Miankaleh Peninsula - Ecology

Ecology

A G G H K LU M T D UNESCO Biosphere Reserves in Iran

Miankaleh peninsula is one of the richest ecological havens in West Asia and perhaps in the whole world. It is home to many unique Caspian bird and reptile species native to this region. It's also a very important internationally-recognized refuge for migratory birds. Flora and fauna include:

• Raspberry, common medlar, Mediterranean hackberry, Jerusalem Thorn, Populus, Salsola, Cyperaceae, and Polygonum;
• Wolf, Jackal, fox, Hedgehog, Wild boar, Caspian seal, Flamingo, Black Francolin, Falcon, Peregrine Falcon, and Little Bustard;
• Common carp, Caspian White Fish, Zander, Crucian carp, Mullet; and
• endangered birds: Coot, Purple Swamphen, Smew, Flamingo, White-headed Duck, Red-breasted Goose, and Whooper Swan.

The peninsula, with Gorgan Bay, has been designated an International Wetland (Ramsar site) in 1975 and an international UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1976. On the national level, it is protected under the "Wildlife Refuge" status by the Iranian Dept. of Environment.