Nature Museum of the Astrakhan State Nature Biosphere Reserve

About museum

The museum houses a collection of more than 259 items, of which 259 are on display. The Astrakhan Reserve was established in 1919 to protect the unique natural complexes of the Volga Delta. Today the reserve includes three sites in the lower reaches of the Volga Delta. The reserve plays an important role in the restoration and conservation of the flora and fauna of the Volga Delta and the Northern Caspian. It was designated as a biosphere reserve in 1984. The reserve is home to numerous birds, including mallards, shovelers, pintails, diving ducks and teals. Mammals such as wild boar, wolves, foxes and field mice can also be found here. More than 290 species of plants grow in the reserve, including rare lotuses. The Caspian Ornithological Station, which studies birds, operates nearby. The Astrakhan Reserve is the largest bird ringing (banding) center.