The reserve is home to approximately 43 species of mammals, 170 bird species, and numerous reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Notable large mammals include the West Caucasian tur, chamois, brown bear, and European bison (reintroduced). The reserve serves as an important habitat for endangered species like the Caucasian leopard (occasionally sighted) and bearded vulture. The diverse bird population includes both resident species like the Caucasian black grouse and seasonal migrants. The reserve's waters support various trout species and other endemic fish.
The reserve hosts over 1,300 species of vascular plants, including 24 endemic species unique to the Caucasus region. Vegetation zones are clearly stratified by altitude, beginning with mixed broadleaf forests of beech, oak, and maple in lower regions, transitioning to coniferous forests of pine and fir at middle elevations, and alpine meadows above the tree line. The reserve is particularly notable for its diverse array of medicinal plants and rare species such as the Caucasian hellebore and various orchid species. Many plants are listed in the Russian Red Book of endangered species.
The reserve encompasses part of the Greater Caucasus Mountain range, featuring dramatic glacial landscapes formed during the Pleistocene epoch. The territory includes over 100 glaciers and numerous glacial lakes. The geological composition consists primarily of metamorphic and igneous rocks, including granites, gneisses, and crystalline schists. The area exhibits classic alpine relief with deep valleys, sharp ridges, and peaks, including Mount Dombai-Ulgen (4,047m). The reserve contains numerous karst formations, caves, and mineral springs, reflecting its complex geological history.
Established in 1936, Teberdinsky Nature Reserve (Teberda State Nature Biosphere Reserve) was created to protect the unique natural ecosystems of the North Caucasus Mountains. The reserve initially covered 85,064 hectares and was later expanded. It gained UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status in 1997, recognizing its importance for conservation and scientific research. The area has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times, including remains of Alanian settlements from the 8th-12th centuries AD. During the Soviet era, the reserve became an important center for ecological research and monitoring.
Key attractions include Lake Tumanly-Kel (Dead Lake), a pristine glacial lake at 2,800m elevation, and the Alibek Glacier, accessible via marked hiking trails. The reserve contains several spectacular waterfalls, including the Alibek and Amanauz falls. The Dombai resort area, while technically outside the reserve, serves as a popular gateway for visitors. The reserve maintains several ecological trails, research stations, and a natural history museum in Teberda town. Visitors can observe wildlife from designated viewing points and participate in guided educational tours when arranged in advance through the reserve's administration.
Teberdinsky Reserve experiences a diverse mountain climate influenced by its varying elevations (from 1,260 to 4,047 meters). Summers are mild and relatively short, with average July temperatures around 15°C (59°F) in the valleys. Winters are long and cold, particularly at higher elevations, with January temperatures averaging -5°C (23°F) in lower areas and much colder in the mountains. Annual precipitation ranges from 700mm in the valleys to over 3,000mm at higher elevations, with maximum rainfall occurring in spring and early summer. Snow cover typically lasts from October to April in the alpine zones.
Russia
43.4430°, 41.7380°
1936
850
Teberdinsky Nature Reserve is located in the North Caucasus Mountains. The reserve features dramatic alpine landscapes with glaciers, mountain lakes, and dense forests. It protects numerous endangered species including the West Caucasian tur and Persian leopard.