Naurzum Nature Reserve

The Naurzum State Reserve, established in 1966, was created to safeguard the rare and unique natural ecosystems, flora, and fauna of the steppe region in northern Kazakhstan. Spanning 191,381 hectares, the reserve’s size was expanded by an additional 106,687 hectares between 1999 and 2004 by the Kazakhstan government. In 2008, the Naurzum Reserve, as part of the “Saryarka – Steppes and Lakes of Northern Kazakhstan” project, was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Located between the Tobol and Turgai rivers, the reserve’s landscape is further enriched by the Dana-Bike and Naurzum-Karasu rivers, which during high water periods, connect with the lakes to form vast floodplains. The Naurzum Reserve is one of Kazakhstan’s richest natural reserves, boasting not only large rivers and numerous lakes but also mountain-fed springs and brooks. Among its most significant water bodies are the freshwater lakes of Aksaut and the saline lakes of Sarymoin.

The reserve is home to 687 species of plants, a remarkable diversity for the steppe and semi-steppe zones. It is particularly known for its ancient relict pine forests, which have remained largely unchanged for hundreds of years. Rare plant species like the Shrenk tulip, listed in the Red Book, also thrive in this protected area.

Naurzum’s fauna is equally impressive. The reserve is a critical habitat for 282 bird species, with 158 of them nesting within its borders. It is a sanctuary for various predators, including 28 species of birds of prey, 18 of which nest in the reserve. Notable among these are the golden eagle, imperial eagle, and steppe eagle. Other birds include the pale harrier, Montagu’s harrier, marsh harrier, saker falcon, black kite, and hawks. This rich birdlife is supported by the abundance of water sources within the reserve, and 23 bird species are listed in the Red Book for conservation.

Regarding mammals, 42 species permanently inhabit the reserve. These include elk, roe deer, wild boar, and marmots. Predators such as wolves, foxes, corsacs, and lynx roam the area, while badgers can be found near the lakes. The steppe is also home to a variety of rodents, including the large-toothed souslik, red-cheeked souslik, little souslik, hamsters, and animals like the eared hedgehog, jerboas, and brown hares.

The reserve’s lakes are home to 10 species of fish, including goldfish, Chinese carp, lake minnows, common carp, dace, and peled. Eco-tourism enthusiasts, as well as those passionate about hunting and fishing, will find Naurzum State Reserve an ideal destination for enjoying nature’s beauty and richness.