhalaropeStercorarius longicaudus Long-tailed Skua B 1990 10 15 B A3

1 Anthus cervinus Red-throated Pipit B 1990 — — — A3Calcarius lapponicus Lapland Bunting B 1990 300 400 B A3

1. No special counts.

607



Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 8 11 A A1, B2Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 2 4 B B2

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High705,500 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Pechoro–Ilychskiy,721,322 ha). 705,500 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve(Pechoro–Ilychskiy, 721,322 ha). 705,500 ha of IBA covered by WorldHeritage Site (Virgin Komi Forest, 3,280,000 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Hunting, forestry and fishery activities take place in the buffer zone(650,000 ha) surrounding the site.

Yugyd Va A1, A3, B1i, B2 039Admin region Komi RepublicCoordinates 64°30’N 58°40’EAltitude 120–1,820 m Area 1,926,489 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionHabitats are characteristic of the subpolar region of the northern Uralmountains.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(20%; humid grassland; tundra), Wetland (30%; river/stream; raised bog; fen/transitionmire/spring), Rocky areas (25%)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (100%),Tourism/recreation (60%), Water management (20%)


Breeding species include 11 of the 15 species in Europe that are restrictedto the boreal biome when breeding (no abundance counts have beenmade), as well as significant numbers of Gallinago media and of raptors.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None1,926,489 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Yugyd Va, 1,926,489 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Extraction industry (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Valley of Sysola river A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2 040Admin region Komi RepublicCoordinates 61°08’N 50°17’EAltitude — Area 110,000 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (30%; humid grassland), Wetland (4%; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (50%; highly improved reseededgrassland; arable land; urban parks/gardens)

Land-use Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%)

A valley to the south of the town of Syktyvkar. The area is highlydeveloped.


The globally threatened Anser erythropus stages in important numberson passage. Two species of global conservation concern breed in thearea, as do 11 of the 15 species in Europe that are restricted to the borealbiome (when breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Abkedzhskiy, 500 ha). 30 ha ofIBA covered by Zakaznik (Bolotniy, Bortom Baza, 43 ha). 12 ha ofIBA covered by Natural Monument (Gorsibskiy, 12 ha). 120 ha ofIBA covered by Natural Monument (Kadzheromskiy, 120 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Drainage (C),Infrastructure (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The site is also adjacent to Vizingskiy Zakaznik (9,400 ha).

Kilpola island and adjoining waters B1i 041Admin region Karelia RepublicCoordinates 61°49’N 31°40’EAltitude — Area 30,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionShallows with small islands in Lake Ladoga, east of the Gulf of Finland.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water)

■■■■■ BirdsAn important area for diving duck during migration. The B1i criterionis applied at site-level rather than at species-level, as recent count dataare not available for any bird species. The site may also prove to fulfilthe A4i criterion once systematic counts have been made.


■■■■■ Conservation issuesNo recent information. A seasonal nature reserve (Zakaznik) has beenproposed.

Mouth of Svir river A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 042Admin region LeningradCoordinates 60°35’N 32°56’EAltitude 14–40 m Area 65,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionShallow waters around the mouth of the Svir river, where it entersLake Ladoga.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 15 20 B A1, B2Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 100 200 B A1, B1iSurnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1996 — — — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1996 — — — A3Bombycilla garrulus Waxwing B — — — — A3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1996 Common — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit B 1996 Common — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1996 — — — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1996 Common — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1996 — — — A3Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak B 1996 — — — A3Calcarius lapponicus Lapland Bunting B 1996 — — — A3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1996 — — — A3

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaPodiceps auritus Slavonian Grebe B 1996 15 30 — A3Anser erythropus P 1996 50 150 — A1, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 200 350 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 20 30 B A1Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1996 1,000 — — A3, A4i, B1iSurnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1996 40 80 — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1996 5 15 — A3Bombycilla garrulus Waxwing B 1996 200 600 — A3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1996 2,200 — — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit R 1996 100 200 — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay R 1996 80 120 — A3, B2Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1996 2,000 2,100 — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1996 500 3,000 — A3

1 Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill U 1996 — — — A3

1. No counts of abundance.

608



Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 20 — — A1Grus grus Crane B 1996 100 — — B1i

Habitats Forest and woodland (52%; native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Wetland (44%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (4%; highly improved reseeded grassland;arable land)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (15%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (20%),Nature conservation/research (65%)


Significant numbers of a variety of birds breed in the area, mainlywaterbirds and including four species of global conservation concern.Large numbers of wildfowl stage in the area during migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High41,436 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Nizhne-Svirskiy,41,436 ha). 60,500 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Svir Delta,60,500 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (C),Industrialization/urbanization (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C)

The reduction in the area of agricultural land is negatively affectinggeese and Grus grus which forage on this habitat during migration.

Rakovye lakes A1, A4iii, B1i 043Admin region LeningradCoordinates 60°38’N 29°25’EAltitude 34–43 m Area 9,700 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of lakes formed from abandoned areas of peat-mining.

Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest), Wetland (70%; standing freshwater; fen/transition mire/spring)


An important site for breeding Crex crex and Grus grus. Therehave been few counts of individual species, but in total up to 6,000 geese (mainly Anser fabalis and A. albifrons), 50,000 dabbling ducks(Anas spp.) and 150,000 diving ducks congregate in the area duringautumn and spring migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None6,142 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Rakovie Ozera, 6,142 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (U), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U),Disturbance to birds (U), Drainage (U), Intensified forest management (U),Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Berezovye islands A4i, A4iii, B1i 044of Vyborg BayAdmin region LeningradCoordinates 60°18’N 29°00’EAltitude 0–43 m Area 12,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis area encompasses shallow waters, inlets, small bays and severalsmall islands located near Vyborg Bay in the Gulf of Finland, south-west of the town of Primorsk.

Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland (70%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; shingle/stony beach; coastal lagoon; raised bog)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Tourism/recreation


The area holds huge congregations of waterbirds during migration,including up to 500,000 wildfowl and up to 100,000 waders duringmigration, with Anas penelope, A. acuta, A. querquedula, Charadriushiaticula, Calidris minuta, Calidris temminckii, Calidris alpina,Gallinago gallinago, Numenius phaeopus and N. arquata being amongthe most numerous species.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High12,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Berezovye Ostrova, 12,000 ha).12,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Berezovye Islands,12,000 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesThe building of a harbour with oil terminals poses a major threat tothis IBA.

Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Dredging/canalization (U),Infrastructure (A), Intensified forest management (U)

Koporski Bay A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 045Admin region LeningradCoordinates 59°47’N 28°45’EAltitude 0–0 m Area 6,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site comprises a number of sandy beaches partly covered byreedbeds, in the Gulf of Finland.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; mixed forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Wetland (90%;tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastallagoon; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (80%), Hunting (90%), Military (10%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1995 500 1,100 C A4i, B1iAnser fabalis Bean Goose P 1996 1,000 3,000 C B1iAnser erythropus P 1996 8 30 C A1

Lesser White-fronted GooseMelanitta nigra Common Scoter P 1996 10,000 25,000 C A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 3 4 A A1Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1996 10 140 C B3Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 10 100 C A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 10 60 C A1Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel B 1995 400 500 C B3Larus minutus Little Gull B 1995 20 130 C B2Acrocephalus scirpaceus B 1995 — 2,000 C B3

Reed WarblerLoxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill B 1995 — 100 C B3


Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver P 1996 20,000 40,000 — A4i, B1i1 Podiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe P 1996 — — — B1iCygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan P 1996 — 5,000 — A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1996 15,000 25,000 — A4i, B1i

2 Branta leucopsis Barnacle Goose P 1996 — — — A4i, B1i2 Branta bernicla Brent Goose P 1996 — — — A4i, B1iAythya fuligula Tufted Duck P 1996 100,000 200,000 A A4i, B1iAythya marila Scaup P 1996 100,000 300,000 A A4i, B1iClangula hyemalis Long-tailed Duck P 1996 300,000 400,000 A A4i, B1iMelanitta nigra Common Scoter P 1996 300,000 400,000 A A4i, B1iMelanitta fusca Velvet Scoter P 1996 100,000 200,000 A A4i, B1iBucephala clangula Goldeneye P 1996 150,000 200,000 A A4i, B1i

3 Mergus serrator P 1996 — — B A4i, B1iRed-breasted Merganser

3 Mergus merganser Goosander P 1996 — — — A4i, B1iLarus ridibundus Black-headed Gull P 1996 — 200,000 A A4i, B1iLarus canus Common Gull P 1996 — 100,000 A A4i, B1iLarus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull P 1996 — 50,000 A A4i, B1iLarus argentatus Herring Gull P 1996 — 100,000 A A4i, B1i

1. Up to 2,000 P. cristatus/P. grisegena.2. Up to 70,000 B. leucopsis/B. bernicla.3. Up to 15,000 M. serrator/M. merganser.

609


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1989 — — — B1i

1. Large numbers.


Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan P 1997 200 500 B A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1997 1,000 2,000 B A4i, B1iAnser erythropus P 1997 15 30 B A1

Lesser White-fronted GooseAnas penelope Wigeon B 1997 2,000 5,000 B B1iAnas crecca Teal B 1997 5,000 10,000 B A4i, B1iAnas acuta Pintail B 1997 500 1,000 B B1iAythya marila Scaup P 1997 5,000 10,000 B A4i, B1iMelanitta nigra Common Scoter P 1997 20,000 50,000 B A4i, B1iBucephala clangula Goldeneye B 1997 1,000 2,000 B A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle P 1997 10 15 B A1Tringa totanus Redshank B 1997 300 500 B B2Larus minutus Little Gull B 1997 200 600 B A4i, B1i, B2Larus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull B 1997 500 1,000 B B1i, B3Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1997 50 150 B B1i, B2Acrocephalus scirpaceus Reed Warbler B 1997 200 500 B B3


The site regularly holds more than 20,000 waterfowl during both thebreeding and migration seasons, including important numbers of manyindividual species.



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

Lake Vyalye B1i 046and adjoining marshesAdmin region LeningradCoordinates 59°10’N 30°10’EAltitude — Area 20,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA freshwater lake and low-lying marshes.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)


Based on data in the previous pan-European IBA inventory (Grimmettand Jones 1989), this is an important staging site for Anser albifrons.Breeding species include Grus grus.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NonePart of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero Vyalye).


Narva reservoir A4iii 047Admin region LeningradCoordinates 59°19’N 28°15’EAltitude — Area 20,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA reservoir with a hydroelectric power station.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water)Land-use Water management

■■■■■ BirdsAn important breeding site for ducks (25,000 pairs). Recent count dataare not available for any species.



Kurgalski peninsula A4i, A4iii, B1i 048Admin region LeningradCoordinates 59°38’N 28°09’EAltitude 1–45 m Area 27,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area comprises the Kurgalski peninsula together with thesurrounding shallow waters of the Baltic Sea.

Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland (humidgrassland), Wetland (mudflat/sandflat; coastal lagoon), Marine areas (sea inlet/coastalfeatures)Land-use Unknown


A very important staging area for waterbirds on passage, with up to100,000 swans Cygnus, hundreds of thousands of geese, 1,200,000 ducks,100,000 waders and 1,000,000 gulls regularly occurring here duringspring and autumn migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International High27,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Kurgalsky peninsula,65,000 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (U)

Swans area A4i, A4iii, B1i 049(southern shore of Finski Bay)Admin region LeningradCoordinates 60°00’N 29°15’EAltitude 0–3 m Area 6,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionShallow waters along the southern shore of Finski Bay (Gulf ofFinland) in the Baltic Sea.

Habitats Forest and woodland, Wetland, Marine areas (open sea; sea inlet/coastalfeatures)


This is one of the most important sites on the White Sea–Baltic Seaflyway, with up to 25,000 swans (Cygnus olor, C. columbianus, C. cygnus),100,000 ducks and 200,000 gulls staging here regularly on migration,mainly in spring.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Cygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan P 1996 — 4,000 — A4i, B1i1 Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1996 5,000 — — A4i, B1i

1. Up to 25,000 Cygnus in total.


Gavia arctica Black-throated Diver P 1993 10,000 20,000 — A4i, B1iCygnus columbianus Bewick’s Swan P 1993 50,000 — — A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1993 50,000 — — A4i, B1iMergus serrator Red-breasted Merganser P 1993 — 20,000 — A4i, B1iMergus merganser Goosander P 1993 — 10,000 — A4i, B1iLarus canus Common Gull P 1996 300,000 — — A4i, B1iLarus fuscus Lesser Black-backed Gull P 1996 150,000 — — A4i, B1iLarus argentatus Herring Gull P 1996 400,000 — — A4i, B1iLarus marinus Great Black-backed Gull P 1996 50,000 — — A4i, B1i

610



Crex crex Corncrake B 1991 15 50 C A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1991 20 40 C A1Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1991 200 300 C B2


Anser erythropus P 1993 15 20 C A1Lesser White-fronted Goose

Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 1,500 2,500 B A1, B2Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 200 300 C A1, A4i, B1i


The area is important for three species of global conservation concern.It holds 20,000 or more migrating waterfowl on a regular basis, mainlyAnas penelope, A. crecca, A. platyrhynchos, A. querquedula, A. clypeataand Aythya fuligula. Breeding species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1–2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None8,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Novgorodsky, 8,600 ha).9,460 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Vostochno–Ilmensky, 9,460 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Intensified forestmanagement (C), Recreation/tourism (B)

Pereluchski Nature Reserve A1, B2 052Admin region NovgorodCoordinates 58°13’N 34°36’EAltitude — Area 6,425 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large lake formed by the flooding of the Uver, S’ezha and Medvedkarivers.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%), Grassland (15%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%;standing fresh water; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (17%; arable land;urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (70%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


Three flood-plain species breed in significant numbers, two of the threebeing species of global conservation concern.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None6,425 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Pereluchsky, 6,425 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Deforestation (commercial) (A),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Flood-plain of Volkhov river A1, A4i, B1i 053Admin region NovgorodCoordinates 59°10’N 31°50’EAltitude 18–32 m Area 17,650 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA partly forested flood-plain containing a system of small lakes, withscrub present in very wet areas.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (30%;standing fresh water; raised bog), Artificial landscape (10%)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (95%), Not utilized (20%)

■■■■■ BirdsThree species of global conservation concern breed in significantnumbers, including two globally threatened species.

6,400 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Lebyazhiy Hunting Reserve,6,400 ha). 6,400 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (‘Southern coastof the Gulf of Finland, Baltic Sea’, 6,400 ha).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesData are incomplete for individual bird species, and further surveywork is required.

Chudsko-Pskovski lake A1, A4i, A4iii, A4iv, 050and adjacent areas B1i, B1ivAdmin region PskovCoordinates 58°30’N 27°49’EAltitude 30–70 m Area 251,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large lake on the Russian–Estonian border, in a highly developedarea.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%), Grassland (5%), Wetland (80%), Artificiallandscape (5%)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture, Tourism/recreation, Nature conservation/research (25%),Urban/industrial/transport


Two species of global conservation concern breed in importantnumbers. At least 200,000–300,000 individuals of waterfowl stage hereduring spring migration, mainly Anser fabalis, A. albifrons, Anaspenelope, A. platyrhynchos, Aythya fuligula and Bucephala clangula.The lake is also important for moulting waterfowl, notably Anasplatyrhynchos, Aythya ferina, Aythya fuligula and Bucephala clangula.The narrow land-corridor between Chudskoe and Pskovskoe lakesacts as a major bottleneck for migrating birds: as many as 4 million(mainly passerines but also some raptors) have been estimated to passin a single 5-hour period in early September.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International Partial64,900 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Remdovsky, 64,900 ha).93,600 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Pskovsko-ChudskayaLowland, 93,600 ha).


Threats Firewood collection (U), Recreation/tourism (U), Unsustainableexploitation (U)

It has not been decided whether this area should be treated as oneIBA, or whether several IBAs should be identified along the Estonianand Russian shores. More field research is needed and has alreadybeen planned.

Lake Ilmen’ and A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 051adjoining marshy plainAdmin region NovgorodCoordinates 58°15’N 31°45’EAltitude — Area 250,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest lakes in central European Russia, with surroundingfens and meadows.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%), Grassland (22%; humid grassland), Wetland (65%;standing fresh water; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (8%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (13%), Fisheries/aquaculture (59%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (40%),Tourism/recreation (15%)


Bucephala clangula Goldeneye N — — 5,600 — A4i, B1iAquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B — 3 4 — A1Crex crex Corncrake B — 100 — — A1Fulica atra Coot N — — 34,500 — B1i

611



Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1993 2 2 C A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 20 30 C A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 50 150 C A1, A4i, B1i


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1993 1 2 C A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 20 50 A A1

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaAquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1992 2 4 — B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1992 80 100 — A1Grus grus Crane B 1992 100 150 — B1iPluvialis apricaria Golden Plover B 1992 200 250 — B3Numenius phaeopus Whimbrel B 1992 100 150 — B3Numenius arquata Curlew B 1992 1,400 2,500 — A4i, B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 2,000 2,500 C B1iAnser erythropus P 1997 14 — B A1

Lesser White-fronted GooseCrex crex Corncrake B 1997 18 25 C A1

1. Both subspecies present; number of A. f. fabalis probably exceeds threshold.



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Disturbance to birds (B),Drainage (B), Firewood collection (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Plans for the establishment of a nature reserve (Zakaznik) have beenproposed to the regional authority.

Redrovski Nature Reserve A1 054Admin region NovgorodCoordinates 58°32’N 35°00’EAltitude 79–196 m Area 16,850 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThree large lakes of glacial origin.

Habitats Forest and woodland (61%), Wetland (25%; standing fresh water; raised bog;fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (14%)Land-use Agriculture (14%), Fisheries/aquaculture (16%), Forestry (70%), Not utilized(30%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Two globally threatened species breed in significant numbers.Significant proportion (≥1%) of national population breeding at site:Aquila pomarina (1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None16,850 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Redrovsky, 16,850 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Afforestation (B), Intensifiedforest management (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Sources of the River Luga A1, B1i 055Admin region Novgorod, LeningradCoordinates 58°53’N 30°54’EAltitude 53–77 m Area 49,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large wetland complex.

Habitats Forest and woodland (29%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Wetland (69%; standing fresh water; raised bog; water-fringe vegetation;fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Hunting (99%)


Significant numbers of two goose species occur, including the globallythreatened Anser erythropus. Breeding species of global conservation

concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1 pair),Gallinago media (at least 18 pairs).



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (C), Extraction industry (C), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

The area was partly destroyed by the peat-mining industry, whichceased activities in the early 1990s. The water-table at the site is nowrising again, and the mire has started to regenerate naturally.

Polisto-Lovatskaya A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 056mire systemAdmin region Novgorod, PskovCoordinates 57°15’N 30°40’EAltitude 86–190 m Area 110,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest mire systems in Europe, located on the borderbetween the Pskov and Novgorod regions.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%), Wetland (80%; standing fresh water; raised bog;fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%)Land-use Agriculture (6%), Forestry (30%), Hunting (10%), Other (20%)


A variety of typically mire-breeding birds occur in important numbers,including the globally threatened Crex crex.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None36,000 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Polistovskiy, 36,000 ha).36,900 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Rdeiskiy, 36,900 ha). 27,200 haof IBA covered by Zakaznik (Rdeysky gydrologichesky, 27,200 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Drainage (B), Extraction industry (C),Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Sizemski flood-plain A1, B2 057of Sheksna reservoirAdmin region VologdaCoordinates 59°20’N 38°30’EAltitude 110–130 m Area 60,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionReseeded grass meadows on the Sizemski flood-plain which are floodedin spring. The area has a small human population and is relativelyundisturbed.

Habitats Forest and woodland (35%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Wetland (60%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Artificial landscape(5%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (35%), Forestry (35%), Hunting (90%),Nature conservation/research (30%), Tourism/recreation (90%), Water management (35%)

■■■■■ BirdsHaliaeetus albicilla breeds in significant numbers. More than 20,000 geese stage at the site during migration according to local people,although further research will be required in order to confirm this.

612



Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 2 7 B A1Larus canus Common Gull B 1996 300 400 A B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 7,500 7,500 A B1iAnas clypeata Shoveler B 1996 700 700 A B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 22 28 B A1, B2Larus minutus Little Gull B 1996 150 150 B B2Larus canus Common Gull B 1996 1,750 1,750 B B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 150 150 B B2


Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 20 30 B A1

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaAnser erythropus P 1994 20 200 B A1, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseCrex crex Corncrake B 1995 40 70 A A1

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None16,000 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Russkiy Sever, 166,400 ha).


Threats Drainage (C), Firewood collection (C), Selective logging/cutting (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Rybinsk reservoir A1, B1i, B2 058Admin region Vologda, Yaroslavl’Coordinates 58°35’N 38°00’EAltitude 90–160 m Area 455,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest artificial reservoirs in European Russia, situated onthe border between the Yaroslavl’ and Vologda regions. Habitatfeatures include shallows, pools, islands and surrounding forests.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(90%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (3%; highly improved reseeded grassland;arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Hunting (65%), Nature conservation/research (35%),Tourism/recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%), Water management (40%)


Several waterbirds breed in significant numbers, and the forests supporta notably large number of breeding Haliaeetus albicilla. Significantnumbers of geese occur on passage; up to 10,000 (Anser fabalis andA. albifrons) were recorded in the mid-1980s.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None112,673 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Darvinskiy, 112,673 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (B),Extraction industry (B), Firewood collection (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B),Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Uglichskoy reservoir B1i 059Admin region Tver, Yaroslavl’Coordinates 58°30’N 38°00’EAltitude 115–125 m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large reservoir by the River Volga.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water)Land-use Water management

■■■■■ BirdsAn important area for passage and breeding geese and ducks. TheB1i criterion is applied at site-level rather than at species-level, asrecent count data are not available for any bird species. The site mayalso prove to fulfil the A4i criterion once systematic counts havebeen made.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International NoneNo recent information.


Central Forest Biosphere Reserve A1, B1i 060and adjacent areasAdmin region TverCoordinates 56°33’N 32°45’EAltitude 230–270 m Area 63,680 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of marshes, raised bogs and wet forests on the watershed of theRivers Volga and Zapadnaya Dvina, in the southern region of Tver.

Habitats Forest and woodland (82%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland (12%;standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Artificial landscape (5%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (13%), Hunting (61%), Nature conservation/research (100%),Not utilized (33%), Other (7%), Tourism/recreation (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


The globally threatened Anser erythropus and Crex crex occur inimportant numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International Partial21,380 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Tsentral’nolesnoy, 21,380 ha).21,380 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Tsentral’nolesnoy,21,380 ha).


Threats Afforestation (B), Other (C)

‘Other’ threat refers to a large variety of minor problems at the site,with little impact individually, such as firewood collection, drainageand recreation. The remainder of the site, outside the Zapovednik, isa buffer zone (42,300 ha).

Sources of Osuga river A1 061Admin region TverCoordinates 56°05’N 33°45’EAltitude 200–200 m Area 5,100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA mixture of forests and agricultural land situated along the watershedof the Osuga and Ramenka rivers.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; mixed forest), Artificial landscape (50%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (50%), Not utilized (50%)


The globally threatened Crex crex breeds in notable numbers.



Threats Other (C)

Hay-cutting activity can cause problems for Crex crex.

613



Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1990 1,000 1,000 B B1iAquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1990 3 4 A B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1990 1,000 1,000 C B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1990 10 20 A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1990 10 20 A A1


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1990 6,000 8,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1990 1,000 1,000 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1990 50 100 C A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1990 20 50 C A1Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit B 1990 100 100 B B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1990 100 200 C B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1996 150 200 B B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1988 1,000 2,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1988 500 1,000 B B1iChlidonias niger Black Tern B 1988 100 200 B B2

Habitats Grassland (25%), Wetland (50%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland;arable land)Land-use Agriculture (50%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (50%),Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


The site is an important staging area for migrating geese Anser, andholds significant breeding numbers of several wetland birds, includingtwo species of global conservation concern.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None2,280 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero Verestovo, 2,280 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Other (U), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Pollution of land and water is a problem (‘Other’ threat).

Savtsinskoye marsh B1i, B2 065Admin region TverCoordinates 57°30’N 37°10’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 4,569 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn extensive area of fen and mire lying within the Lake Skorbezhdepression, including the sources of the Yakhroma river.

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


Important numbers of breeding Chlidonias niger and staging geese Anseroccur here. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do notmeet IBA criteria: Crex crex (10 pairs), Gallinago media (10 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None4,569 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Boloto Savtsinskoe, 4,569 ha).


Threats Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Orshinski marshes B1i 066Admin region TverCoordinates 57°00’N 36°30’EAltitude 100–100 m Area 43,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large area of raised bog, part of which is still in pristine condition.Peat-mining is a land-use.

Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland (100%;standing fresh water; raised bog)Land-use Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Urban/industrial/transport (20%)

Budnyanski mire B1i, B2 062Admin region TverCoordinates 55°30’N 32°30’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 3,156 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionRaised bog and forest on the watershed between the Shesnitsa andChichatka rivers, two tributaries of the Mezha river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (30%), Wetland (70%; standing fresh water; raised bog;fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (50%)


Breeding Aquila pomarina and staging Anser albifrons occur insignificant numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None1,060 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Boloto ‘Budnyanskiy Mokh’,1,060 ha).


Threats Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Stakhovski marshes A1, B1i 063Admin region TverCoordinates 56°02’N 32°40’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 10,296 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of good quality marsh and bog in the southern part of thetaiga zone, unique in central Russia. Most of the site has remainedintact since the beginning of the 20th century, and is relatively unspoilt.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(80%; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%; highly improved reseededgrassland)Land-use Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (50%)


Two species of global conservation concern breed in the IBA, althoughat low density (as is typical in these habitats). Significant proportion(≥1%) of national population breeding at site: Aquila pomarina(1–2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None10,296 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Boloto ‘Stakhovsky Mokh’,10,296 ha).

Upper Mologa river A1, B1i, B2 064(Verestovo lake)Admin region TverCoordinates 57°50’N 36°30’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 17,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of fens and forested mires surrounding Verestovo lake, whichis fed by the Mologa river.

614



Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1995 1,000 2,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1995 500 1,000 B B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 1,019 — B B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 9,834 — B B1iBucephala clangula Goldeneye P 1997 1,429 — B B1i

1. Likely to exceed threshold for A. f. rossicus.


Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 3 4 — B2Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1997 1 2 — A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 50 60 — A1


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1990 10,000 15,000 B A4i, B1i1 Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 320 380 A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1985 40 50 B A1

2 Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit B 1995 50 120 A B2

1. Large increase.2. Up to 120 pairs in 1985; 50 pairs in 1995.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 15,108 — A A4i, B1i1 Anser erythropus P 1997 43 — — A1

Lesser White-fronted Goose

1. Only one count has been made.


Significant numbers of Anser albifrons and A. anser stage here onpassage. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do notmeet IBA criteria: Gallinago media (10 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None30,000 ha of IBA covered by regionally protected mire (OrshinskyOkhranyaemoe Boloto, 30,000 ha).


Threats Extraction industry (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Part of the area has been destroyed by the peat-mining industry.

Flood-plain of Kotorosl’ A1, A4i, B1i 067and Ust’e riversAdmin region Yaroslavl’Coordinates 57°15’N 39°40’EAltitude 165–174 m Area 4,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of wet forests and grasslands in the valley of the Kotorosl’river, to the south-west of the town of Gavrilov-Yam.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (30%; scrub),Grassland (15%; humid grassland), Wetland (30%; standing fresh water; river/stream),Artificial landscape (5%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%), Tourism/recreation (20%),Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Large and important numbers of geese Anser have been recorded inthe area during migration, including the globally threatened Ansererythropus.



Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Disturbance to birds (B),Drainage (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Only one bird count has been made at the site.

Flood-plain of Kostroma river A4iii, B1i 068Admin region Yaroslavl’, KostromaCoordinates 57°55’N 40°45’EAltitude 128–166 m Area 55,125 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large man-made reservoir on the border between Yaroslavl’ andKostroma regions. Meadows and forest surrounding the reservoir aresubject to spring flooding.

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland(15%; humid grassland), Wetland (25%; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream;raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (12%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Forestry (65%), Hunting (100%),Nature conservation/research (100%), Not utilized (50%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Watermanagement


A minimum total of 24,500 waterbirds of about 35 species pass throughthe area during spring migration, including significant numbers of threewildfowl.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None150 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Sotinskiy, 500 ha). 2,000 ha ofIBA covered by Zakaznik (Yaroslavskiy, 17,000 ha).

Smolenskoye Pohozer’ye A1, B2 069Admin region SmolenskCoordinates 55°30’N 32°00’EAltitude 180–180 m Area 146,161 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of forest, open bogs and lakes in the Smolensk region,surrounded by agricultural land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(6%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Unknown (4%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important site for forest-breeding raptors and Crex crex. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Gallinagomedia (no special counts, but a rather large number breed in the area).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None146,161 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Smolenskoe Pohozerye,146,161 ha).

Faustovo flood-plains A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 070of Moscow riverAdmin region MoscowCoordinates 55°24’N 38°30’EAltitude 104–110 m Area 9,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA encompasses the watershed of the Moskva and Nerskayarivers. There is a network of lakes and channels, and the wet grasslandspartly flood each spring.

Habitats Forest and woodland (1%; mixed forest), Scrub (2%; scrub), Grassland (50%;humid grassland), Wetland (14%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape(33%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (23%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Hunting (100%), Natureconservation/research (24%), Water management (2%)


Three species breed in important numbers in the wet grasslands. Thesite holds 20,000 or more migrating waterbirds on a regular basis,

615



Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 3 B A11 Grus grus Crane P 1996 960 1,200 A B1i

1. Up to 3,400 in 1987; 20 pairs breed.


Grus grus Crane P 1995 1,100 — B B1i


Larus canus Common Gull B 1994 600 650 B B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1988 5,000 10,000 — B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1988 1,000 — — B1iAquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 3 B A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 550 600 A A1, B2Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 20 50 C A1

comprising mainly Anser albifrons with smaller numbers of Anaspenelope, Anas acuta and Anas querquedula.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None2,100 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Moskvoretsky Poimenny,2,100 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Drainage (B), Groundwaterabstraction (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Homeland of the Crane A1, B1i 071(Dubna marshesand adjacent areas)Admin region MoscowCoordinates 56°42’N 38°02’EAltitude 125–167 m Area 38,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site lies north of the Moscow region and comprises the flood-plain of the Dubna river. Habitats include bogs, wet forest, lakes,fens, arable land and reseeded grasslands.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Grassland (12%; mesophile grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (49%; standingfresh water; river/stream; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (38%;highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (48%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (63%), Urban/industrial/transport (2%)


An important area for breeding Aquila clanga. Grus grus occurs inlarge numbers on passage.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None23,000 ha of IBA covered by five nature reserves (NatureMonuments and Zakazniks), with the following names: ZhuravlinayaRodina; Dubnensky Levoberezhny; Zabolotsky; KonstantinivskyChrnoolshannik; Perekhodnoe Boloto V Torgashinskom Lesnichestve.


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B),Firewood collection (B), Groundwater abstraction (A), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainableexploitation (A)

The area has been included on a ‘shadow list’ of potential Ramsar Sites.

Lotoshino crane gathering B1i 072Admin region Moscow, TverCoordinates 56°18’N 35°30’EAltitude 150–182 m Area 28,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA complex of forests, bogs and fens.

Habitats Forest and woodland (42%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Wetland(5%; raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (54%; arable land; otherurban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (52%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (95%), Tourism/recreation (95%)

■■■■■ BirdsImportant numbers of staging Grus grus occur, feeding in surroundingagricultural land. The total numbers are likely to be several times

greater than 1,100 since only part of the site has been surveyed.Gallinago media is said to breed here, and Grus grus certainly does,but no special surveys have been made.



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (B),Extraction industry (B), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Infrastructure (C), Intensifiedforest management (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Danilovskoye marshes B2 073Admin region MoscowCoordinates 55°42’N 38°47’EAltitude 127–127 m Area 400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA mire which has regenerated naturally on peat-mine workingsfollowing their abandonment.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; mixed forest), Wetland (90%; standing fresh water;water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (30%), Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


Significant numbers of Larus canus breed in the area. Larusmelanocephalus is a new breeder for the Moscow region.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None378 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Danilovskoe boloto, 378 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Drainage (B), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

Dedinivo flood-plain A1, A4iii, B1i, B2 074of Oka riverAdmin region MoscowCoordinates 55°10’N 39°18’EAltitude 50–120 m Area 23,120 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn extensive area of forest and wet grassland, located on one of thewidest parts of the Oka river flood-plain.

Habitats Forest and woodland (55%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Grassland (30%; humid grassland), Artificial landscape (15%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (41%), Forestry (55%), Urban/industrial/transport (4%)


The area holds one of the largest populations of breeding Crex crexat any site in Europe, as well as significant breeding numbers of twoother species of global conservation concern. More than 20,000 wildfowl

616



Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1995 500 1,000 B B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle N 1995 20 65 B A1Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1995 4 5 A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 125 130 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 20 30 B A1Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1995 50 200 B B1i, B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1995 600 700 A A4i, B1i, B2


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 4 6 A A1Porzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1995 100 150 — B3Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 100 150 C A1

1 Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 15 20 A A1

1. Large increase.


Ciconia nigra Black Stork B 1995 30 50 B B2Ciconia ciconia White Stork B 1995 38 38 A B2Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 6 14 B A1, B2Tetrao tetrix Black Grouse R 1994 1,000 1,500 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 200 300 C A1Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 100 150 B B2Dendrocopos medius R 1995 300 500 B B3

Middle Spotted WoodpeckerLullula arborea Woodlark B 1995 100 200 B B2Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher B 1996 1,500 3,000 B B3Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1996 2,000 — — B2

regularly occur on passage, the most numerous species being geeseAnser fabalis, A. albifrons and A. anser.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None3,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero Sosnovoe, 3,600 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Disturbance to birds (C),Extraction industry (C), Forest grazing (C), Infrastructure (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Selective logging/cutting (C)

Counts for individual species of wildfowl are incomplete, and furthersurvey work is required.

Zavidovo Nature Reserve, A1, A4i, B1i, B2 075including Lotoshinski,Klinski and Diatlovo fish-pondsAdmin region Moscow, TverCoordinates 56°22’N 36°06’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 133,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large expanse of native forest interspersed with small meadows.There are two large fish-ponds.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(5%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transitionmire/spring), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (25%), Fisheries/aquaculture (15%), Forestry (70%), Hunting (95%),Nature conservation/research (100%), Not utilized (30%), Tourism/recreation (70%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Three species of global conservation concern breed in importantnumbers. The fish-ponds attract raptors during their autumnmigration, notably Haliaeetus albicilla. Significant proportion (≥1%)of national population breeding at site: Aquila pomarina (1–2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None125,442 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Zavidovskiy, 125,442 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Central Meshchera lake-system A1, B3 076Admin region Moscow, Vladimir, Ryazan’Coordinates 55°15’N 40°10’EAltitude 112–121 m Area 92,700 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located in central Russia at the meeting point of threeregions: Moscow, Vladimir and Ryazan’. It comprises a large systemof lakes along the valley of the Pra river, and is surrounded by wetforests and fens.

Habitats Forest and woodland (25%; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (64%; standingfresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Artificial landscape (8%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (11%), Fisheries/aquaculture (40%), Forestry (25%), Hunting (100%),Not utilized (30%), Tourism/recreation (50%)


Three species of global conservation concern breed within theIBA, two of which are globally threatened. Significant proportion(≥1%) of national population breeding at site: Aquila pomarina(1–2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NonePart of IBA covered by two National Parks and one Zapovednik(names and areas not known).

■■■■■ Conservation issuesInformation on the site is incomplete.

Nerussa–Desna woodland A1, B2, B3 077Admin region BryanskCoordinates 52°29’N 34°10’EAltitude 130–210 m Area 220,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis site is situated in an interesting area from the biogeographic pointof view (Bryanskaya), where three very different habitat-typesconverge: deciduous broadleaved forest, southern taiga forest, andwooded steppe.

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Grassland (8%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; raised bog; fen/transitionmire/spring), Artificial landscape (12%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (7%), Forestry (50%), Hunting (83%), Nature conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (68%)


Breeding birds include two globally threatened species, with Aquilaclanga occurring in particularly significant numbers, as well asimportant numbers of a notably wide variety of other species of forestand open country in good numbers. This area is one of only threeplaces in Europe where as many as nine species of woodpecker areknown to breed. Species of global conservation concern that do notmeet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (occurs on migration), Haliaeetusalbicilla (5–10 birds on migration).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None12,168 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Bryanskiy Les, 12,168 ha).24,712 ha of IBA covered by 12 regional protected areas (Zakazniksand Nature Monuments).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Extractionindustry (C), Groundwater abstraction (C), Intensified forest management (B),Recreation/tourism (B)

The creation of a joint Russian–Ukrainian Biosphere Reserve isunderway.

617



Egretta alba Great White Egret N 1995 200 300 — A4i, B1iAnser fabalis Bean Goose P 1993 5,000 — C A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1993 15,000 20,000 C A4i, B1i


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1996 3,000 — C B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 5,000 15,000 C A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 30 50 B A1Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit B 1996 50 100 B B2Tringa totanus Redshank B 1996 50 100 B B2


Ciconia ciconia White Stork B 1996 15 33 B B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 500 15,000 B A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 200 — C A1Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit B 1996 100 150 C B2

Flood-plain of Iput’ river A4i, A4iii, B1i 078in vicinity of KrutoayrAdmin region BryanskCoordinates 53°10’N 32°38’EAltitude 142–162 m Area 4,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA tract of fens, forested mires and wet grasslands on the flood-plainof the Iput’ river, between the villages of Krutoyar and Krasnoye.The area floods in spring.

Habitats Scrub (25%), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (77%; river/stream;fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Nature conservation/research (26%), Not utilized (74%)


Up to 30,000 migrating Anser fabalis and Anser albifrons congregatein the area, and important numbers of non-breeding Egretta alba occur.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None1,050 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kletnyansky, 39,100 ha).


Threats Drainage (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The area has only been surveyed during one field season so far, thusornithological data are incomplete.

Flood-plain of A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 079Iput’ river in vicinityof KholevichamiAdmin region BryanskCoordinates 52°46’N 31°54’EAltitude 131–140 m Area 6,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe flood-plain of the Iput’ river between the villages of Unechiand Kholevichi. The area floods in spring and contains many oxbowlakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (7%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (50%; scrub),Grassland (60%; humid grassland), Wetland (30%; standing fresh water; river/stream;fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (60%), Forestry (7%), Not utilized (30%)


The area holds 20,000 or more migrating waterbirds on a regular basis,in particular up to 17,000 Anser fabalis and A. albifrons congregatehere during migration. Significant numbers of three species breed inthe wet grasslands, including the globally threatened Crex crex, andthe IBA is the main feeding area for 25 pairs of Ciconia ciconia whichbreed in surrounding villages.



Threats Drainage (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The area is situated in the zone affected by radioactive pollutionfrom Chernobyl, and plans have been drawn up to relocate the localpeople.

Kletnyanski forest B2 080Admin region BryanskCoordinates 53°13’N 32°53’EAltitude 142–192 m Area 38,100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large forest with numerous clearings, which are used foragriculture.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; nativeconiferous forest), Grassland (5%; dry siliceous grassland), Artificial landscape(13%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (18%), Forestry (80%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


Significant numbers of Ciconia ciconia breed in the area.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None38,100 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kletnyansky, 39,100 ha).


Threats Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The nature reserve (Zakaznik) is no longer being managed, hence itslegal protection status is not being enforced on the ground. There ispressure on the IBA from illegal hunting.

Desna flood-plain A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 081near TrubchevskAdmin region BryanskCoordinates 52°30’N 33°37’EAltitude 127–134 m Area 17,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of oxbow lakes situated on the wet flood-plain of the Desnariver. The flood-plain is becoming wetter.

Habitats Forest and woodland (6%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (68%;humid grassland), Wetland (25%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transitionmire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (34%), Hunting (96%), Not utilized (17%), Tourism/recreation (20%)


Two species breed in the wet grasslands in significant numbers,including the globally threatened Crex crex. Up to 25,000 Anser fabalisand A. albifrons congregate at the site during migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None650 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Desnyansko-Zherenskiy,2,621 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

It is expected that goose congregations will be monitored over the1997–1999 period.

618



Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1987 5 7 A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1984 100 — — A1


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 12 15,000 B A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 600 800 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 150 200 — A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 — C A1Dendrocopos medius R 1996 100 150 B B3

Middle Spotted WoodpeckerFicedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher B 1996 500 700 B B3


Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 4 4 A B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 360 400 C A1Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1996 150 180 C B3Dendrocopos medius R 1996 15 20 B B3

Middle Spotted WoodpeckerSaxicola rubetra Whinchat B 1996 6,000 8,000 C B3Sylvia borin Garden Warbler B 1996 5,000 5,200 C B3Parus caeruleus Blue Tit B 1996 800 1,000 C B3

Gavan’skiye oak-forest A1, B3 082Admin region BryanskCoordinates 52°54’N 34°03’EAltitude 135–142 m Area 3,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area contains one of the largest expanses of predominantly naturaloak Quercus forest in Bryansk region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (54%; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Forestry (70%), Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (17%), Notutilized (10%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


Significant numbers of three forest species breed, including the globallythreatened Aquila clanga.



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewood collection (C),Selective logging/cutting (B)

This area should be included in the proposed Pridnesnyansky NationalPark.

Kaluzhskiye Zaseki A1, B2, B3 083Nature ReserveAdmin region KalugaCoordinates 53°35’N 35°50’EAltitude 200–275 m Area 44,613 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is located in the highly developed central part of Russia,on the boundary between the forest and forest-steppe habitat-zones.It includes mixed, wet and coniferous forests in the Zhizdra rivervalley, forming one of the largest unbroken tracts of forest incentral Russia.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (15%; scrub), Grassland (15%;humid grassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (4%; river/stream), Artificial landscape(31%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/research (50%)


The IBA holds important breeding numbers of a number of forestand grassland species, including Crex crex and Aquila pomarina.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None

18,533 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kaluzhskie Zaseki,18,533 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (B),Forest grazing (B), Intensified forest management (B)

Oka River Valley A1 084Biosphere ReserveAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°45’N 40°45’EAltitude 88–125 m Area 55,731 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is located in the south-eastern Meshchera lowlands, and iscovered by wet mixed forests and dry pine Pinus forests, as well asbogs and small lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (5%;scrub), Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (10%; river/stream; fen/transitionmire/spring)Land-use Nature conservation/research (95%)


Two globally threatened species breed in important numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High55,731 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Oksky, 55,731 ha). 55,731 haof IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Okski, 55,731 ha).

Valley complex of A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 085Moksha and Oka riversAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°50’N 41°45’EAltitude 80–122 m Area 22,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located between the Oka and Moksha rivers, far from anyhuman settlements. There are many lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; mixed forest), Scrub (15%; scrub),Grassland (80%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standing fresh water;river/stream)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (10%), Tourism/recreation (30%)


The site holds up to 20,000 migrating waterbirds on a regular basis,with Anser albifrons being especially numerous. Crex crex breeds insignificant numbers, but two other breeding species of globalconservation concern do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga, Aquilaheliaca.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International High22,400 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Flood-plains of the Okaand Pra Rivers, 161,542 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

619



Anser albifrons P 1996 15,000 20,000 B A4i, B1iWhite-fronted Goose

Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 1,000 1,500 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 80 120 B A1Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover P 1996 8,000 10,000 B B1i



Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 1,000 1,500 — B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 200 300 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 150 300 B A1, A4i, B1i



Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 500 800 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 40 60 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 60 100 B A1, A4i, B1i


Anser albifrons P 1996 10,000 12,000 B B1iWhite-fronted Goose

Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 500 800 B B1i

Shilovo flood-plain A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 086of Oka riverAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°20’N 40°45’EAltitude 90–115 m Area 22,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large area of wet grassland used for agriculture (mainly for hay),located on one of the widest stretches of the Oka river flood-plain.

Habitats Grassland (54%; humid grassland), Wetland (8%; standing fresh water; river/stream;raised bog), Artificial landscape (25%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-useAgriculture (30%), Hunting (80%)


Breeding species include the globally threatened Crex crex. The areaholds 20,000 or more migrating waterbirds on a regular basis, mainlygeese Anser, and is possibly the most important staging site for Pluvialisapricaria in central European Russia.



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Izhevsk flood-plain A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 087of Oka riverAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°40’N 41°00’EAltitude 85–105 m Area 30,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive wet grasslands on the flood-plain of the Oka river, usedpartly for agriculture.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (70%; humidgrassland), Wetland (13%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring),Artificial landscape (4%; arable land), Unknown (5%)Land-use Agriculture (25%), Nature conservation/research (67%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


Two species of global conservation concern breed in importantnumbers in the wet grasslands. The site holds 20,000 or more migratingwaterbirds on a regular basis, mainly geese Anser.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High20,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ryazansky, 36,500 ha).30,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Flood-plains of the Okaand Pra Rivers, 161,542 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Solotcha flood-plain A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 088of Oka riverAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°50’N 39°45’EAltitude 98–106 m Area 12,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site is located on one of the widest parts of the flood-plain of theOka river, and comprises wet meadowland used for agriculture (mainlyhay and pasture).

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; mixed forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland(60%; humid grassland), Wetland (22%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (35%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (60%), Tourism/recreation (15%)


Two species of global conservation concern breed in importantnumbers in the wet grasslands. The site holds up to 20,000 migratingwaterbirds on a regular basis, mainly geese Anser.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (A),Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Oka valley in vicinity A4iii, B1i 089of MurminoAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°35’N 40°00’EAltitude 89–94 m Area 8,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large area of wet grassland used partly for agriculture, located onone of the widest parts of the flood-plain of the Oka river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (5%; scrub),Grassland (80%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standing fresh water; river/stream)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Tourism/recreation (20%)


The site holds more than 20,000 waterbirds on passage in years whenthe spring water-level is high, mainly comprising Anser fabalis,A. albifrons, A. anser, Anas penelope.



Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (B), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

620



Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 30 50 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 10 20 B A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 — A A1


Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 30 60 C A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 3 B A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 2 C A1, B2Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 3 6 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 50 100 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 10 20 C A1Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1996 100 200 C B2

Watershed of Tsna A1 090and Vysha riversAdmin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°00’N 42°00’EAltitude 90–130 m Area 16,000 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; mixed forest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (5%;humid grassland), Wetland (6%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (19%), Forestry (60%)


Two species of global conservation concern breed in significantnumbers, but another such species does not meet IBA criteria: Aquilaclanga.



Threats Drainage (B), Forest grazing (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

Terekhovski oak-forest A1 091Admin region Ryazan’Coordinates 54°20’N 40°55’EAltitude 89–105 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOak Quercus forest on the banks of the Oka river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humidgrassland), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (15%), Forestry (85%)


The globally threatened Aquila clanga breeds in the area.



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selectivelogging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Kulikovski forest A1 092Admin region LipetskCoordinates 52°17’N 39°30’EAltitude 97–132 m Area 18,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA includes the forested banks of the Voronezh river, which aretraversed by many smaller streams and rivers.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (5%; humid grassland), Wetland (5%;standing fresh water; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (5%; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Forestry (93%), Tourism/recreation (20%)


Crex crex breeds in significant numbers, although some other breedingspecies of global conservation concern do not meet IBA criteria:Haliaeetus albicilla, Aquila clanga, Aquila heliaca. Significantproportion (≥1%) of national population breeding at site: Ficedulaalbicollis (20–50 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None10,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kolodetsky ‘zoological’ reserve,10,000 ha). 8,500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Pervomayskiy‘zoological’ reserve, 8,500 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C)

Upper Voronezh forest A1, B2 093Admin region Lipetsk, TambovCoordinates 53°00’N 40°05’EAltitude 105–163 m Area 92,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest areas of forest in the forest-steppe zone of EuropeanRussia.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest;alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (5%; fen/transitionmire/spring), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (70%), Hunting (80%),Military (5%), Nature conservation/research (15%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


Two globally threatened raptors breed, as do Crex crex and Gallinagomedia. However, one other species of global conservation concerndoes not meet IBA criteria: Glareola nordmanni (1–10 non-breedingbirds).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None12,300 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Dobrovski ‘Landscape’Reserve, 12,300 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (B),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Watershed of Bityug A1, A4i, B1i 094and Tsna riversAdmin region TambovCoordinates 52°10’N 41°15’EAltitude 160–186 m Area 80,000 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; wooded steppe), Grassland (10%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (20%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (60%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)

621



Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 4,000 5,000 B A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 3,000 4,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 1,000 1,500 B B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1997 1 100 B A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 150 200 A A1


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 5,000 7,000 B A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 4,000 5,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 1,500 2,000 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1997 250 300 A A1Grus grus Crane P 1997 500 600 B B1i


Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 1 3,000 C B1iAquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 3 — C A1Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 2 3 C B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 400 500 C A1, B2Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit B 1996 100 150 C B2

A varied landscape of mainly agricultural land, interspersed with rivers,streams, shallow lakes, and a number of small forest plantations.


An important staging area for four species of goose during migration,including the globally threatened Branta ruficollis. Crex crex breedsin significant numbers, although some other breeding species of globalconservation concern do not meet IBA criteria: Circus macrourus(5–7 pairs), Tetrax tetrax (5–7 pairs), Acrocephalus paludicola (3–5 pairs).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewoodcollection (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The creation of a federal nature reserve (Zakaznik) is planned

Zavoronezhski area A1, A4i, B1i 095Admin region TambovCoordinates 52°44’N 40°20’EAltitude 121–162 m Area 48,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large, flat depression surrounded by the Vorona, Palnoi Voronezhand Matyra rivers, with about 20 small fens and mires (totallingc.1,000 ha). The land is farmed non-intensively.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; alluvial/very wet forest; wooded steppe), Grassland(30%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standing freshwater; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (70%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestryplantation; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (90%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


An important staging area for Grus grus and three species of geeseAnser during migration; Crex crex breeds in large numbers. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Circusmacrourus (on passage).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Firewood collection (C), Selectivelogging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Plans have been drawn up for the creation of a Zapovednik.

Voroninski Nature Reserve A1, B1i 096Admin region TambovCoordinates 52°30’N 42°30’EAltitude 108–160 m Area 10,320 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area comprises patches of forest along the banks of the Voronariver.

Habitats Forest and woodland (86%; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (11%;humid grassland), Wetland (14%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Crex crex breeds in significant numbers, although one other breedingspecies of global conservation concern does not meet IBA criteria:Haliaeetus albicilla. The area is also important for staging Anser anserduring migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None10,320 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Voroninskiy, 10,320 ha).

Tsninski forest A1, B1i, B2 097Admin region TambovCoordinates 53°00’N 41°45’EAltitude 105–165 m Area 100,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe largest forest in the centre of the Tambov region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland)Land-use Forestry (100%), Hunting (100%)


The site supports important breeding numbers of several raptors andspecies of wet grasslands, including two globally threatened species. Twoother species of global conservation concern do not meet IBA criteria:Haliaeetus albicilla (6–8 birds in winter), Aquila heliaca (breeding).



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Intensified forestmanagement (C)

Flood-plain of Sura river A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 098Admin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°10’N 46°10’EAltitude 91–219 m Area 40,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne half of the flood-plain of the Sura river is covered in wet forestand fen, and the other half is used for agriculture.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (5%), Grassland (30%; humid grassland), Wetland(15%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape(8%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (34%), Forestry (60%), Hunting (28%), Nature conservation/research (25%), Not utilized (10%)

■■■■■ BirdsA variety of forest and riverine species breed in significant numbers.Thousands of geese Anser stage here on migration, and the site


Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 — 2,000 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 110 150 A A1

622



Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 2,000 3,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 500 1,000 B B1iPorzana porzana Spotted Crake B 1996 150 200 B B3Strix aluco Tawny Owl B 1996 100 150 B B3Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 80 100 B B2Jynx torquilla Wryneck B 1996 400 600 B B2Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1996 200 300 B B2Luscinia luscinia Thrush Nightingale B 1996 1,500 2,000 B B3Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher B 1996 150 200 B B3


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 3 B A1Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 1 3 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 25 52 B A1


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 3,000 5,000 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 200 300 B B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1996 500 1,000 C A1, A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 150 200 B A1Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 120 130 B B2


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 3 B A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 500 1,000 C A1, B2

regularly holds up to 20,000 migrating waterbirds. Breeding speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquilaclanga (at least 1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None1,273 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kochkurovsky Hunting Reserve,1,273 ha). 2,417 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (BolshebereznikovskyHunting Reserve, 2,417 ha). 7,243 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik(Dubensky Hunting Reserve, 7,243 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Deforestation (commercial) (A),Drainage (A), Forest grazing (A), Intensified forest management (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Mordovian P. G. Smidovich A1, B2 099Nature ReserveAdmin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°48’N 43°20’EAltitude 98–191 m Area 32,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionBroadleaved forests dissected by river valleys.

Habitats Forest and woodland (100%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest)Land-use Agriculture (6%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important site for two forest raptors and Crex crex. Two speciesof global conservation concern, Aquila heliaca and Gallinago media,have been recorded, but their status needs to be clarified.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None32,200 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Mordovskiy, 32,200 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Disturbance to birds (U),Drainage (B), Groundwater abstraction (A), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

All bird species are monitored in accordance with the Zapovednik laws.

Moksha valley A1, A4i, B1i, B2 100in vicinity of TemnikovAdmin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°40’N 43°32’EAltitude 105–165 m Area 28,000 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (25%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standingfresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (35%; arableland; other urban/industrial areas)

Land-use Agriculture (73%), Forestry (20%), Hunting (95%)

A flood-plain containing many old meanders and meadows, to theeast of the town of Temnikov.


Thousands of geese stage here on passage, including the globallythreatened Branta ruficollis, and important numbers of Crex crexbreed.



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Drainage (B), Extractionindustry (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Ichalkovski A1, B2 101Admin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°45’N 45°25’EAltitude 88–150 m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive wet grasslands linked by alluvial forests.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Scrub (17%; scrub), Grassland (60%; humid grassland), Artificial landscape(3%; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Nature conservation/research (80%)


Two globally threatened species breed in important numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None800 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Smolniy, 36,482 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainableexploitation (C)

Ornithological data are incomplete for the site as survey work onlybegan in 1996, and further research is required.

Flood-plain of Vad river A1, B2, B3 102Admin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°13’N 42°42’EAltitude 95–161 m Area 65,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe flood-plain of the Vad river is covered by forest in the south andby wet grasslands in the north.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland),Wetland (2%), Artificial landscape (23%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arableland; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (17%), Forestry (70%), Hunting (80%), Nature conservation/research (20%), Not utilized (15%), Urban/industrial/transport (6%)

623



Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 1 3 — B2Coturnix coturnix Quail B 1996 2,000 3,000 B B2Saxicola rubetra Whinchat B 1996 1,000 1,500 B B3Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 400 600 B B2


Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 5,000 15,000 C A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 300 500 B B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1996 500 1,000 B A1, A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1996 100 200 C A1Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 100 150 B B2


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 3 4 A A1, B2Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 5 10 B A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 20 40 B A1Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 150 200 B B2


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 2 B A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 20 40 B A1Columba oenas Stock Dove B 1996 200 250 B B3Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1996 80 100 B B2Picoides tridactylus R 1996 90 110 B B2

Three-toed WoodpeckerTurdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush R 1996 200 300 B B3Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher R 1996 400 500 B B3


Aquila clanga and Gallinago media breed in significant numbers,although another breeding species of global conservation concern doesnot meet IBA criteria: Aquila heliaca. A number of forest species alsobreed in significant numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None8,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Zubovo–Polyansky HuntingReserve, 11,824 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Drainage (B), Firewood collection (B), Selectivelogging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Insaro-Kovylkinski B2, B3 103Admin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 53°50’N 44°02’EAltitude 192–259 m Area 22,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of hilly pasture, partly covered in scrub and small woods.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland (15%;humid grassland; mesophile grassland), Artificial landscape (75%; arable land; otherurban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (95%), Urban/industrial/transport (8%)


Significant numbers of several species breed in the area, notably theglobally threatened Falco naumanni. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Circus macrourus(1–2 pairs).



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/expansion(A), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Firewood collection (B), Selective logging/cutting (B)

Moksha flood-plain in A1, A4i, B1i, B2 104vicinity of KrasnoslobodskAdmin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°23’N 43°50’EAltitude 116–187 m Area 32,400 ha


Habitats Forest and woodland (17%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (20%; scrub), Grassland (25%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland), Wetland (10%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transitionmire/spring), Artificial landscape (40%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arableland; other urban/industrial areas)

Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (60%), Nature conservation/research (80%), Notutilized (20%)

An area of river flood-plain including both forest and agriculturalland meadows, with many oxbow lakes.


Two globally threatened species occur in significant numbers: Crexcrex breeds and Branta ruficollis passes through on migration. Twoother goose species also stage at the site in important numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None6,500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Krasnoslobodsky, 6,500 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Drainage (A), Recreation/tourism (B),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Flood-plain of Alatyr’ river A1, B2 105in vicinity of ArdatovAdmin region Mordovia RepublicCoordinates 54°50’N 46°05’EAltitude 82–186 m Area 38,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn extensive area of the Alatyr’ river flood-plain, with large areas of wetgrassland which flood in spring. Higher, unflooded areas are forested.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (37%; humid grassland), Wetland(10%; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape(30%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (28%), Forestry (25%), Hunting (50%), Nature conservation/research (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Three globally threatened species breed in significant numbers, whiletwo other breeding species of global conservation concern do not meetIBA criteria: Circus macrourus (3–5 pairs), Aquila clanga (at least 1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ardatovsky, 5,016 ha).


Threats Afforestation (A), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Deforestation(commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Surski reservoir A1, B1i 106Admin region PenzaCoordinates 53°02’N 45°17’EAltitude 140–160 m Area 11,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest artificial reservoirs in central European Russia,located in the middle of the Penza region.

624



Anas penelope Wigeon P 1995 5,000 6,000 A B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard P 1995 15,000 25,000 A B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle P 1995 5 14 A A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 2 C A1


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 3 10 C A1, B2


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 — C A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 — B A1Falco cherrug Saker B 1985 1 1 A B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 4 20 C A1Grus grus Crane P 1996 200 600 A B1i

Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (65%), Hunting (30%), Not utilized (40%), Tourism/recreation (100%), Water management


Significant numbers of three waterbirds stage at the site duringmigration, including one species of global conservation concern.



Threats Disturbance to birds (A)

Bekovskoye forest A1 107Admin region PenzaCoordinates 52°25’N 43°45’EAltitude 125–150 m Area 8,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest blocks of forest in the Penza region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (100%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest)Land-use Forestry (100%)


A significant number of the globally threatened Aquila clanga breedsin the area, but another breeding species of global conservation concerndoes not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla. Information from localhunters and relevant literature shows that Aquila clanga has beenpresent in the area for many years.



Threats Intensified forest management (B)

Only a few days of ornithological survey were possible, thus bird dataare incomplete.

Kuznetski forest A1, B2 108Admin region PenzaCoordinates 52°55’N 46°40’EAltitude 250–350 m Area 40,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe largest tract of forest in the south-east of the Penza region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland),Artificial landscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (70%)


Important numbers of the globally threatened Aquila heliaca breed inthe area.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International NoneNot known.


Threats Intensified forest management (C)

Sengileyevskiye mountain A1 109Admin region Ul’yanovskCoordinates 53°57’N 48°37’EAltitude 53–330 m Area 22,400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of forest on the shores of Kuybyshev reservoir.

Habitats Forest and woodland (84%; mixed forest), Grassland (9%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (7%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (14%), Forestry (84%), Hunting (62%), Nature conservation/research (40%), Tourism/recreation (25%)


Significant proportion (≥1%) of national population breeding at site:Aquila chrysaetos (1–2 pairs). Hieraaetus pennatus also breeds.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NoneAbout 9,110 ha of IBA covered by eight regional protected areas(Zakazniks and Nature Monuments).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Selective logging/cutting (A)

There are plans to establish a National Park here.

Watershed of Sura A1, B1i, B2 110and Barysh riversAdmin region Ul’yanovskCoordinates 54°32’N 46°52’EAltitude 86–155 m Area 16,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionWet forest with open areas of mire and several lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (85%), Grassland (7%; humid grassland; mesophilegrassland), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water; river/stream; raised bog), Artificiallandscape (7%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (16%), Forestry (85%), Hunting (40%), Nature conservation/research (57%)


An important area for species of open forest. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila heliaca(1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None6 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Boloto Konskoe, 6 ha).17 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Boloto Mokhovoe,17 ha). 50 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (BolotoMokhovoe Dolgoe, 50 ha). 43 ha of IBA covered by Natural

625



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 3 7 A A1, B2


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1993 100,000 — B A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1993 100,000 — — A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle R 1995 4 14 B A1, B2


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle R 1996 3 5 A A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle W 1994 10 — — A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 30 — B A1


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle P 1997 10 30 B A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 50 100 B A1

Monument (Boloto Mokhovoe-8, 43 ha). 234 ha of IBA covered byNatural Monument (Ozero Picherskoe, 234 ha). 9,200 ha of IBAcovered by Zakaznik (Surskiy, 22,200 ha).


Threats Firewood collection (C), Intensified forest management (A), Selective logging/cutting (A), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Privolzhskaya forest-steppe A1, B2 111Admin region Ul’yanovskCoordinates —Altitude 146–363 m Area 15,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn unbroken stretch of forest surrounded by steppe and pasture.Marmots Marmota and other rodents (the main prey of Aquila heliaca)are diverse and abundant on the steppe and agricultural land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (72%; mixed forest), Grassland (7%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (21%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (27%), Forestry (72%), Nature conservation/research (2%),Tourism/recreation (7%)


The area holds one of the largest local populations of Aquila heliacain Russia. Another globally threatened eagle species also breeds butdoes not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga (at least 1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None334 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Zimina Gora, 334 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Deforestation (commercial) (C),Disturbance to birds (A), Forest grazing (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (B)

Cheremshanski Bay A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 112of Kuybyshev reservoirAdmin region Ul’yanovskCoordinates 54°02’N 49°20’EAltitude 46–140 m Area 63,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA shallow bay on the edge of Kuybyshev reservoir, which is situatedin a highly developed part of the south-east Ul’yanovsk region. Thereare a number of fish-ponds.

Habitats Forest and woodland (9%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest),Wetland (73%; mudflat/sandflat; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape(5%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (5%), Fisheries/aquaculture (68%), Forestry (8%), Hunting (10%),Tourism/recreation (90%), Water management


Important numbers of Haliaeetus albicilla, a raptor of globalconservation concern, breed in the area. Huge numbers of waterbirdsoccur on passage, with Anser fabalis and A. albifrons the mostnumerous, together with thousands of ducks and up to 10,000 waders(Calidris and Tringa). The fish-ponds attract feeding Haliaeetus albicillaand other waterbirds.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None3,150 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Cheremshansky ‘fishery’ reserve,3,150 ha). 19 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ostrov Borok, 19 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (B), Disturbanceto birds (A), Forest grazing (C), Infrastructure (B), Intensified forest management (B),Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

The areas surrounding eagles’ nest-sites are managed.

Khoper Nature Reserve A1 113Admin region VoronezhCoordinates 50°42’N 42°00’EAltitude 104–150 m Area 16,178 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAlluvial forests and meadows situated along the most unspoilt stretchof the Khoper valley, where there is little disturbance from humanactivity.

Habitats Forest and woodland (84%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (4%; humidgrassland), Wetland (10%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (5%;forestry plantation)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Three species of global conservation concern occur in significantnumbers, while another one breeds within the Zapovednik but doesnot meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga (1 pair; about 6 pairs breed aroundthe IBA). In total about 100 species breed in the Zapovednik.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None16,178 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Khoperskiy, 16,178 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

A complex ecological monitoring programme is underway within theZapovednik.

Flood-plain of Khoper river A1 114near Lake Ilmen’Admin region VoronezhCoordinates 51°20’N 42°30’EAltitude 108–161 m Area 4,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small lake surrounded by meadows and wet forest, situated on theflood-plain of the Khoper river in the vicinity of Lake Ilmen’.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/verywet forest), Grassland (39%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; standing fresh water;river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (6%; arable land; forestryplantation; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (15%), Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Forestry (40%), Not utilized (25%),Tourism/recreation (5%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


626



Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 2 4 A A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 2 — C A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 100 200 C A1


Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 30 50 C A1


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 2 A A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 2 A A1, B2Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 3 5 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 100 130 C A1


Anser fabalis Bean Goose P 1997 5,000 6,000 A A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1997 4,000 5,000 A B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 800 1,000 A B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1997 800 1,000 A A1, A4i, B1iCrex crex Corncrake B 1997 150 200 A A1

1 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1997 10 10 A A1

1. Breeding individuals.

Two species of global conservation concern occur in significantnumbers, while three others breed but do not meet IBA criteria:Haliaeetus albicilla (1–3 pairs), Glareola nordmanni (1–2 pairs),Gallinago media (1–2 pairs).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbanceto birds (C), Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Before 1998 there was a temporary nature reserve (Zakaznik) inthe area.

Khrenovskoy forest A1, B2 115Admin region VoronezhCoordinates 51°25’N 40°20’EAltitude 95–140 m Area 35,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large area of forest located in the central Voronezh region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest), Grassland (10%; humid grassland), Wetland (10%)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (80%), Hunting (100%)


Three globally threatened species breed in significant numbers in thearea, while another species of global conservation concern does notmeet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1–5 birds in winter).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International NonePart of IBA covered by more than 20 small Nature Monuments (totalarea not known).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

A proposal has been put forward to establish a nature reserve(Zapovednik) or nature park.

Bereznyakovski forest A1 116Admin region VoronezhCoordinates 49°45’N 41°00’EAltitude 90–110 m Area 13,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA relatively large area of forest on the banks of the River Don, nearto the village of Monastyrschina.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Grassland (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Artificial landscape(10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (80%)


Crex crex breeds in significant numbers, although other breeding speciesof global conservation concern do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetusalbicilla, Tetrax tetrax, Otis tarda (at least 3 displaying males).



Threats Afforestation (B), Firewood collection (B), Selective logging/cutting (B),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Voronezhski Nature Reserve A1, B2 117Admin region Voronezh, LipetskCoordinates 51°55’N 39°30’EAltitude 90–169 m Area 31,053 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLarge tracts of broadleaved and pine Pinus forest, located near toUsman on the border between the Lipetsk and Voronezh regions.

Habitats Forest and woodland (94%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (2%; humid grassland), Wetland (3%; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (2%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important breeding area for three globally threatened species: Crexcrex and two raptors. Species of global conservation concern that donot meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (3–5 birds in winter). In totalabout 125 species breed within the site.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High31,053 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Voronezhskiy, 31,053 ha).31,053 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Voronezhskiy,31,053 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Vorono-Khoperski area A1, A4i, B1i 118Admin region Voronezh, Tambov, SaratovCoordinates 51°40’N 42°35’EAltitude 110–160 m Area 22,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA low-lying area delimited by the Voronezh, Pal’noi Voronezh andMatyra rivers, and situated at the point where three regions of centralEuropean Russia meet. The area is relatively undeveloped, and accessis difficult.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; alluvial/very wet forest; wooded steppe), Grassland(10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (10%; standing freshwater; river/stream), Artificial landscape (70%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (90%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


627



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle R 1997 1 2 B A1, B2


Grus grus Crane P 1997 15,000 20,000 A A4i, B1i1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1996 30 — A A1Charadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover P 1997 300 — B B1i


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1996 1 5 — A1Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1996 5 25 C B2Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 3 10 C A1, B2Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 1 10 — B2


Glareola nordmanni B 1997 5 20 A A1Black-winged Pratincole

Two globally threatened species breed in significant numbers, inparticular up to 32 individuals of Otis tarda were counted over onlyone-sixth of the area in spring 1997, suggesting that a comprehensivesurvey may reveal larger numbers. The area is also an important stagingsite for four species of geese during migration, especially for the globallythreatened Branta ruficollis. Breeding species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga.



Threats Afforestation (U), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Firewood collection (C),Forest grazing (C), Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The creation of a federal nature reserve is planned.

Levo-Dobrinskaya valley A1, B2 119Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 48°45’N 43°00’EAltitude 100–120 m Area 3,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive native grasslands (steppe and meadows) in a predominantlyagricultural landscape to the west of the town of Volgograd.

Habitats Forest and woodland (2%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (50%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland; mesophile grassland), Artificial landscape (45%; arable land; otherurban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (95%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


An important site for breeding Aquila heliaca. Breeding species ofglobal conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetusalbicilla (1 pair), Tetrax tetrax (5–15 pairs).



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (C)

Lake El’ton A1, A4i, B1i 120Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 49°10’N 46°50’EAltitude 0–69 m Area 30,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large salt-lake surrounded by steppe and dry grassland.

Habitats Grassland (steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (99%; mudflat/sandflat;standing brackish and salt water; river/stream)Land-use Unknown (100%)


Grus grus stages in the area in huge numbers during migration, andTetrax tetrax (of global conservation concern) breeds in significantnumbers.


Novokvasnikovski liman A1 121Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 50°32’N 46°30’EAltitude 20–40 m Area 300 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small wetland surrounded by sandy steppes.

Habitats Grassland (60%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (40%; standing fresh water)Land-use Agriculture (50%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (50%)


An important site for breeding Glareola nordmanni, which is thoughtto have undergone a large decrease over the last 10 years, althoughlarge natural fluctuations have not been ruled out. Other species ofglobal conservation concern occur but do not meet IBA criteria:Aythya nyroca (at least 30 on passage), Oxyura leucocephala (1–2 onpassage), Haliaeetus albicilla (at least 1 non-breeding bird).



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Kalachinskaya loop of River Don A1, B2 122Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 49°05’N 43°45’EAltitude 50–250 m Area 60,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionForest and steppic habitats bordering the River Don.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Grassland (70%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (20%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (50%)


Significant numbers of four raptors breed in the area, including twoof global conservation concern.



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B)

A short ornithological survey was carried out in 1996 but data remainincomplete.

Danilovski forest A1, B2 123Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 50°25’N 44°15’EAltitude 25–125 m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionForested river valleys, surrounded by an agricultural landscape.

Habitats Forest and woodland (95%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Wetland (5%; standing fresh water)

628



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 2 B A1, B2


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle N 1996 30 50 B A1Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1996 6 15 B B2Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 3 5 B B2


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle R 1998 24 30 A A1, B2Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1998 16 — A B2

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaCircus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 1 3 A A3Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1996 10 20 B A3, B2Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon B 1996 100 200 B B2Anthropoides virgo Demoiselle Crane B 1996 3 5 B A3

1 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1996 225 — A A1, B2Glareola nordmanni B 1996 30 50 A A1, A3, A4i, B1i

Black-winged Pratincole


Land-use Forestry (100%)


Significant numbers of the globally threatened Aquila heliaca breed inthe area, but two other breeding eagles of global conservation concerndo not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1 pair), Aquila clanga(1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International NoneNot known.


Threats Selective logging/cutting (B)

One short ornithological survey was carried out in 1996, but availableinformation on the site remains incomplete.

Rubezhnoye forest A1, B2 124Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 49°25’N 42°55’EAltitude 50–100 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of forest surrounded by steppe.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Grassland (60%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland)Land-use Agriculture (45%), Forestry (40%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (15%)


At least four raptors breed within the IBA, two of them in significantnumbers. The other two, both species of global conservationconcern, do not meet IBA criteria as breeders: Haliaeetus albicilla(2–4 pairs), Aquila clanga (at least 1 pair). However, importantnumbers of H. albicilla occur as non-breeders.



Threats Selective logging/cutting (C)

A short ornithological survey was carried out in 1996, but informationon the site remains incomplete.

Akhtubinsk wetland A1, A4iii, B2 125Admin region VolgogradCoordinates 48°35’N 45°00’EAltitude (-10)–3 m Area 138,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLocated close to the centre of the Volgograd region, this site includesthe northern part of the Volga–Akhtuba watershed, and extends fromVolgograd to the Volga delta and Caspian Sea in the south. The areais surrounded by steppe and semi-desert.

Habitats Forest and woodland (14%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (30%; humidgrassland), Wetland (40%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (16%)Land-use Agriculture (13%), Fisheries/aquaculture (11%), Forestry (14%), Hunting (100%),Nature conservation/research (8%), Not utilized (40%), Tourism/recreation (30%), Watermanagement (100%)


Many pairs of Haliaeetus albicilla, a raptor of global conservationconcern, breed in the area, as do at least 21,500 pairs of duck and atleast 25,000 pairs of wader (Charadrii) and gull. In total, 82 speciesare known to breed in the area, most of which are included in variousnational or regional Red Data Books. The site is also an importantstaging post for migrating waders, wildfowl and raptors, with twobustards of global conservation concern, Tetrax tetrax and Otis tarda,also passing through. However, further survey work is needed in orderto confirm numbers of migratory birds.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None12,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Lescheevsky Hunting Reserve,12,000 ha).


Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (B), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (A),Extraction industry (U), Forest grazing (B), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (B),Intensified forest management (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

As the Volga region potentially contains large oil reserves, oilexploration poses a very real threat to the area. There is an ongoingproject aimed at establishing a Nature Park. As the area is locatedclose to the large industrial centre of Volgograd, it could easily be usedfor educational purposes, and there are already plans in place for this.

Vicinity of Borisoglebovka A1, A3, A4i, 126(Saratovski [Semenovski] B1i, B2Zakaznik)Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 46°45’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 35,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionFormer arable land that has reverted to steppe over the last 10–12 years,after the abandonment of cultivation. ‘Forestry plantations’ are narrowbelts of trees.

Habitats Wetland, Artificial landscape (91%; arable land; forestry plantation)Land-use Agriculture (86%), Forestry (5%)


A very important site for species restricted (when breeding) to theEurasian steppe biome, including species of global conservationconcern such as Circus macrourus, Otis tarda and Glareola nordmanni.Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBAcriteria: Tetrax tetrax (at least 5 pairs).



Threats Extraction industry (A)

The Saratov region is potentially one of the most important producersof oil in the lower Volga area of Russia, and exploratory drilling in theIBA has commenced. If large reserves are discovered, as seems likely,the IBA will be gravely threatened by the large-scale development ofoil-extraction infrastructure and associated settlements, etc.

629



Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1997 10 12 B A1, B2Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1997 2 3 A A1, B2

1 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1997 50 1,000 B A1, B2



Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 2 2 A B21 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1997 70 90 B A1


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1997 40 60 — A11 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1997 50 70 — A1Glareola nordmanni B 1997 30 40 — A1




Glareola nordmanni B 1997 46 46 A A1, A4i, B1iBlack-winged Pratincole

Valley of Safarovka river A1 127Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 48°45’EAltitude 50–79 m Area 2,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMeadows and steppe-grasslands on the flood-plain of the Safarovkariver, used mainly as pasture land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (2%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (50%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (7%; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (40%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (93%), Not utilized (7%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


Three species of global conservation concern breed in the steppichabitats in important numbers.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Firewoodcollection (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Siniye mountains A1, B2 128Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°05’N 49°29’EAltitude 100–200 m Area 15,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA range of hills covered by primary steppe, some parts of which havebeen turned over to arable farming.

Habitats Scrub (4%; scrub), Grassland (60%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificiallandscape (30%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Unknown (70%)


Three species of global conservation concern breed in importantnumbers.



Threats Firewood collection (A)

Priyeruslanskiye sands A1, B2 129Admin region SaratovCoordinates 50°42’N 46°43’EAltitude 50–70 m Area 20,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionPrimary steppe and agricultural land, adjacent to a forested area.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; mixed forest), Grassland (32%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (48%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; forestry plantation)Land-use Agriculture (48%), Forestry (52%), Nature conservation/research (50%)


Breeding species of global conservation concern include Tetrax tetrax,while two others do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (at least1 pair), Otis tarda (7–12 individuals).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None10,400 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (D’yakovsky, 16,000 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbanceto birds (B), Forest grazing (B), Selective logging/cutting (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Varfolomeyevskiye A1, A4i, B1i 130saltmarshesAdmin region SaratovCoordinates 50°00’N 48°12’EAltitude 20–25 m Area 2,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMeadows, steppes and dry grasslands with a low level of agriculturalactivity (grazing).

Habitats Grassland (80%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland)Land-use Hunting (100%)


Glareola nordmanni breeds here in important numbers. Some otherspecies of global conservation concern pass through during migrationbut do not meet IBA criteria: Anser erythropus (7–10 birds), Aythyanyroca (10–30 birds), Oxyura leucocephala (1–2 birds), Haliaeetusalbicilla (5–7 birds).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (C),Unsustainable exploitation (A)

North part of A1, A4i, B1i, B2 131Volgogradski reservoirAdmin region Saratov regionCoordinates 51°39’N 46°30’EAltitude 30–50 m Area 74,250 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe upper part of Volgogradski reservoir, with adjacent lakes andold river-meanders.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (35%; humidgrassland), Wetland (50%; mudflat/sandflat; standing fresh water; river/stream)Land-use Hunting (100%), Nature conservation/research (5%), Not utilized (75%),Tourism/recreation (20%), Water management

630



Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1997 13 16 A A1, B2Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle P 1997 43 90 A A1Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1997 15 — B B2Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1997 3 5 B B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 250 700 B A1, B2Gallinago media Great Snipe P 1997 500 1,000 B A1, A4i, B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1997 36 36 A A1



Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 3 — A A1


Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 4 — A B2


Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 10 15 B A1, A3, B21 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1996 100 150 B A1Melanocorypha yeltoniensis Black Lark B 1996 100 200 B A3, B2


■■■■■ Conservation issuesBird data are incomplete as only a few days of surveying have beencarried out.

Almazovski area B2 134Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°30’N 42°30’EAltitude 100–200 m Area 4,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is situated in the Khoper river valley, in the forest-steppezone of the Saratov region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%), Grassland (40%; humid grassland), Wetland (2%),Artificial landscape (9%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (45%), Forestry (50%)


One of the few areas in Russia in recent years where Aquila pomarinawas found to breed.


■■■■■ Conservation issuesBird data are incomplete.

Algaiski A1, A3, B2 135Admin region SaratovCoordinates 50°08’N 48°34’EAltitude 19–19 m Area 13,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionFlood-plain and steppe adjacent to a small river (Bol’shoi Uzen’).

Habitats Grassland (54%; humid grassland), Artificial landscape (87%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (85%), Other (15%)


Birds breeding in important numbers include two species of globalconservation concern and two of the nine species in Europe that arerestricted to the Eurasian steppe biome (when breeding).


■■■■■ Conservation issuesData on bird species is incomplete and further survey work is required.

Khvalynski National Park A1, B2 136Admin region SaratovCoordinates 52°25’N 48°00’EAltitude 200–370 m Area 25,514 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large area of forest in the north of the Saratov region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (77%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Artificial landscape (22%; arable land)


An important site for breeding raptors and for species of globalconservation concern.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None3,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Chernye vody, 3,600 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbanceto birds (A), Filling-in of wetlands (B), Firewood collection (B), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Recreation/tourism (A), Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainableexploitation (A)

Vicinity of Voznesenka village A1 132Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°31’N 47°25’EAltitude 50–70 m Area 1,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive arable land.

Habitats Artificial landscape (100%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (100%)


Otis tarda breeds in important numbers.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (A),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Sokino A1 133Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 45°00’EAltitude 100–250 m Area 30,330 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of mixed forest surrounded by agricultural land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (31%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest),Wetland (3%), Artificial landscape (66%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arableland; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (62%), Forestry (31%)


The globally threatened Aquila clanga breeds in importantnumbers.


631


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1996 15 30 A A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 3 — — A1, B2

1. Min. 3 pairs also breed.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1996 25 50 B A11 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1996 10 15 B A1Otis tarda Great Bustard P 1996 80 150 B A1



Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1996 15 30 B B2Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 1 2 B A1, B2


Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 2 3 B A31 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1996 15 30 B A11 Otis tarda Great Bustard B 1996 40 60 B A1Melanocorypha yeltoniensis Black Lark B 1996 20 30 B A3


■■■■■ Conservation issuesBird data are incomplete.

Rzhestyanka A1, A3 139Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 48°00’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 8,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of agricultural land on the flood-plain of the Rzhestyanke river.

Habitats Artificial landscape (98%; highly improved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (99%)


An important area for breeding Tetrax tetrax and Otis tarda, and fortwo of the nine species in Europe that are restricted to the Eurasiansteppe biome (when breeding).


■■■■■ Conservation issuesOnly a short ornithological survey of the area was carried out duringa single field season, and further work is therefore needed.

Veselovskoye reservoir A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 140Admin region RostovCoordinates 47°00’N 41°30’EAltitude 4–10 m Area 230,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionSalt-lakes partly covered by fringing vegetation.

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting (100%), Water management


The wetland supports huge numbers of waterfowl at all times of theyear. Up to 240,000 stage here during spring migration, with up to1,500,000–3,000,000 during autumn migration, and up to 50,000 inwinter. Up to 30,000 pairs of 50 species of waterbird breed in summer,including important numbers of colonial species.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International High

Land-use Agriculture (21%), Forestry (77%)


The area is important for two raptors of global conservation concern.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None25,514 ha of IBA covered by National Park (Khvalynskiy, 25,514 ha).


Threats Unknown

No special ornithological research has been carried out at the site,thus data are incomplete.

Rovno area A1 137Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 47°00’EAltitude 50–100 m Area 8,220 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site includes both grassland and cultivated land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (12%; wooded steppe), Artificial landscape (86%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (84%), Forestry (12%)


An important area for breeding Tetrax tetrax and Otis tarda, the latteralso occurring in good numbers on passage. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Circus macrourus(1–3 pairs).


Stepan Rasin rock A1, B2 138Admin region SaratovCoordinates 51°00’N 45°35’EAltitude 100–250 m Area 35,050 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA covers the high, forested valley-sides of the River Volga.

Habitats Forest and woodland (22%), Artificial landscape (68%)Land-use Agriculture (68%), Forestry (22%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


There is a high diversity of breeding raptors, including two species insignificant numbers. Breeding species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1–2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NonePart of IBA covered by regional Zakaznik (name and area not known).


Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1990 250 300 — B2Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1990 500 600 — A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret B 1990 400 500 — A4i, B1iPlegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1990 300 300 — A4i, B1i, B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1990 200 200 — A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan P 1990 1,500 1,500 — B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1990 2,000 3,000 — A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose B 1995 800 900 — B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose W 1990 — 9,000 — A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1995 1,000 100,000 — A4i, B1i

1 Anser anser Greylag Goose N 1995 7,000 10,000 — A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1990 100 25,000 A A1, A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose W 1990 400 600 — A1Anas platyrhynchos Mallard W 1990 30,000 30,000 — B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1990 30 40 — A1

1. Feeding on rice-fields during May–June.

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Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1997 40 60 B A1Glareola nordmanni P 1997 50 80 B A1

Black-winged PratincoleLarus ichthyaetus P 1997 5,000 7,000 B A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed GullLarus minutus Little Gull P 1997 1,200 1,600 B A4i, B1iLarus ridibundus Black-headed Gull P 1997 40,000 60,000 B A4i, B1iLarus genei Slender-billed Gull P 1997 800 1,200 B A4i, B1iLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull P 1997 20,000 40,000 B A4i, B1iSterna hirundo Common Tern P 1997 15,000 20,000 C A4i, B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern P 1997 600 1,200 C A4i, B1i

230,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Veselovskoye reservoir,309,000 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (U)

Delta of the A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B1iv, B2 141River DonAdmin region RostovCoordinates 47°10’N 39°25’EAltitude 0–6 m Area 53,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe mouth and lower reaches of the River Don and surrounding wetgrasslands, located to the west of the town of Rostov-on-Don and tothe north of the town of Azov.

Habitats Grassland (30%; humid grassland), Wetland (40%; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (9%; open sea),Artificial landscape (24%; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (17%), Fisheries/aquaculture (14%), Hunting (20%), Natureconservation/research (49%), Not utilized (37%), Tourism/recreation (5%)


Breeding species include three species of global conservation concern,including two globally threatened species in significant numbers, aswell as important numbers of three grebes among other waterbirds.Other waterbirds congregate to feed in important numbers in

summer but do not breed. Hundreds of thousands of migratingwaterbirds use the area as a staging post, with ducks, gulls and ternscomprising most of the total. The site is a notable migratory bottleneckfor raptors with more than 3,000 passing regularly in a season,including Buteo buteo (2,000–4,000 per season) and Falco vespertinus(1,000–1,600).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None26,300 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Donskoiy rybniy ‘fisheryreserve’, 68,000 ha). IBA overlaps with Zakaznik (Azovski UchastokOpytnogo Okhotkhozayistva, 6,000 ha). IBA overlaps with Zakaznik(Girlovskyiy, 5,000 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Disturbance to birds (B),Drainage (B), Industrialization/urbanization (B), Infrastructure (B), Recreation/tourism (B),Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Beglitskaya sand-spit A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i 142Admin region RostovCoordinates 47°06’N 38°34’EAltitude 0–5 m Area 1,414 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA narrow sand-spit on the north coast of the Sea of Azov, to the south-west of Taganrog.

Habitats Grassland (14%; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach), Marine areas (71%; open sea; sea inlet/coastal features)Land-use Nature conservation/research (72%), Not utilized (99%)


During migration, two species of global conservation concern passthrough in significant numbers, and more than 80,000 gulls and ternsstage in the area.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None1,014 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Beglitskaya Kosa,1,014 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Extraction industry (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Islands in the western part A1, A4i, A4iii, 143of Lake Manych-Gudilo B1i, B2, B3Admin region RostovCoordinates 46°30’N 42°33’EAltitude 13–49 m Area 19,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA complex of salt-lakes, river meanders and patches of primary steppe.

Habitats Grassland (44%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland(54%; mudflat/sandflat; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and saltwater; water-fringe vegetation)


Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe B 1997 2,000 4,000 B A4i, B1iPodiceps grisegena Red-necked Grebe B 1997 1,000 1,500 B A4i, B1iPodiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe B 1997 500 800 B A4i, B1iPhalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1997 1,000 1,200 A B1iEgretta garzetta Little Egret N 1997 6,000 8,000 B A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret N 1997 500 1,000 B A4i, B1iArdea cinerea Grey Heron P 1997 6,000 8,000 B A4i, B1iCygnus olor Mute Swan N 1997 4,000 6,000 B A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1997 500 1,500 B A4i, B1iAnser erythropus P 1997 30 50 C A1

Lesser White-fronted GooseAnser anser Greylag Goose B 1997 80 100 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 10,000 20,000 B A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1997 — 500 C A1Anas platyrhynchos Mallard P 1997 30,000 40,000 B B1iAnas querquedula Garganey P 1997 20,000 30,000 B A4i, B1iNetta rufina Red-crested Pochard P 1997 6,000 8,000 B A4i, B1iAythya ferina Pochard P 1997 50,000 100,000 B A4i, B1iAythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1997 25 30 C A1, B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1997 100 150 C A1

1 Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle R 1997 10 12 A A1, B2Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1997 150 200 B A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 700 800 B A1, B2Himantopus himantopus B 1997 100 120 B B1i

Black-winged StiltHimantopus himantopus P 1997 1,500 3,000 B A4i, B1i

Black-winged StiltGlareola pratincola Collared Pratincole P 1997 80 100 B B1iGlareola nordmanni P 1997 200 500 B A1, A4i, B1i

Black-winged PratincoleGallinago media Great Snipe P 1997 1,000 2,000 C A1, A4i, B1iLarus ichthyaetus P 1997 5,000 10,000 C A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed GullLarus minutus Little Gull P 1997 1,200 1,600 C A4i, B1iLarus ridibundus Black-headed Gull P 1997 250,000 500,000 C A4i, B1iLarus genei Slender-billed Gull P 1997 3,500 4,000 C A4i, B1iLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull P 1997 150,000 250,000 C A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern N 1997 100 200 C B1iSterna caspia Caspian Tern N 1997 50 100 C B1iSterna hirundo Common Tern P 1997 100,000 250,000 C A4i, B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern P 1997 10,000 20,000 C A4i, B1iChlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1997 100 120 C B2Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern P 1997 80,000 100,000 C A4i, B1iChlidonias niger Black Tern P 1997 60,000 90,000 C A4i, B1iChlidonias leucopterus P 1997 100,000 150,000 C A4i, B1i

White-winged Black Tern

1. Large increase.

633



Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1997 5 10 A B2

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Accipiter brevipes Levant Sparrowhawk B 1996 1 5 C B22 Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 1 — — B2

1. Below threshold but few sites identified nationally.2. Near threshold.


Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 2 3 B B2


Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle B 1996 2 3 A B2


Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 1997 50 60 B B2Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1997 30 50 B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1997 80 90 A B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1997 120 120 A A4i, B1i, B2Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 6,000 10,000 C A4i, B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1997 1,000 4,000 C A1, A4i, B1iHimantopus himantopus B 1997 100 140 B B1i

Black-winged StiltGlareola nordmanni N 1997 50 100 B A1, A4i, B1i

Black-winged PratincoleTringa totanus Redshank B 1997 60 100 B B2Larus melanocephalus B 1997 300 500 B B3

Mediterranean GullLarus genei Slender-billed Gull B 1997 400 500 C A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1997 70 100 C A4i, B1i, B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1997 60 90 C B2

Land-use Agriculture (32%), Hunting (5%), Nature conservation/research (24%), Not utilized (64%)


A wide variety of waterbirds breed in important numbers, most notablyPelecanus crispus. Other species of global conservation concern whichalso occur in very significant numbers are Branta ruficollis, which stagesin the area with other goose species during migration, and Glareolanordmanni, which feeds in the area during the breeding season.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High4,591 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Rostovskiy, 9,465 ha). 19,200 haof IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Lake Manych-Gudilo, 112,600 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Karaichevski forest B2 144Admin region RostovCoordinates 48°42’N 42°15’EAltitude 50–100 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMainly pine Pinus forest, in the north-eastern part of the Rostov region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland),Artificial landscape (18%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (25%), Forestry (70%), Urban/industrial/transport (3%)


Significant numbers of Hieraaetus pennatus breed. Breeding speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Tetraxtetrax (1–10 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None5,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero El’ton, 18,700 ha).


Threats Consequences of animal/plant introductions (B), Selective logging/cutting (B)

Secretevskiye sands (Oblivski forest) B2 145Admin region RostovCoordinates 48°35’N 42°40’EAltitude 50–100 m Area 3,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of steppe interspersed with patches of forest.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (30%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland),Artificial landscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry (60%), Hunting (100%)


The site supports a high density and species-richness of breedingraptors for its rather small area. Breeding species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila heliaca (1 pair).



Threats Disturbance to birds (C)

A short ornithological survey was carried out in 1996 over severaldays.

Kalitvenski forest B2 146Admin region RostovCoordinates 49°05’N 40°40’EAltitude 25–75 m Area 1,200 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionForest surrounded by steppic habitats.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Grassland (15%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland(5%; standing fresh water)Land-use Forestry (100%), Hunting (100%), Tourism/recreation (100%)


An important site for breeding Hieraaetus pennatus. Breeding speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquilaheliaca.



Threats Recreation/tourism (B)

Gorodishchenski forest B2 147Admin region RostovCoordinates 48°50’N 40°50’EAltitude 25–125 m Area 3,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn expanse of forest surrounded by steppe.

Habitats Forest and woodland (75%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareousgrassland)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (80%), Hunting (100%)


634



Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1995 50 74 — A1, A4i, B1i, B2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1995 1,300 1,300 — A4i, B1i, B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 235 235 — A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus cygnus Whooper Swan P 1995 1,000 3,000 — A4i, B1i


Larus ichthyaetus B 1989 8,500 8,500 — A4i, B1iGreat Black-headed Gull


Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1987 24 24 C A1, A4i, B1i, B2Egretta alba Great White Egret B 1987 75 75 C A4i, B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1987 75 75 C A4i, B1i, B2Himantopus himantopus B 1989 430 430 C A4i, B1i

Black-winged StiltRecurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1989 550 550 C A4i, B1i, B3Glareola pratincola B 1989 10 50 C B1i, B2

Collared PratincoleGlareola nordmanni B 1989 10 20 C A1

Black-winged PratincoleCharadrius alexandrinus Kentish Plover B 1994 30 30 C B2Tringa totanus Redshank B 1989 3,000 3,000 C A4i, B1i, B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 200 300 C A4i, B1i, B2

Important for breeding Hieraaetus pennatus. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila heliaca.



Threats Recreation/tourism (C)

A short ornithological survey was carried out during the 1996 fieldseason, although bird data remain incomplete.

Chistaya Banka and A4i, A4iii, B1i 148Ivan-Karaul islandsAdmin region Kalmykiya RepublicCoordinates 45°10’N 48°00’EAltitude — Area —

■■■■■ Site descriptionBare islands, and shallows, in the northern Caspian Sea.

Habitats Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features)


Based on data in the previous European IBA inventory (Grimmett andJones 1989), the site is important for breeding Laridae, and for stagingwaterbirds (up to 750,000) including swans Cygnus (up to 14,000). Thearea is also important for wintering waterbirds, when conditions arefavourable. No updated information.



Uttinskaya area A1, B2 149Admin region Kalmykiya RepublicCoordinates 46°14’N 46°06’EAltitude (-18)–3 m Area 98,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located inland in a semi-desert region of Kalmykiya Republic,and includes a few lakes and seasonally wet depressions.

Habitats Desert (100%; semi-desert)Land-use Agriculture (100%)


The site is important for its high numbers of wintering and breedingraptors, as well as being a key staging area for very large numbers ofTetrax tetrax on both spring and autumn passage. Tetrax tetrax alsobreeds (no data, further research required), as does Anthropoides virgo(255–270 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International Partial11,000 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Chernyje Zemli, 125,000 ha).11,000 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Chernyje Zemli,125,000 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Unsustainableexploitation (C)

Salt-lakes in the A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 150Primorsko-Akhtarsk areaAdmin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 46°00’N 38°10’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 40,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionShallow salt-lakes near the coast of the Sea of Azov, connected by anetwork of channels, with extensive beds of both emergent andsubmerged vegetation.

Habitats Grassland (40%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (50%; coastal lagoon;standing fresh water; standing brackish and salt water), Artificial landscape (10%)Land-use Agriculture (40%), Fisheries/aquaculture (20%), Hunting (20%), Not utilized (10%),Tourism/recreation (5%)


Important numbers of a wide variety of waterbirds breed, includingtwo species of global conservation concern.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

The size of the overlap between the IBA and the Ramsar Site is notknown.

Eastern coast A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 151of the Sea of AzovAdmin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 45°46’N 38°05’EAltitude 0–159 m Area 457,300 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA comprises the lower reaches and delta of the Kuban river, aswell as adjacent coastal shallows of the Sea of Azov, including bothopen and closed bays and lagoons (salt-lakes).

Habitats Wetland (coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; standing brackish and saltwater), Marine areas), Artificial landscape (arable land)Land-use Agriculture, Forestry, Hunting, Tourism/recreation


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1996 9 250 A A1Aegypius monachus Cinereous Vulture U 1996 — 16 — A1

1 Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard B 1996 12 45 B B22 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard P 1992 5,000 12,000 B A1

1. Variation in numbers during 1970–1996.2. Breeding individuals.

635



Oxyura leucocephala B — 1 — — B2White-headed Duck

Himantopus himantopus B 1995 880 880 — A4i, B1iBlack-winged Stilt

Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1995 670 670 — A4i, B1i, B3Larus ichthyaetus B 1995 1,100 1,100 — A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed Gull


Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant R 1994 970 1,200 B B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1992 5,000 5,000 — A4i, B1iHimantopus himantopus B 1993 80 100 B B1i

Black-winged StiltRecurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1993 400 400 A A4i, B1i, B3Larus ichthyaetus B 1994 700 700 — A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed GullLarus melanocephalus B 1994 40 — C B3

Mediterranean GullLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1994 6,000 7,000 B A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1994 50 — A B1i, B2Sterna caspia Caspian Tern B 1989 70 300 A A4i, B1i, B2Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern R 1990 200 1,200 A A4i, B1i, B2Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1994 2,400 2,400 B B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 200 250 A B1i, B2


Neophron percnopterus B 1996 3 — A B2Egyptian Vulture

Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1996 20 40 A B2


Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier R 1996 1 1 — B2Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1996 21 24 A B2Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1996 100 100 A B3Dendrocopos medius R 1996 20 20 B B3

Middle Spotted Woodpecker

A good variety of waterbirds breed in important numbers, mostnotably the globally threatened Pelecanus crispus. Between 300,000and 800,000 waterbirds winter in the area, while the total number ofwaterbirds which stage here during autumn migration is even larger,fluctuating between 2 million and 3 million. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca(no counts have been carried out).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International Partial45,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Priazovskiy, 45,000 ha).30,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Tamano-Zaporozhskiy,30,000 ha). 84,600 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Kuban Delta:Akhtaro-Grivenskaya Group of Limans, 84,600 ha). 88,400 ha of IBAcovered by Ramsar Site (Kuban Delta: Group of Limans between RiversKuban and Protoka, 88,400 ha).


Threats Natural events (U)

More regular monitoring is needed as the site is very important andlies in a highly developed area.

Kiziltash limans A4i, B1i, B2, B3 152Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 45°10’N 37°05’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 28,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA closed bay with shallow water, islands and coastal inlets.

Habitats Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (5%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland(70%; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach; coastal lagoon),Artificial landscape (20%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (100%), Tourism/recreation (10%)


A wide variety of gulls and terns breed in important numbers, as dothree other waterbird species.



Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Filling-in of wetlands (U), Infrastructure (B),Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

There is an ongoing initiative to establish a nature reserve (Zakaznik).

Lower Urushtek river B2, B3 153Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 43°57’N 40°40’EAltitude 800–1,900 m Area 1,764 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis site is located in the mountainous part of the Krasnodarski region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (35%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rockyareas (35%; scree/boulders)Land-use Agriculture (100%), Nature conservation/research (100%)


Two vultures and two forest species breed in significant numbers. Speciesof global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aegypiusmonachus (on passage), Tetrao mlokosiewiczi (up to 10 breeding pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None1,764 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Pseboiskiy, 33,410 ha).

Akhmet–Skala ridge B2 154Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 44°06’N 40°58’EAltitude 500–1,000 m Area 2,300 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA narrow gorge with pastures in the mountainous part of theKrasnodarski region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; wooded steppe),Scrub (8%; scrub), Grassland (30%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Rocky areas (10%;scree/boulders)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Forestry (80%)


The area holds one of the largest breeding colonies of Gyps fulvus inthe Caucasus mountains, as well as significant breeding numbers ofanother vulture, Neophron percnopterus. Species of global conservationconcern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aegypius monachus (1–2 non-breeding birds).



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Kurdzhips river valley B2 155Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 44°10’N 39°59’EAltitude 1,000–2,090 m Area 10,230 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located in the mountains of the Krasnodarski region.

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Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1994 900 — B B1iPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1994 56 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Recurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1994 50 — B B3Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1994 2,500 — C A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1994 20 25 B B2Sterna caspia Caspian Tern B 1994 250 — B A4i, B1i, B2Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 1994 410 — B B2Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1994 2,500 — B B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 84 — C B2


Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1996 300 300 B B2Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1996 100 100 B B1iPlegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1996 500 500 B A4i, B1i, B2


Neophron percnopterus B 1996 1 2 A B2Egyptian Vulture

Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1996 6 14 A B2

Habitats Forest and woodland (83%; mixed forest; wooded steppe), Scrub (10%;scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Rocky areas (5%; scree/boulders)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (70%), Hunting (80%), Nature conservation/research (1%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Significant numbers of two vultures breed in the area. Species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla(wintering), Falco naumanni (passage).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High25 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kamyshovaya Polyana, 25 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Forest grazing (C),Intensified forest management (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Selective logging/cutting (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Lake Khanskoye A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 156Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 46°30’N 38°25’EAltitude 0–50 m Area 8,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large, shallow lake with many islands, near the Black Sea coast andfringed with vegetation.

Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; saltmarsh; shingle/stony beach; standingfresh water; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Forestry (10%), Military (10%), Not utilized (80%)


Large and important numbers of waterbirds breed at the site,mainly gulls and terns, but including the globally threatened Pelecanuscrispus.



Threats Dredging/canalization (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Yeyski salt-lakes A4i, B1i, B2, B3 157Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 46°45’N 38°20’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 24,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of salt-lakes with water-fringe vegetation, open to the Seaof Azov, in the western part of the Krasnodarski region, comprisingone part of a much larger system of fresh- and saltwater bodies in thisregion.

Habitats Wetland (100%; saltmarsh; shingle/stony beach), Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Tourism/recreation (20%), Unknown (75%)


Important numbers of gulls and terns breed. One thousand pairs ofLarus melanocephalus were recorded in 1989, but in 1994 none werefound—although the situation is unclear, it seems likely that this isdue to natural fluctuation rather than to extinction.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Disturbance to birds (U), Filling-in ofwetlands (U), Recreation/tourism (U)

Surroundings of A4i, B1i, B2 158Black ForestAdmin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 45°05’N 38°25’EAltitude 0–50 m Area 20 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA number of lakes to the north-east of the village of Ekaterininski.

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water)Land-use Unknown (100%)


Significant numbers of colonial waterbirds breed in the vicinity of thelakes.



Threats Afforestation (U)

Kalininski Plavny A4i, B1i, B2 159Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 45°25’N 38°30’EAltitude 0–100 m Area 3,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe flood-plain of the Ponura river, partly covered by water-fringevegetation.

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Hunting (90%)

■■■■■ BirdsLarge and important numbers of several colonial waterbirds breed inthe area. Available information suggests that breeding colonies movelocation from year to year.


Larus melanocephalus B 1994 — 1,000 — B3Mediterranean Gull

Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1994 4,500 4,500 B A4i, B1iSterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 1994 500 500 B B1i, B2Sterna hirundo Common Tern B 1994 2,000 2,000 B B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern B 1994 150 150 B B2

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Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1992 2,500 3,000 B A4i, B1i, B2Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1992 2,000 2,000 B A4i, B1iPlegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1992 4,000 4,000 B A4i, B1i, B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1992 250 250 B B2


Crex crex Corncrake P 1995 700 800 — A1Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria

Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1995 30 40 A A1Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier R 1995 8 8 A B2Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1995 55 60 A B2Aegypius monachus Cinereous Vulture R 1995 2 3 A B2Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1995 4 4 A B2

1 Tetrao mlokosiewiczi R 1995 1,500 1,500 A A1, A2, A3, B2Caucasian Black Grouse


Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1996 80 80 C B2Netta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 1996 250 250 C A4i, B1i, B2Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1996 50 50 C B1i, B2Glareola nordmanni B 1996 11 11 C A1

Black-winged PratincoleChlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1996 350 350 C A4i, B1i, B2



Threats Disturbance to birds (U), Unsustainable exploitation (U)

Only part of the IBA was surveyed and additional surveys are needed,as bird data are incomplete.

Mouth of Yeya river A1, A4i, B1i, B2 160Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 46°40’N 38°45’EAltitude 0–50 m Area 9,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe mouth of the Yeya river, including a number of lakes used in partas fish-ponds.

Habitats Wetland (100%; mudflat/sandflat; standing fresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (90%), Hunting (10%)


Glareola nordmanni, of global conservation concern, breeds in the area,as do important numbers of four other waterbirds, notably Netta rufinaand Chlidonias hybridus.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Aquaculture/fisheries (U),Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (U), Disturbance to birds (U)

Imeretinskaya lowland A1 161Admin region Krasnodarski krayCoordinates 43°21’N 40°03’EAltitude — Area 1,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn agricultural landscape surrounded by many towns and villages.

Habitats Scrub (10%; scrub), Wetland (10%), Artificial landscape (80%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (90%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


An important staging area for Crex crex on migration, with up to10,000 Coturnix coturnix as well.



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (A),Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A)

Valley of Urup river B2, B3 162Admin region Krasnodarski kray,

Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya RepublicCoordinates 44°03’N 41°18’EAltitude 500–1,000 m Area 8,132 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA narrow gorge on the border between the Krasnodarski region andthe Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya Republic.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; wooded steppe),Scrub (5%; scrub), Grassland (15%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (5%;river/stream), Rocky areas (15%; scree/boulders), Artificial landscape (10%; highlyimproved reseeded grassland; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (25%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Nature conservation/research (35%),Not utilized (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


Four species of raptor, three of them vultures, breed in significantnumbers. Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Aegypius monachus (up to 3 non-breeding birds).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None3,360 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Belaya Skala ‘Ornithological’Reserve, 3,360 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forestgrazing (C)

It is necessary to increase the extent of Belaya Skala Zakaznik.

Caucasus A1, A2, A3, B1iv, B2 163Biosphere ReserveAdmin region Krasnodarski kray, Stavropolski kray,

Adygeya RepublicCoordinates 43°52’N 40°19’EAltitude 200–3,346 m Area 280,338 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe reserve is located at the western end of the Greater Caucasusmountains.

Habitats Forest and woodland (62%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Grassland (21%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Wetland (1%; river/stream),Rocky areas (16%; scree/boulders)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)



Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier R 1996 1 — A B2Neophron percnopterus Egyptian Vulture B 1996 3 — A B2

1 Gyps fulvus Griffon Vulture R 1996 22 55 A B2Aquila pomarina Lesser Spotted Eagle B 1996 1 5 B B2Turdus merula Blackbird B 1996 200 200 B B3

1. Large decrease.

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Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant N 1996 5,000 — B A4i, B1iPelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican N 1996 10,000 10,000 B A4i, B1iPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1996 10 12 A A1, A4i, B1i, B2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1996 80 90 A B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1996 45 100 A A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan R 1996 50 500 B B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 — 10,000 B B1iAnser erythropus P 1996 10 300 B A1, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1996 500 4,000 B A1, A4i, B1i

1 Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck N 1996 30,000 30,000 — A4i, B1i1,2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck N 1996 70 — — A1

Oxyura leucocephala B 1996 3 5 B A1, B2White-headed Duck

Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 12 20 A A1, B23 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard R 1996 50 — B A13 Otis tarda Great Bustard R 1996 — 200 B A1, B2Himantopus himantopus B 1996 180 200 A B1i

Black-winged StiltGlareola nordmanni B 1996 80 300 B A1, A3, A4i,

Black-winged Pratincole B1i, B2Larus ichthyaetus B 1996 1,000 1,500 A A3, A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed GullLarus melanocephalus B 1996 200 — B B3

Mediterranean GullLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1996 2,000 — B A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1996 50 60 A B1i, B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1996 50 60 B B2

1. Moulting.2. Also breeds but no counts have been made.3. Breeding individuals.

Breeding birds include several species of global conservationconcern, and seven of the 31 species in Europe that are restricted(when breeding) either to the Eurasian high-montane biome or tothe Mediterranean biome, as well as important numbers of severallarge raptors. The site is also a migratory bottleneck site, where(among other raptors) more than 10,000 Buteo buteo regularly pass ina season.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International High263,277 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kavkazskiy, 263,277 ha).263,277 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Kavkazskiy,263,277 ha).


Threats Firewood collection (C), Forest grazing (C), Recreation/tourism (C)

Dadynskiye lake A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 164Admin region Stavropolski krayCoordinates 45°16’N 45°04’EAltitude 9–37 m Area 45,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of salt-lakes and adjoining steppe-grassland in the north ofStavropolski region, on the border with Kalmykiya Republic.

Habitats Grassland (48%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (52%; standingbrackish and salt water; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Agriculture (87%), Fisheries/aquaculture (11%), Other (2%)


A very important site for breeding species of the Eurasian steppe biomeand for wetland birds, and for globally threatened species in particular.Among numerous species that breed in significant numbers are sixspecies of global conservation concern. Three globally threatenedwildfowl species occur in important numbers outside the breedingseason. Significant proportion (≥1%) of national population breedingat site: Recurvirostra avosetta (at least 10 pairs).



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Infrastructure (C), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Research work is planned.

Lake Manych-Gudilo A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 165Admin region Stavropolski kray, Kalmykiya RepublicCoordinates 46°11’N 43°00’EAltitude 12–14 m Area 50,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis large lake is situated in a deep depression on the border betweenthe Stavropolski region and Kalmykiya Republic. There are extensiveshallows and reedbeds (Phragmites).

Habitats Wetland (100%; standing brackish and salt water)Land-use Hunting (40%), Nature conservation/research (60%)


All available data relates to the parts of the IBA falling within theKalmykiya Republic and Stavropolski region. Hundreds of thousandsof waterfowl, consisting mainly of geese and ducks, pass through thearea at night during migration. In particular, most of the worldpopulation of the globally threatened Branta ruficollis migrates throughthe site. The lake also supports large and important numbers of manybreeding or moulting waterbirds, notably the globally threatenedPelecanus crispus.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High30,600 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Chernye Zemli, 125,000 ha).30,600 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Chernye Zemli,125,000 ha). 50,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Lake Manych-Gudilo, 112,600 ha).


Threats Filling-in of wetlands (C)

It is possible that another IBA will be identified in the future, coveringthe western part of the Manych lake system (Rostov region). Certain

Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetraogallus caucasicus R 1995 600 600 A A2, A3

Caucasian SnowcockCrex crex Corncrake B 1995 50 70 A A1

1 Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor B 1995 800 800 A A32 Sitta krueperi Krüper’s Nuthatch R 1995 20,000 20,000 A A31 Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper R 1995 20 30 A A31 Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1995 1,000 1,000 A A31 Carpodacus rubicilla Great Rosefinch R 1995 20 30 A A3

1. Eurasian high-montane biome.2. Mediterranean biome.


Pelecanus onocrotalus White Pelican B 1995 253 — B B2Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1990 38 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 524 649 A A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan N 1995 2,600 — B A4i, B1iAnser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1995 240,000 — A A4i, B1iAnser erythropus P 1995 13,800 — B A1, A4i, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1995 42,000 80,000 A A1, A4i, B1i

1 Tadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck N 1995 30,000 — A A4i, B1i, B22 Tadorna tadorna Shelduck N 1989 22,000 22,000 — A4i, B1iRecurvirostra avosetta Avocet B 1980 43 128 A B3Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole B 1980 4 38 — B1i, B2Larus ichthyaetus B 1990 150 1,460 A A4i, B1i

Great Black-headed Gull3 Larus melanocephalus B 1995 1,500 — A B3

Mediterranean GullLarus genei Slender-billed Gull B 1995 1,000 6,060 A A4i, B1iLarus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1980 1,580 3,272 A A4i, B1iGelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern B 1995 200 1,105 A A4i, B1i, B2Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B 1980 — 425 A A4i, B1i, B2

1. Between 1,300 and 25,000 pairs during 1973–1976.2. Moulting.3. Up to 13,625 pairs during 1970–1980.

639



Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican N 1989 30 — B A1, A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret P 1973 350 400 B A4i, B1iPlegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1995 150 — — A4i, B1i, B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1988 50 — A B1i, B2Anser anser Greylag Goose B 1995 2,500 5,000 — A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose P 1994 5,000 — A A4i, B1iAnas crecca Teal P 1973 45,000 50,000 B A4i, B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard P 1994 10,000 65,000 A B1iAythya ferina Pochard P 1973 10,000 12,000 B B1iFulica atra Coot P 1973 35,000 40,000 B A4i, B1iPhilomachus pugnax Ruff P 1973 50,000 — B A4i, B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetrao mlokosiewiczi R 1989 — — — B2

Caucasian Black Grouse

1. No recent counts.


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle P 1996 40 60 B A1Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1996 5 — A B2Falco peregrinus Peregrine R 1996 5 7 A B2

1 Tetrao mlokosiewiczi R 1996 1,000 1,270 A A1, A2, A3, B2Caucasian Black Grouse

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetrao mlokosiewiczi R 1989 — — — B2

Caucasian Black Grouse

1. No recent counts.

bird species are monitored as part of the work being carried out withinthe Zapovednik.

Burukshunskiye limans A1, A4i, B1i, B2 166Admin region Stavropolski kray, Kalmykiya RepublicCoordinates 45°59’N 42°25’EAltitude 57–61 m Area 6,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA network of saline, brackish and freshwater bodies with fringingreedbeds (Phragmites), situated on the border between the Stavropolskiregion and the Kalmykiya Republic.

Habitats Grassland (50%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (50%; standingfresh water; standing brackish and salt water; river/stream)Land-use Agriculture (50%), Hunting (50%)


Large and important numbers of waterbirds stage at the area duringmigration (mainly waterfowl), and the globally threatened Pelecanuscrispus is present but does not breed.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None3,500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Burukshunsky, 3,500 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (B)

Teberdinski A1, A2, A3, B1iv, B2 167Nature ReserveAdmin region Karachaevo-Cherkesskaya RepublicCoordinates 43°30’N 41°34’EAltitude 1,260–4,077 m Area 84,996 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLarge glaciers, alpine meadows and mountain forests, situated in theupper reaches of the Teberda river, on the northern slopes of theGreater Caucasus mountains.

Habitats Forest and woodland (34%), Grassland (65%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)

■■■■■ BirdsBreeding species include seven of the 31 species in Europe that arerestricted (when breeding) either to the Eurasian high montane biomeor to the Mediterranean biome. The area is a migratory bottleneckfor many raptors, notably the globally threatened Aquila heliaca—certainly more than 3,000 raptors pass in total per season, but nospecial counts have been made.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None84,996 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Teberdinskiy, 84,996 ha).

Kabardino-Balkarski B2 168Nature ReserveAdmin region Kabardino-Balkarskaya RepublicCoordinates 43°39’N 42°30’EAltitude — Area 74,099 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe upper reaches of the Rivers Cherek Balkarski, Cherek Bizengiyski,and Chegem, with forests and meadows (mainly high mountain zones;several 5,000 m peaks in the Bokovoy range) in a rugged landscapewith deep ravines.

Habitats Forest and woodland, Grassland (alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rockyareas (scree/boulders; inland cliff)


Based on data in the previous European IBA inventory (Grimmettand Jones 1989), the site is important for Tetrao mlokosiewiczi. Otherbreeding species include snowcock Tetraogallus and Alectoris chukar.No updated information.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None74,099 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kabardino-Balkarsky,74,099 ha).


Severo-Osetinski (North Osetin) B2 169Nature ReserveAdmin region Severnaya Osetiya RepublicCoordinates 42°49’N 44°00’EAltitude — Area 28,999 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA mountainous area including forest, subalpine and alpine zones,glaciers, snow-fields, crags and screes on the northern slopes of themain ridge of the Caucasus range in the Ardon/Fiagdon basin(tributaries of the River Terek).

Habitats Forest and woodland, Grassland (alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland), Rockyareas (scree/boulders; inland cliff)


Species ... continued Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Tetraogallus caucasicus R 1996 900 1,200 A A2, A3

Caucasian Snowcock1 Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor B 1996 500 1,000 A A32 Sitta krueperi Krüper’s Nuthatch B 1996 2,500 4,000 B A31 Tichodroma muraria Wallcreeper B 1996 40 60 C A31 Carpodacus rubicilla Great Rosefinch B 1996 50 100 C A32 Emberiza melanocephala U 1996 — — — A3

Black-headed Bunting

1. Eurasian high-montane biome.2. Mediterranean biome.

640


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant P 1996 1,000 — — B1i1 Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1996 10 — B A1, B2

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1996 119 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1988 20 65 — B2

1. Data incomplete; census planned in 1997.


Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant P 1996 1,700 — — B1i1 Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1996 195 — — A1

Pygmy Cormorant1 Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican P 1996 45 — — A1, A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret P 1996 280 — — A4i, B1iAnas strepera Gadwall P 1996 1,105 — — B1iNetta rufina Red-crested Pochard P 1996 300 500 B B1i

1. Data incomplete; census planned in 1997.

Based on data in the previous European IBA inventory (Grimmettand Jones 1989), the site is important for Tetrao mlokosiewiczi. A totalof 157 species have been recorded, including Gypaetus barbatus,snowcock Tetraogallus and Alectoris chukar. No updated information.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None28,999 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Severo-Osetinsky,28,999 ha).


Budary lakes B1i 170Admin region Chechenskaya RepublicCoordinates 43°30’N 46°04’EAltitude — Area 1,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionSteppe lakes with Phragmites and Typha beds.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water; water-fringe vegetation)

■■■■■ BirdsA site for breeding grebes and ducks, and staging and wintering grebes,herons, swans and ducks. The B1i criterion is applied at site-level ratherthan at species-level, as recent count data are not available for anybird species. The site may also prove to fulfil the A4i criterion oncesystematic counts have been made.



Agrakhanski Bay A1, A4i, B1i, B2 171Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 43°30’N 47°50’EAltitude (-27)–(-27) m Area 39,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA includes Agrakhanski Bay, as well as coastal lakes on thewestern shore of the Caspian Sea, north of Makhachkala. A longpeninsula, jutting into the Caspian Sea, borders the Bay. A channelwas excavated in 1972, which resulted in the flooding and destructionof a main dyke, and a consequent drop in the water-level ofAgrakhanski Bay (in previous years the bay was above sea-level).Today all that remains is a small expanse of open water in the southernpart of the bay. Sand beaches and meadows provide good feedinghabitat for migrating waders.

Habitats Scrub (20%; scrub; sclerophyllous scrub/garrigue/maquis), Wetland (80%;mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water; standing brackish andsalt water; river/stream)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (50%), Hunting (50%), Tourism/recreation (10%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Breeding species include two species of global conservation concern.About 300,000 duck winter in the IBA and many other migratingwaterbird species stage here. It is a particularly important site forwaders, with tens of thousands stopping to feed on passage, especially

Calidris alpina, C. alba and Tringa totanus, but no detailed countshave been made.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NonePart of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Agrakhansky, 39,000 ha).


Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (C), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Rising water-levels in the Caspian Sea may improve the site furtherfor waders.

Kizlyar Bay A1, A4i, B1i 172Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 44°30’N 46°45’EAltitude (-27)–(-23) m Area 19,061 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionExtensive reedbeds (Phragmites) cover large expanses of shallowcoastal waters of the Caspian Sea, at the border between the Dagestanand Kalmykiya Republics.

Habitats Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Desert(10%; semi-desert), Wetland (30%; mudflat/sandflat; shingle/stony beach; standing freshwater; standing brackish and salt water; water-fringe vegetation), Marine areas (50%;open sea)Land-use Agriculture, Fisheries/aquaculture, Hunting


Important numbers of several waterbirds stage in the area duringmigration (notably the globally threatened Pelecanus crispus).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None19,061 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Dagestansky, 19,061 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (C),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

The main threat is from the rising level of the Caspian Sea.

Mouth of Samur river A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 173Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 41°52’N 48°30’EAltitude (-27)–60 m Area 7,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe mouth of the Samur river, in the south of the Dagestan Republicnear to the border with Azerbaijan. The site contains the largestexpanse of dry subtropical forest remaining along the Caspian Seacoast. Reedbeds (Phragmites) are present in the river mouth andassociated channels.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Wetland (5%;mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificiallandscape (5%; arable land; forestry plantation; urban parks/gardens; ruderal land)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (2%), Forestry (95%), Nature conservation/research(100%)

641


Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaPhalacrocorax pygmeus P 1997 17 40 A A1

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican P 1996 100 150 A A1, A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret P 1997 86 1,000 B A4i, B1iPlatalea leucorodia Spoonbill P 1996 12 300 B A4i, B1i

1 Anser erythropus P 1996 30 40 B A1Lesser White-fronted Goose

Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck P 1989 10 100 B A1Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier P 1989 1 50 C A1Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle P 1997 7 14 A A1

2 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard P 1985 1,500 2,000 A A1Larus minutus Little Gull P 1989 10 1,000 C A4i, B1i, B2Gelochelidon nilotica Gull-billed Tern P 1989 10 300 C A4i, B1iChlidonias leucopterus P 1989 100 3,000 C A4i, B1i

White-winged Black TernDendrocopos medius R 1989 70 300 B B3

Middle Spotted WoodpeckerParus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1989 400 1,000 B B3

1. Most pass through without stopping.2. Breeding individuals; do not occur every year.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1997 20 25 B A1, B2

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1997 30 — B A1, A4i, B1i, B2

1. Up to 500 pairs in 1972.


Seven species of global conservation concern pass through the areaon migration, including four globally threatened species, most notablyPelecanus crispus. Several other waterbirds also occur in importantnumbers on passage. Species of global conservation concern that donot meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (2–3 pairs are resident).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None7,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Samursky, 11,200 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (A),Groundwater abstraction (C), Industrialization/urbanization (C), Infrastructure (C),Intensified forest management (B), Natural events (B), Recreation/tourism (B), Selectivelogging/cutting (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

The site is threatened by the sea-level rise that is occurring naturallyin the Caspian Sea.

Lake Adzhi A1, A4i, B1i, B2 174Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 42°19’N 48°05’EAltitude (-27)–(-8) m Area 2,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large salt-lake to the north-west of Derbent, not far from the coastof the Caspian Sea.

Habitats Desert (20%; semi-desert), Wetland (80%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standingbrackish and salt water)Land-use Agriculture (20%), Hunting (100%)


Four species of global conservation occur in significant numbers,including two globally threatened species. Large numbers of Fulicaatra stage in the area during migration.



Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Extraction industry (C), Natural events (A), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Water-loss in summer due to evaporation poses a threat to nestingbirds. A large conservation project was carried out in 1998, involvingbird monitoring and educational activities for school children, with agrant from BP Amoco.

Sources of Mazachai A1, A3, B2 175and Mullarchai riversAdmin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 41°15’N 47°42’EAltitude 1,000–3,500 m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA forested area in the Caucasus mountains, near to the border withAzerbaijan, along the middle reaches of the Samur river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland, Rocky areasLand-use Agriculture (70%), Not utilized (30%)


Breeding birds that occur in significant numbers include two speciesof global conservation concern, as well as four of the 10 species inEurope that are restricted (when breeding) to the Eurasian highmontane biome.



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Firewood collection (A), Forest grazing (A),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Karakol’skiye lakes A1, A4i, B1i, B2 176Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 44°15’N 46°50’EAltitude (-27)–(-23) m Area 10,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of several freshwater lakes located near to the Caspian Seacoast, to the south of Kizlyarski Bay.



Breeding species include two species of global conservation concern.A wide variety of other waterbirds breed, including Platalea leucorodia,Plegadis falcinellus, seven species of heron, Anthropoides virgo,and Himantopus himantopus, but their numbers have not yet beencounted.



Phalacrocorax pygmeus P 1997 150 200 A A1, A4i, B1iPygmy Cormorant

Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican P 1997 24 40 A A1, A4i, B1iAythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1997 17 25 A A1Fulica atra Coot P 1997 40,000 50,000 A A4i, B1i

1 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard P 1996 — 5,000 A A1Glareola pratincola Collared Pratincole R 1997 10 15 A B2



Gypaetus barbatus Lammergeier R 1996 2 3 A B21 Aegypius monachus Cinereous Vulture N 1997 — 20 — A1Tetrao mlokosiewiczi R 1997 15 20 A A1

Caucasian Black GrouseTetraogallus caucasicus R 1997 40 50 A A3

Caucasian Snowcock2 Prunella collaris Alpine Accentor R 1996 8 10 B A32 Pyrrhocorax graculus Alpine Chough R 1996 40 50 B A32 Montifringilla nivalis Snowfinch R 1996 5 10 B A3

1. Breeding occurs but number of pairs unknown.2. Number of pairs may be higher.

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Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc Criteria1 Cygnus olor Mute Swan P 1975 3,000 4,000 B A4i, B1iAnas acuta Pintail W 1975 32,600 — B A4i, B1i

1. Birds also overwinter.


Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Achikol’skiye lakes A1, A4i, B1i, B2 177Admin region Dagestan RepublicCoordinates 43°47’N 47°10’EAltitude (-20)–(-17) m Area 20,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of freshwater lakes to the west and inland of AgrakhanskiBay of the Caspian Sea.



A variety of waterbirds breed in important numbers, including threespecies of global conservation concern, notably Pelecanus crispus andAythya nyroca.



Threats Aquaculture/fisheries (C), Disturbance to birds (B), Natural events (A),Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Overgrowth of the lakes by reed Phragmites is reducing the area ofopen water (‘Natural events’, above).

Morskoy Biryuchek island A4i, B1i 178Admin region Dagestan Republic, Kalmykiya RepublicCoordinates 44°44’N 47°03’EAltitude (-26)–(-25) m Area 30,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMorskoy Biryuchek island lies close to the western shoreline of theCaspian Sea. It has recently been submerged by the continuing rise insea-level, and now forms an area of shallower water in the open sea.

Habitats Marine areas (100%; open sea)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (69%), Nature conservation/research (31%)


Large numbers of waterfowl occur in winter and on migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International NonePart (not more than 5%) of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Dagestanski,18,900 ha). 30,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ostrov MorskoyBiryuchek, 50,000 ha).


Threats Filling-in of wetlands (C)

Occasional research work is carried out within DagestanskiZapovednik.

Volga delta A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2, B3 179Admin region AstrakhanCoordinates 46°00’N 48°30’EAltitude (-28)–(-25) m Area 1,150,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe largest delta in Europe, on the north coast of the Caspian Sea, inthe south of the Astrakhan region, comprising freshwater channelsand lakes, extensive coastal shallows, alluvial islands and spits, withmuch water-fringe vegetation.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (20%; humidgrassland), Wetland (75%; tidal river/enclosed tidal water; mudflat/sandflat; sand-dunes/sand beach; coastal lagoon; standing fresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation),Marine areas (sea inlet/coastal features), Artificial landscape (arable land)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Fisheries/aquaculture (75%), Forestry (10%), Hunting (95%),Nature conservation/research (5%), Tourism/recreation (20%)


Immense numbers of waterbirds breed in the delta, including56,800 pairs of herons, cormorants Phalacrocorax, Plegadis falcinellusand Platalea leucorodia alone, although this total has decreasedin recent years. During migration, a total of 7 million waterbirdspass through the area in spring, and 5–10 million in the autumn. Thenumber of waterfowl overwintering in the delta depends on theseverity of the weather, but can include important numbers of Cygnuscygnus.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International Partial66,816 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Astrakhanskiy, 66,816 ha).66,816 ha of IBA covered by Biosphere Reserve (Astrakhanskiy,66,816 ha). 800,000 ha of IBA covered by Ramsar Site (Volga delta,800,000 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (U), Natural events (U), Unsustainableexploitation (U)

The rising level of the Caspian Sea poses a threat to some habitats andbird species. There are many ongoing scientific monitoring projects.


Phalacrocorax pygmeus B 1988 — 20 C A1, B2Pygmy Cormorant

Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican R 1997 30 40 B A1, A4i, B1i, B2Egretta alba Great White Egret R 1970 50 — A A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose R 1982 70 90 A B1iNetta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 1982 1,200 1,300 A A4i, B1i, B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1982 250 300 A A1, B2Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1997 10 15 A A1Fulica atra Coot R 1982 9,000 10,000 A B1i


Phalacrocorax carbo Cormorant B 1996 60,000 60,000 B A4i, B1iPhalacrocorax pygmeus B 1995 300 — A A1, A4i, B1i, B2

Pygmy CormorantPelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1995 50 240 A A1, A4i, B1i, B2Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 2,360 4,230 A A4i, B1i, B2

1 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron B 1995 1,315 4,050 A A4i, B1i, B2Egretta garzetta Little Egret B 1995 2,600 3,630 A A4i, B1iEgretta alba Great White Egret B 1995 4,640 5,250 A A4i, B1iArdea cinerea Grey Heron B 1995 3,140 3,850 A A4i, B1iArdea purpurea Purple Heron B 1988 2,060 2,450 A B2Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis B 1995 3,685 4,530 A A4i, B1i, B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 250 350 A A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 1995 5,000 6,000 A A4i, B1iCygnus cygnus Whooper Swan W 1995 30,000 30,000 B A4i, B1i, B3

1 Anser anser Greylag Goose B 1995 5,000 13,000 A A4i, B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1995 7,000 12,000 A B1iNetta rufina Red-crested Pochard B 1995 2,000 4,000 A A4i, B1i, B2Aythya nyroca Ferruginous Duck B 1996 — 1,000 — A1, A4i, B1i, B2Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1995 150 160 A A1, B2Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 3 10 — A1, B2Pandion haliaetus Osprey B 1995 20 25 A B2Fulica atra Coot B 1995 130,000 170,000 A A4i, B1iSterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 1995 40 40 B B2

2 Chlidonias hybridus Whiskered Tern B — 100 — B B2Chlidonias niger Black Tern B 1995 200 — B B2Alcedo atthis Kingfisher B 1995 100 — B B2Parus caeruleus Blue Tit R 1995 1,000 — B B3Lanius minor Lesser Grey Shrike B 1995 100 — B B2

1. Large decrease.2. Numerous.

643



Nycticorax nycticorax Night Heron B 1995 100 100 A B2Egretta alba Great White Egret B 1995 1,260 1,260 A A4i, B1iArdea purpurea Purple Heron B 1995 1,500 1,500 A B2Platalea leucorodia Spoonbill B 1995 70 70 A A4i, B1i, B2Cygnus olor Mute Swan B 1995 1,000 1,500 A A4i, B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose B 1995 1,000 1,000 A B1i

1 Anser anser Greylag Goose N 1995 9,000 9,000 B A4i, B1iTadorna ferruginea Ruddy Shelduck B 1995 1,500 1,500 C A4i, B1i, B2Tadorna tadorna Shelduck B 1995 1,500 2,000 A A4i, B1i

1 Anas crecca Teal N 1995 40,000 40,000 A A4i, B1iFulica atra Coot B 1995 25,000 25,000 A A4i, B1i

1. Moulting.

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaPhalacrocorax carbo Cormorant N 1996 6,000 10,000 B A4i, B1i

1 Larus ichthyaetus B 1995 4,000 42,000 A A4i, B1iGreat Black-headed Gull

1 Larus cachinnans Yellow-legged Gull B 1995 1,000 1,500 A A4i, B1i1 Sterna caspia Caspian Tern B 1995 1,000 2,500 A A4i, B1i, B21 Sterna sandvicensis Sandwich Tern B 1995 600 600 A B1i, B2

1. Large decrease.

Western Ilmen area A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 180Admin region AstrakhanCoordinates 46°00’N 47°30’EAltitude (-24)–0 m Area 590,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA wetland on the border between Astrakhan region and KalmykiyaRepublic, in the south-eastern part of the east European plain. Thesite extends west of the River Volga and stretches south to the coastof the Caspian Sea, following the natural boundary between the lakesystem and semi-desert areas.

Habitats Desert (57%; semi-desert), Wetland (13%; standing fresh water; standingbrackish and salt water), Artificial landscape (30%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (85%), Fisheries/aquaculture (18%), Hunting (90%), Tourism/recreation (3%)


Breeding species include a wide variety of colonial waterbirds andwildfowl in important numbers. The area supports a total of 1,000,000–1,500,000 waterbirds during migration, among which the mostnumerous species are wildfowl such as Cygnus olor, C. columbianus,C. cygnus, Anser anser, Tadorna tadorna, Anas strepera, A. crecca, A.platyrhynchos, A. acuta, A. querquedula, Netta rufina and Aythya ferina.Tens of thousands of wildfowl congregate to moult, notably Anseranser and Anas crecca. Breeding species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria (no counts): Tetrax tetrax, Otis tarda.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None6,700 ha of IBA is covered by Zakaznik (Ilmeno-Bugrobiy, 6,700 ha).


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (B), Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (C), Natural events (B), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The area has been included on a ‘shadow list’ of potential Ramsar Sites.

Maly Zhemchuzhny island A4i, B1i, B2 181Admin region AstrakhanCoordinates 45°00’N 48°18’EAltitude (-27)–(-25) m Area 35 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small island in the Caspian Sea, to the south of the Volga delta.

Habitats Wetland (100%; sand-dunes/sand beach; shingle/stony beach)Land-use Nature conservation/research (30%), Unknown (70%)


The island holds large and important breeding colonies ofPhalacrocorax carbo and of four species of gull and tern; the latterhave all undergone a large decrease during 1985–1995.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None35 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Maliy ZhemchuzhnyIsland, 35 ha).


Threats Natural events (A)

Sea-level rise is causing flooding. Ornithologists from AstrakhanZapovednik/Biosphere Reserve monitor the breeding colonies.

Bogdinsko-Baskunchakski A1, A3, B2 182Admin region AstrakhanCoordinates 48°10’N 47°00’EAltitude 10–10 m Area 70,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area is located in the north-western part of the Astrakhan region,near the boundary with Kazakhstan.

Habitats Grassland (99%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Wetland (1%)Land-use Agriculture (99%)


An important breeding area for the globally threatened Aquila heliaca,and for two other raptors which breed in significant numbers, as wellas Anthropoides virgo (restricted to the Eurasian steppe biome whenbreeding). Species of global conservation concern that do not meetIBA criteria: Circus macrourus (on passage), Otis tarda (on passage),Tetrax tetrax (breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None53,700 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Bogdinsko-Baskunchaksky,53,700 ha).


Threats Extraction industry (C), Recreation/tourism (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Flood-plain of River Vetluga B1i 183Admin region KostromaCoordinates 57°30’N 45°10’EAltitude — Area —

■■■■■ Site descriptionFlood-plain of the River Vetluga from Sharya to Krasnyye Baki.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream)

■■■■■ BirdsA breeding and passage site for geese and ducks. The B1i criterion isapplied at site-level rather than at species-level, as recent count dataare not available for any bird species. The site may also prove to fulfilthe A4i criterion once systematic counts have been made.




Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle R 1994 5 10 B A1, B2Buteo rufinus Long-legged Buzzard R 1994 5 20 C B2Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1994 5 30 C A1, A3, B2Anthropoides virgo Demoiselle Crane B 1994 — 300 C A3

644



Grus grus Crane B 1990 140 140 A B1i


Larus ridibundus Black-headed Gull R 1990 20,700 — A A4i, B1iLarus canus Common Gull R 1990 7,200 — A A4i, B1i, B2


Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1995 120 400 B B1iAnas penelope Wigeon P 1995 1,000 13,000 B B1iAythya fuligula Tufted Duck P 1995 1,000 11,000 B B1iCrex crex Corncrake R 1996 40 — A A1

Kamsko-Bakaldinskiye B1i 184marshesAdmin region Nizhni NovgorodCoordinates 56°15’N 45°05’EAltitude 72–118 m Area 120,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest peatlands in European Russia, consisting of wetforest and open fen and mire.

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Grassland (15%; humid grassland), Wetland (85%; standing fresh water; river/stream;raised bog; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (5%)Land-use Forestry (70%), Nature conservation/research (25%), Other


Even though available bird data are rather old and very incomplete,the area is one of the most important for birds in European Russiaand still in a natural condition. Breeding species of globalconservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aquila clanga(1 pair), Gallinago media (at least 10 pairs). Significant proportion(≥1%) of national population breeding at site: Aquila chrysaetos(2 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International High46,940 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Kerzhenskiy, 46,940 ha).There are also about 10 Nature Monuments which, together with theZapovednik, cover 25% of the IBA. 120,000 ha of IBA covered byRamsar Site (Kama-Bakaldino mires, 226,500 ha).


Threats Deforestation (commercial) (A), Drainage (A), Extraction industry (B)

Sitnikovski Nature Reserve A4i, B1i, B2 185Admin region Nizhni NovgorodCoordinates 57°50’N 44°10’EAltitude 146–163 m Area 2,117 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of peat-bogs and disused, flooded peat-mine workings whichare reverting naturally to bogs.

Habitats Wetland (85%; standing fresh water; raised bog; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Other, Tourism/recreation (5%)


The largest inland breeding colony of gulls and terns in Europe,totalling a minimum of c.28,000 pairs.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None2,117 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Sitnikovsky, 2,117 ha).

Gorki reservoir B1i 186and the lower Unzha riverAdmin region Ivanovo, Nizhni Novgorod, KostromaCoordinates 57°19’N 43°04’EAltitude — Area 72,100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large reservoir.

Habitats Wetland (standing fresh water; river/stream)Land-use Water management

■■■■■ BirdsAn important area for staging and breeding ducks. The B1i criterionis applied at site-level rather than at species-level, as recent count dataare not available for any bird species. The site may also prove to fulfilthe A4i criterion once systematic counts have been made.



Flood-plain of Algashka river A1, A4iii, B1i 187Admin region Chuvashskaya RepublicCoordinates 55°30’N 46°30’EAltitude 78–79 m Area 400 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe flood-plain of the Algashka river lies in the south of the ChuvashRepublic. There are extensive wet grasslands.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub (5%; scrub),Grassland (80%; humid grassland), Wetland (5%; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificiallandscape (10%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (90%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (100%), Not utilized (5%)


Despite its rather small extent, the site is important for breedingCrex crex and as a staging area for migrating waterfowl, holding20,000 or more on a regular basis. Apart from Anas penelope andAythya fuligula, this total is otherwise comprised mainly of Anasplatyrhynchos, Anas acuta, Anas querquedula and Aythya ferina.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Disturbance to birds (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Plans have been put forward for the establishment of a federal naturereserve (Zakaznik).

Sura environs A1, B1i, B2 188Admin region Chuvashskaya RepublicCoordinates 55°03’N 46°32’EAltitude 75–205 m Area 44,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe flood-plain of the Sura river between the towns of Ardatov andPoretskoye. Habitats include a number of old meanders and lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferous forest;mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (8%; standingfresh water; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (20%; highly improvedreseeded grassland; arable land; forestry plantation; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (45%), Forestry (50%), Nature conservation/research (5%)

■■■■■ BirdsBreeding birds in significant numbers include two globally threatenedspecies and Riparia riparia. Species of global conservation concern

645



Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1997 300 1,000 B B1iAquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1997 1 2 A A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 100 300 C A1Riparia riparia Sand Martin B 1997 20,000 — B B2


Anser erythropus P 1995 200 300 A A1, B1iLesser White-fronted Goose

Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1994 300 500 A B1i

Species Season Year Pop min Pop max Acc CriteriaAnser erythropus P 1988 10 20 A A1

Lesser White-fronted GooseAnser anser Greylag Goose B 1988 100 300 B B1iAnas strepera Gadwall B 1989 1,000 5,000 A A4i, B1i, B2Anas strepera Gadwall P 1989 1,000 10,000 A A4i, B1iAnas crecca Teal B 1989 2,000 10,000 A A4i, B1i


Anser erythropus P 1990 10 20,000 B A1, A4i, B1iLesser White-fronted Goose

Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1995 500 3,000 A B1iAnas penelope Wigeon P 1989 10,000 70,000 A A4i, B1iAnas crecca Teal P 1989 4,000 10,000 A B1iAythya marila Scaup P 1989 1,000 40,000 A A4i, B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle P 1991 10 15 A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe P 1994 100 150 B A1Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1990 50 150 A B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern P 1990 500 1,000 A A4i, B1i

that do not meet IBA criteria: Circus macrourus (at least 1 pair), Aquilaclanga (at least 1 pair).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None2,000 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Prisurskiy, 19,000 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (C), Deforestation (commercial) (C), Forestgrazing (C), Recreation/tourism (B), Selective logging/cutting (C)

Arski fish-ponds A1, B1i 189Admin region Tatarstan RepublicCoordinates 56°05’N 49°50’EAltitude 60–80 m Area 1,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA system of man-made fish-ponds located to the east of the town ofArsk.

Habitats Scrub (10%; scrub), Grassland (20%; humid grassland), Wetland (55%;standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (15%; highly improved reseeded grassland)Land-use Agriculture (45%), Fisheries/aquaculture (55%)


Although the site is of rather small extent, geese Anser stage in thearea during migration in significant numbers, especially the globallythreatened Anser erythropus, and 4,700–11,600 ducks also congregatehere on spring migration.



Threats Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Bird counts take place on a regular basis.

Kamsko-Ikski area A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 190Admin region Tatarstan RepublicCoordinates 55°40’N 53°50’EAltitude 62–62 m Area 100,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionLarge areas of flood-plain with many lakes and meanders, covered byaquatic vegetation and wet forest.

Habitats Forest and woodland (native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Scrub(20%; scrub), Grassland (41%; humid grassland), Wetland (39%; standing fresh water)Land-use Agriculture (60%), Fisheries/aquaculture (39%), Nature conservation/research (5%)


Very large numbers of wildfowl breed and migrate through the area.Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:Falco naumanni (occurs, but status uncertain).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None18,600 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Kamsko-Iksky, 18,600 ha).


Threats Construction/impact of dyke/dam/barrage (A), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Bulgarski A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 191Admin region Tatarstan RepublicCoordinates 55°00’N 49°10’EAltitude 76–100 m Area 25,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA shallow part of Kuybyshev reservoir and its islands, near the villageof Bulgar.

Habitats Forest and woodland (20%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Scrub (10%), Grassland (45%; humid grassland), Wetland (25%; standing fresh water)Land-use Agriculture (60%), Forestry (20%), Military (3%), Tourism/recreation (17%), Watermanagement


An important stop-over site for migrating waterbirds, holding 20,000or more on a regular basis, especially wildfowl.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International None50 ha of IBA covered by Natural Monument (Ostrov Spassk, 50 ha).


Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (B), Disturbance to birds (C),Unsustainable exploitation (C)

The Bulgarsky Historical-Natural Complex lies adjacent to the site.

Cheremshanski forest A1, B2 192Admin region Tatarstan Republic, Ul’yanovskCoordinates 54°30’N 50°05’EAltitude 50–150 m Area 100,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large tract of forest surrounded by cultivated land and permanentpasture.


Anas crecca Teal P 1989 5,500 27,000 A A4i, B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard B 1989 15,000 100,000 A A4i, B1iAnas platyrhynchos Mallard P 1989 30,000 200,000 A A4i, B1iAnas querquedula Garganey P 1989 500 50,000 A A4i, B1iAnas clypeata Shoveler B 1989 500 1,500 A B1iAnas clypeata Shoveler P 1989 1,400 31,000 A A4i, B1iAythya ferina Pochard B 1989 150 5,000 A A4i, B1i, B3Aythya ferina Pochard P 1989 300 16,000 A A4i, B1iAythya marila Scaup P 1989 — 8,000 B A4i, B1iSterna hirundo Common Tern P 1995 500 10,000 A A4i, B1iSterna albifrons Little Tern P 1988 20 1,000 B A4i, B1i

646





Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1996 10 15 A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 40 40 — A1Jynx torquilla Wryneck B 1996 200 500 — B2Luscinia luscinia Thrush Nightingale B 1996 1,600 1,600 A B3Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart B 1996 700 1,600 — B2Turdus philomelos Song Thrush B 1996 6,000 6,000 — B3Sylvia borin Garden Warbler B 1996 2,500 5,000 — B3Ficedula albicollis Collared Flycatcher B 1996 5,000 10,000 — B3Parus caeruleus Blue Tit B 1996 3,000 3,000 — B3Carduelis chloris Greenfinch B 1996 400 2,000 — B3Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1996 100 100 — B2


Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1997 2 2 A A1, B2


Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 400 600 B A1, B2Columba oenas Stock Dove B 1997 40 100 B B3Jynx torquilla Wryneck B 1997 800 1,000 B B2Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1997 100 200 B B2Phoenicurus phoenicurus Redstart B 1997 400 1,000 B B2Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush B 1997 1,200 1,800 B B3Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher B 1997 3,000 10,000 B B2Carduelis chloris Greenfinch B 1997 800 1,800 B B3


Anser anser Greylag Goose P 1996 15 2,000 — B1iHaliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle W 1996 42 42 — A1Vanellus vanellus Lapwing P 1996 180,000 — — A4i, B1i

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (20%; humid grassland;mesophile grassland), Artificial landscape (15%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (65%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


An important site for breeding Aquila heliaca.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational None International NoneThere is no up-to-date information.


Threats Disturbance to birds (C), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Zhigulevsk Nature Reserve A1, B2, B3 193Admin region SamaraCoordinates 53°15’N 49°45’EAltitude 28–375 m Area 23,140 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe site is located on the shore of the River Volga, and is dissected bygorges and ravines.

Habitats Forest and woodland (94%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


The area supports significant numbers of breeding birds of forest andforest-steppe habitats. Haliaeetus albicilla winters in importantnumbers, but also breeds in the area (3–4 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None23,140 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Zhigulevskiy, 23,140 ha).

Tashlinski forest A1, B2 194Admin region SamaraCoordinates 53°47’N 49°40’EAltitude 100–150 m Area 1,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA small forest surrounded by primary steppe, in the north-west of theSamara region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest), Grassland (10%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland)Land-use Agriculture (10%), Forestry (90%)





Threats Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Racheyski forest A1, B2, B3 195Admin region SamaraCoordinates 53°25’N 48°15’EAltitude 200–315 m Area 40,100 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionForested hills surrounded by agricultural land, on the boundarybetween the Samara and Ul’yanovsk regions.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest), Wetland (3%; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificiallandscape (47%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (10%)


Important numbers of Crex crex breed, and several species of forest/woodland are particularly common.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None40,100 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Staro-Racheiskiy,40,100 ha).


Threats Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B), Other (B)

Damage is caused to tree-trunks by the collection of sap (‘Other’threat).

Suskanski Nature Reserve A1, A4i, B1i 196Admin region SamaraCoordinates 53°45’N 49°15’EAltitude 48–89 m Area 40,500 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area includes stretches of shallow water along the shore of theKuybyshev reservoir.

Habitats Forest and woodland (5%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Wetland (28%;mudflat/sandflat; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (66%; arable land; perennialcrops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture (65%), Fisheries/aquaculture (27%), Forestry (5%), Hunting (70%),Nature conservation/research (19%)


Haliaeetus albicilla, of global conservation concern, winters insignificant numbers, with 1–2 pairs also breeding. Several speciesoccur in large numbers on passage, most importantly Vanellusvanellus.

647



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1997 2 5 C A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1997 100 200 B A1Columba oenas Stock Dove B 1997 100 200 B B3Columba palumbus Woodpigeon B 1997 800 1,000 B B3Otus scops Scops Owl B 1997 50 100 C B2Strix aluco Tawny Owl R 1997 100 200 B B3Lullula arborea Woodlark B 1997 450 500 B B2Luscinia luscinia Thrush Nightingale B 1997 1,500 2,000 B B3Turdus philomelos Song Thrush B 1997 2,500 3,000 B B3Turdus viscivorus Mistle Thrush B 1997 2,500 2,700 B B3Locustella fluviatilis River Warbler B 1997 1,500 1,700 B B3Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler B 1997 1,500 1,800 B B3Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler B 1997 9,000 10,000 B B3Sylvia borin Garden Warbler B 1997 17,000 18,000 B B3Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycatcher B 1997 20,000 21,000 B B2Ficedula hypoleuca Pied Flycatcher B 1997 20,000 22,000 B B3Lanius collurio Red-backed Shrike B 1997 300 1,000 C B2Carduelis chloris Greenfinch B 1997 5,000 6,000 B B3Emberiza hortulana Ortolan Bunting B 1997 50 100 C B2


Mergus albellus Smew B 1990 10 — A A3Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover B 1990 200 — A B3Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1990 200 — A A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1990 20 — A A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1990 30 — A A3Prunella atrogularis B 1990 50 — A B2

Black-throated AccentorPhylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1990 100 — — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit B 1990 Abundant — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1990 Abundant — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1990 Abundant — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1990 Abundant — A3Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak B 1990 100 — A A3

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None40,500 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Suskansky, 40,500 ha).


Threats Dredging/canalization (A)

Buzulukski forest A1, B2, B3 197Admin region Samara, OrenburgCoordinates 53°00’N 52°00’EAltitude 48–219 m Area 111,210 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOne of the largest tracts of pine Pinus forest in the steppe zone ofsouthern European Russia, located on the border between the Samaraand Orenburg regions.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest; nativeconiferous forest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Wetland (10%; river/stream; fen/transition mire/spring), Artificial landscape (10%; arable land; otherurban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (4%), Forestry (90%), Not utilized (4%), Urban/industrial/transport (3%)


Breeding birds include two globally threatened species and manyspecies of European conservation concern, in significant numbers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None111,210 ha of IBA covered by unknown type of protected area(Buzulukskiy Bor, 111,210 ha).


Threats Groundwater abstraction (A), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainableexploitation (C)

Kamsko-Yayvenski wetland A1, B2 198Admin region PermCoordinates 59°10’N 56°20’EAltitude 108–122 m Area 35,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn area of bogs and very wet forest along the eastern shore of theKamskoye reservoir.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(2%; humid grassland), Wetland (58%; standing fresh water; raised bog)Land-use Fisheries/aquaculture (10%), Hunting (10%), Nature conservation/research (30%),Water management (50%)


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1994 5 — A A1Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1994 1 3 A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1994 24 — A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1994 30 — A A1Acrocephalus paludicola Aquatic Warbler B 1994 9 — A A1, B2


Five species of global conservation concern breed, including threeglobally threatened species.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None10,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Bereznikovskiy, 13,000 ha).


Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainableexploitation (A)

Verkhnevisherski A3, B2, B3 199mountainAdmin region PermCoordinates 61°10’N 59°00’EAltitude 252–1,469 m Area 180,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA forested mountain with alpine grassland and tundra-like habitat onthe summit.

Habitats Forest and woodland (70%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(25%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Breeding species include 10 of the 15 species in Europe that arerestricted to the boreal biome (when breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International Partial180,000 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Visherskiy, 241,200 ha).

Kumikushski wetland A1, A3, A4iii 200Admin region PermCoordinates 60°20’N 55°15’EAltitude 124–131 m Area 80,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionOpen bogs and mires with a system of lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; mixed forest), Wetland (83%; standing fresh water;river/stream; raised bog; water-fringe vegetation; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Forestry

■■■■■ BirdsBreeding species include three species of global conservationconcern, as well as 10 of the 15 species in Europe that are restricted to

648



Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1991 5 — — A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 95 — — A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 75 — — A1Larus minutus Little Gull B 1996 450 — — A4i, B1i, B2Sterna albifrons Little Tern B 1991 200 — — A4i, B1iChlidonias leucopterus B 1996 800 — — A4i, B1i

White-winged Black Tern1 Acrocephalus paludicola B 1996 10 — — A1, B2

Aquatic Warbler

1. Singing males.

the boreal biome when breeding (no counts of abundance have beenmade). Significant proportion (≥1%) of national population breedingat site: Aquila chrysaetos (2 pairs). A good variety of waterbirds eitherbreed or occur on passage, with more than 20,000 staging in the areaduring migration.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None78,400 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Pernaty, 78,400 ha).


Threats Drainage (A), Extraction industry (A), Filling-in of wetlands (A), Intensified forestmanagement (A), Recreation/tourism (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Data on individual bird species are incomplete, and further surveysare required.

Adovo-Chugrumski A1, A3, B2 201wetlandAdmin region PermCoordinates 60°15’N 53°05’EAltitude 158–204 m Area 21,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionTwo extensive raised bogs with a large lake, Adovo, in the southernpart of the area.

Habitats Forest and woodland (10%; native coniferous forest), Wetland (90%; standingfresh water; raised bog)Land-use Forestry (10%), Nature conservation/research (90%)


Breeding species include 14 of the 15 species in Europe that arerestricted to the boreal biome (when breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None21,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Ozero Adovo, 111,000 ha).


Threats Intensified forest management (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Khvarkush and A1, A4i, B1i, B2, B3 202Zolotoy Kamen’ ridgesAdmin region PermCoordinates 60°15’N 58°35’EAltitude 332–1,066 m Area 130,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionTwo forested ridges in the mountainous part of the Perm region.Typical boreal montane habitats with spruce Picea forests at loweraltitudes and treeline ecotone, alpine grassland and tundra-like habitaton the ridge-tops. Human activities include reindeer-herding.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest; treelineecotone), Grassland (60%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland)Land-use Agriculture (60%), Forestry (40%)


Two species of global conservation concern breed here in importantnumbers, but data on species and numbers for the site as a whole areincomplete, and further surveys are needed.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None23,000 ha of IBA covered by Zakaznik (Khrebet Kvarkush, 23,000 ha).

Nizhnekamskaya A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 203flood-plainAdmin region Perm, Udmurtia RepublicCoordinates 56°45’N 53°50’EAltitude 77–100 m Area 8,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA narrow strip of wet forest along the Kama river, situated on theborder between the Udmurtia Republic and the Perm region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (60%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (30%; humid grassland),Wetland (10%; fen/transition mire/spring)Land-use Forestry


Four species of global conservation concern breed within the IBA,two of which are globally threatened, as well as three species of gull/tern in important numbers. The site holds 20,000 or more waterbirdsduring spring migration, on a regular basis.



Threats Deforestation (commercial) (A), Disturbance to birds (A), Drainage (A),Extraction industry (A), Forest grazing (A), Intensified forest management (A), Recreation/tourism (A)


Podiceps auritus Slavonian Grebe B 1995 5 10 — A3Mergus albellus Smew B 1995 — — — A3Aquila chrysaetos Golden Eagle R 1993 4 6 A B2Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe B 1995 100 200 — A3Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 40 60 — A1Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1995 80 85 — A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1995 1 2 — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1995 2 5 — A3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1995 2,000 — — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit R 1995 100 800 — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay R 1995 10 20 — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1995 400 500 — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill R 1995 — 10 — A3Loxia pytyopsittacus Parrot Crossbill R 1995 — — — A3Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak R 1995 — — — A3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1995 1,500 1,500 — A3


Haliaeetus albicilla White-tailed Eagle B 1995 5 — A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 30 50 B A1Lymnocryptes minimus Jack Snipe B 1995 — — — A3Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 50 — A A1Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1995 — — — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1995 — — — A3Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1995 Common — A3Parus cinctus Siberian Tit B 1995 Common — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1995 Common — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1995 Common — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1995 — — — A3Pinicola enucleator Pine Grosbeak B 1995 — — — A3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1995 — — — A3


Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1995 2 2 — A1Pluvialis apricaria Golden Plover B 1995 — 200 — B3Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1995 — 100 — A1, A4i, B1iPicoides tridactylus R 1995 — 100 — B2

Three-toed Woodpecker

649



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1997 2 5 C A1, B2






Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1996 3 — A A1Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 2 — A A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 500 600 A A1, B2Otus scops Scops Owl B 1996 10,000 — A B2


Crex crex Corncrake B 1995 100 150 — A1Picoides tridactylus B 1995 100 100 — B2

Three-toed Woodpecker

Bashkirski Nature Reserve A1, B2 204Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 53°22’N 57°52’EAltitude — Area 49,609 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA forested massif in the southern Ural mountains. The forest isdominated by Pinus, Larix and Betula, and there are also some areasof forest-steppe.

Habitats Forest and woodland (76%; native coniferous forest; alluvial/very wet forest),Grassland (23%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Important numbers of Crex crex breed in the forest-steppe zone.Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBAcriteria: Aquila heliaca (1 pair). Significant proportion (≥1%) ofnational population breeding at site: Aquila chrysaetos (2–3 pairs).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None49,609 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Bashkirsky, 49,609 ha).

Octyabr’ski forest A1, B2 205Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 54°23’N 53°40’EAltitude 100–350 m Area 50,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large forest in the forest-steppe zone, located in the extensiveagricultural lands in the south-west of the Bashkortostan Republic.

Habitats Forest and woodland (65%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland;mesophile grassland), Artificial landscape (15%; arable land; urban parks/gardens)Land-use Agriculture (30%), Forestry (65%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


An important area for breeding Aquila heliaca.



Threats Selective logging/cutting (C), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

There is no precise information regarding the protection status ofthe area.

Mountain valley of Sakmara river A1, B2 206Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 51°55’N 57°37’EAltitude 250–500 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAreas of broadleaved forest with patches of steppe and scrub, withinthe valley of the Sakmara river.

Habitats Forest and woodland (40%; broadleaved deciduous forest; mixed forest), Scrub (20%;scrub), Grassland (35%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (5%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (40%), Forestry (60%)





Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Disturbance to birds (C)

Nikiforovski forest A1, B2 207Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 53°53’N 54°45’EAltitude 100–300 m Area 20,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionAn extensive area of unbroken forest, located north-west from thetown of Sterlitamak in the forest-steppe zone.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Grassland (30%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Artificiallandscape (20%; arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (45%), Forestry (50%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)





Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainable exploitation (C)

Watershed of Bel’skaya A1, B2 208and Nugush riversAdmin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 53°05’N 57°00’EAltitude 297–1,040 m Area 150,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA covers the watershed between the Bel’skaya and Nugushrivers. Habitats include mountain ridges and rocky river-shores.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; broadleaved deciduous forest; native coniferousforest; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest; wooded steppe), Grassland (7%; humidgrassland; mesophile grassland), Wetland (3%)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


Two globally threatened eagles Aquila breed in important numbers,as does Crex crex locally in wet grassland along the two rivers.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International NonePart of IBA covered by National Park (Bashkiriya, 98,000 ha). Partof IBA covered by Zapovednik (Shulgan Tash, 22,531 ha). Part ofIBA covered by regional Zakaznik (Altyn-Solok).

650



Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1994 14 — A A1, B2Aquila clanga Greater Spotted Eagle B 1994 6 — A A1Crex crex Corncrake B 1994 100 — A A1Grus grus Crane P 1994 1,000 2,000 A A4i, B1iGallinago media Great Snipe B 1994 50 — A A1Acrocephalus paludicola B 1994 12 — A A1, B2

Aquatic Warbler


Mergus albellus Smew B 1996 4 — A A3Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 2 — A A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 20 — A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 20 — A A1Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1996 25 — A A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1996 5 — A A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1996 10 — A A3Prunella atrogularis B 1996 30 — A B2

Black-throated Accentor Phylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1996 150 — A A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1996 25 — A A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B — — — — A3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B — — — — A3


Mergus albellus Smew B 1996 5 — — A3Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1996 2 — A A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 20 — A A1Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 20 — A A1Tringa nebularia Greenshank B 1996 18 — — A3Surnia ulula Hawk Owl R 1996 2 — — A3Strix nebulosa Great Grey Owl R 1996 5 — — A3Prunella atrogularis B 1996 20 — — B2

Black-throated AccentorPhylloscopus borealis Arctic Warbler B 1996 Common — A3Perisoreus infaustus Siberian Jay B 1996 Common — A3Fringilla montifringilla Brambling B 1996 Common — A3Loxia leucoptera Two-barred Crossbill B 1996 Common — A3Emberiza rustica Rustic Bunting B 1996 Common — A3

Breeding species include three species of global conservation concern(two of which are globally threatened), as well as eight of the 15 speciesin Europe that are restricted to the boreal biome (when breeding). Theavifauna contains west Siberian species, of biogeographical interest,e.g. Prunella atrogularis.

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Partial International None100,000 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Yuzhno–Uralskiy,254,914 ha).


Threats Infrastructure (A)

Iremel’ski mountain A1, A3, B2 211Admin region Bashkortostan Republic, ChelyabinskCoordinates 54°30’N 59°00’EAltitude 612–1,582 m Area 90,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is located in a mountainous part of the Bashkortostan Republic,to the south-east of the village of Meseda, near to the border with theChelyabinsk region.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(10%; alpine/subalpine/boreal grassland)Land-use Forestry (20%), Tourism/recreation (80%)


Breeding species include three species of global conservation concern(two of which are globally threatened), and nine of the 15 species inEurope that are restricted to the boreal biome (when breeding).



Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (A)

A project is underway to establish a National Park here. Availablebird data are incomplete and more survey work is required.

Irendyk ridge A1, A4i, A4iv, B1i, B1iv, B2 212Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 53°20’N 58°30’EAltitude 416–1,118 m Area 150,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA narrow forested mountain ridge, 10–20 km in length and surroundedby steppe.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%), Grassland (20%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland;humid grassland)Land-use Agriculture (60%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (40%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (C), Deforestation (commercial) (A),Disturbance to birds (B), Forest grazing (B)

Bird data are incomplete, and further surveys are required.

Bel’skaya flood-plain A1, A4i, B1i, B2 209Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 55°05’N 55°45’EAltitude 80–203 m Area 42,800 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe valley flood-plain of the Bel’skaya river, to the north-west of thetown of Ufa. Habitats consists primarily of wet grasslands, wet forestand numerous oxbow lakes.

Habitats Forest and woodland (50%; mixed forest; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland(10%; humid grassland), Wetland (25%; standing fresh water; fen/transition mire/spring),Artificial landscape (15%; arable land; perennial crops/orchards/groves)Land-use Agriculture, Forestry


Five species of global conservation concern breed, including threeglobally threatened species. The area attracts large numbers of Grusgrus on passage.



Threats Disturbance to birds (B), Drainage (A), Extraction industry (A), Industrialization/urbanization (A), Infrastructure (A), Recreation/tourism (B), Unsustainable exploitation (B)

Conservation measures should be taken to protect the site.

Yamantau mountain A1, A3, B2 210Admin region Bashkortostan RepublicCoordinates 54°20’N 58°15’EAltitude 554–1,640 m Area 120,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA typical example of taiga forest, covering several high mountain-ridges dissected by the upper reaches of various rivers, located to thenorth-east of the town of Inzer.

Habitats Forest and woodland (90%; native coniferous forest; mixed forest), Grassland(10%; dry siliceous grassland)Land-use Nature conservation/research (90%), Unknown (10%)


651



Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 15 — A A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 40 40 — A1Otus scops Scops Owl B 1996 3,000 — A B2




Anas penelope Wigeon P 1997 8,000 10,000 B B1i


Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 50 100 A A1, B2Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel B 1996 2 10 B A1, B2Crex crex Corncrake B 1996 300 — A A1Glareola nordmanni B 1996 12 — A A1

Black-winged Pratincole Gallinago media Great Snipe B 1996 100 — A A1, A4i, B1iOtus scops Scops Owl B 1996 7,000 7,000 A B2


Five species of global conservation concern breed within the IBA. Theridge is a major migratory bottleneck site for more than 20,000 raptors,which breed mainly in western Siberia.



Threats Agricultural intensification/expansion (A), Disturbance to birds (B), Intensifiedforest management (A)

A nature park is in the process of being established at the site.

Maly Nakas ridge A1, B2 213Admin region Bashkortostan Republic, OrenburgCoordinates 52°35’N 56°15’EAltitude 335–667 m Area 50,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe IBA is situated on the border between the Bashkortostan Republicand the Orenburg region, and contains oak-pine (Quercus-Pinus) forests.

Habitats Forest and woodland (80%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Grassland (20%;steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland)Land-use Agriculture (35%), Forestry (60%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)


Significant numbers of two species of global conservation concernbreed in the area.



Threats Forest grazing (A), Infrastructure (A), Intensified forest management (A)

It has been suggested that a regional Zakaznik be created here.

Steppe valley of Sakmara river A1, B2 214Admin region OrenburgCoordinates 51°32’N 56°55’EAltitude 200–300 m Area 75,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA forest-steppe landscape, about half of which remains relativelynatural, the other half having been converted to cultivated land.

Habitats Forest and woodland (15%; broadleaved deciduous forest; alluvial/very wetforest), Grassland (35%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland), Artificial landscape (50%;arable land; other urban/industrial areas)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Forestry (15%), Urban/industrial/transport (5%)





Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Unsustainableexploitation (B)

Kupy area A4iii, B1i 215Admin region OrenburgCoordinates 51°14’N 53°46’EAltitude 70–85 m Area 2,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionMeadows on the flood-plain of the Ilek river, in the south-east of theOrenburg region near the border with Kazakhstan.

Habitats Forest and woodland (6%; alluvial/very wet forest), Grassland (79%; steppe/drycalcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (15%; sand-dunes/sand beach; standingfresh water; river/stream; water-fringe vegetation)Land-use Agriculture (80%), Fisheries/aquaculture (5%), Forestry (6%), Watermanagement (8%)


The site supports 20,000 or more migrating waterbirds on a regularbasis, involving more than 50 species, with Anas penelope occurring inimportant numbers. Breeding species of global conservation concernthat do not meet IBA criteria: Haliaeetus albicilla (1–2 pairs), Circusmacrourus (4–5 pairs).



Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Firewood collection (B), Selective logging/cutting (B),Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Kulaksay lowland A1, A3, A4i, B1i, B2 216Admin region OrenburgCoordinates 50°44’N 55°50’EAltitude 140–150 m Area 5,000 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThis area lies on a flyway used by geese Anser/Branta on springmigration, a route known about for more than 100 years, lying to thesouth-east of the town of Akbulak.

Habitats Forest and woodland (3%; broadleaved deciduous forest), Scrub (1%; scrub),Grassland (75%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland (20%;sand-dunes/sand beach; standing fresh water; river/stream), Artificial landscape (1%)Land-use Agriculture (75%), Fisheries/aquaculture (7%), Forestry (3%), Hunting (90%),Nature conservation/research (3%)


Five species of global conservation concern occur in importantnumbers. Three of the four are globally threatened, staging in the areaduring migration, while Chettusia gregaria and Circus macrourus breed(both restricted to the Eurasian steppe biome when breeding). Breedingspecies of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria:


Anser erythropus P 1997 200 350 C A1, B1iLesser White-fronted Goose

Branta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1997 2,430 — B A1, A4i, B1iCircus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1997 — 10 A A1, A3, B2Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel P 1997 60 100 B A1Chettusia gregaria Sociable Plover B 1997 — 5 C A3

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BLAGOVIDOV, A., CHEBAKOVA, I. AND WILLIAMS, M. (1995) Immediate actionplan for the protected-area system of Russia (priorities for investment).Washington, DC: World Bank/GEF.

GALUSHIN, V. M. AND ZUBAKIN, V. A. (1998) Research priorities for birdconservation in Russia. Pp. 355–366 in J. M. Marzluff and R. Sallabanks,eds. Avian conservation. Research and management. Washington, DC: IslandPress.

GANUSEVYCH, S. A. (1983) [On the composition and distribution of raptorson the Kola Peninsula.] Ecology of raptors. Moscow. (In Russian.)

GANUSEVYCH, S. A. (1988) [Raptors of the Kola Peninsula.] Ornithology Res.23: 73–80. (In Russian).

GRIMMETT, R. F. A. AND JONES, T. A., EDS. (1989) Important bird areas inEurope. Cambridge, UK: International Council for Bird Preservation(Techn. Publ. no. 3).

HEATH, M. F. AND BORGGREVE, C. (2000) BirdLife International/EBCCEuropean Bird Database 1998. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International.

IUCN (1994) Guidelines for protected area management categories. Gland,Switzerland, and Cambridge, UK: International Union for theConservation of Nature and Natural Resources.

KALABIN, G. V., ED. (1992) [Special protected areas in the Murmansk region.]Apatity. (In Russian.)

KRIVENKO, V. G. (1995) Inventory of wetlands of international importance inthe Russian Federation. Final report 1994–1995. Ministry of Protection ofthe Environment and Natural Resources of the Russian Federation. Centrefor International Projects. (Unpublished.)

KRIVENKO, V. G., ED. (1998) [Wetlands in Russia, Vol. 1 (Wetlands ofinternational importance)]. Moscow: Wetlands International (PublicationNo. 47). (In Russian.)

LANGEVELD, M. J. AND GRIMMETT, R. F. A. (1990) Important Bird Areas inEurope: wetlands for the shadow list of Ramsar sites. Cambridge, UK:International Council for Bird Preservation/Slimbridge, UK: InternationalWildfowl and Wetlands Research Bureau.

SKOKOVA, N. N. AND VINOGRADOV, V. G., EDS. (1988) [Conservation ofwaterbird sites.] Moscow. (In Russian.)

SOBOLEV, N. A., SHVARTS, E. A., KREINDLIN, M. L., MOKIEVSKI. V. O. AND

ZUBAKIN, V. A. (1995) Russia’s protected areas: a survey and identificationof development problems. Biodiversity and Conservation 4: 964–983.

STATTERSFIELD, A. J., CROSBY, M. J., LONG, A. J. AND WEGE, D. C. (1998)Endemic Bird Areas of the World: priorities for biodiversity conservation.Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International (BirdLife Conservation Seriesno. 7).

TUCKER, G. M. AND HEATH, M. F. (1994) Birds in Europe: their conservationstatus. Cambridge, UK: BirdLife International (BirdLife ConservationSeries no. 3).

VOLKOV, A. E., ED. (1996) Strict Nature Reserves (Zapovedniki) of Russia.Collection of ‘Chronicle of Nature’ data for 1991–1992. Moscow:Sabashnikov.

REFERENCES

all in highly significant numbers. Vast numbers of Anser albifrons(more than 200,000) also occur on passage. Further research on thespring and autumn migrations is required.



Threats Abandonment/reduction of land management (A), Aquaculture/fisheries (B),Disturbance to birds (A), Unsustainable exploitation (A)

Orenburgski Nature Reserve A1, A3, B2 218Admin region OrenburgCoordinates 51°15’N 57°20’EAltitude 90–200 m Area 21,600 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionThe area consists of several isolated expanses of undulating steppe,including four sections of the Orenburgski Nature Reserve whichcontain large patches of primary grassland steppe.

Habitats Grassland (90%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland)Land-use Nature conservation/research (100%)


An important breeding area for two globally threatened species, withsignificant numbers of three lark species also present (including onethat is restricted to the Eurasian steppe biome when breeding).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational High International None21,600 ha of IBA covered by Zapovednik (Orenburgskiy, 21,653 ha).

Haliaeetus albicilla, Crex crex (10–15 pairs), Tetrax tetrax (8–10 pairs),and Otis tarda (no data).

■■■■■ Protection statusNational Low International NoneSome of the forest is protected, but no more information is availablecurrently.


Threats Disturbance to birds (A), Selective logging/cutting (B), Unsustainableexploitation (A)

There is a special limitation on spring hunting.

Shalkaro–Zhetykolski A1, A4i, A4iii, B1i, B2 217lake systemAdmin region OrenburgCoordinates 50°55’N 60°50’EAltitude 320–370 m Area 81,250 ha

■■■■■ Site descriptionA large system of lakes in the steppe zone of the eastern Orenburgregion, near to the border with Kazakhstan.

Habitats Grassland (80%; steppe/dry calcareous grassland; humid grassland), Wetland(20%; standing fresh water), Artificial landscape (30%; arable land)Land-use Agriculture (65%), Not utilized (9%), Other (25%)


A very important area for species of global conservation concern.Three such species breed while two others stage here during migration,


Pelecanus crispus Dalmatian Pelican B 1996 — 13 — A1, A4i, B1i, B2Anser albifrons White-fronted Goose P 1996 200,000 300,000 B A4i, B1iAnser erythropus P 1996 500 1,500 B A1, A4i, B1i

Lesser White-fronted GooseAnser anser Greylag Goose B 1996 100 — — B1iAnser anser Greylag Goose N 1996 1,000 1,500 — B1iBranta ruficollis Red-breasted Goose P 1996 10,000 15,000 A A1, A4i, B1iCircus macrourus Pallid Harrier B 1996 10 100 B A1, B2Glareola nordmanni B 1996 100 150 B A1, A4i, B1i, B2



Aquila heliaca Imperial Eagle B 1990 — 6 C A1, A3, B21 Tetrax tetrax Little Bustard B 1990 — 43 C A1Melanocorypha yeltoniensis B 1990 4,000 12,000 C A3, B2

Black LarkCalandrella brachydactyla B 1990 2,000 7,000 C B2

Short-toed LarkAlauda arvensis Skylark B 1990 11,000 30,000 C B2


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