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The Khankaisky (Lake Khanka) Nature PreserveAbout 9 hours drive from Vladivostok in the Primorsky Krai
Lake Khanka is the largest freshwater lake in the Russian Far East. It is very shallow despite its large area. Because the lake is surrounded by marsh areas, Lake Khanka presents a unique opportunity to observe different species of birds during their seasonal migration. The Khankaisky Nature Preserve is one of the youngest nature preserves in the Primorsky Krai. The Khankaisky Nature Preserve is located in the center of Prikhankaiskaya Lowland. The dominant landscapes of the preserve are grassy bogs, meadows, reed thickets and shallows.
By number of bird species (330) the preserve holds a leading position among all protected areas similar in size, not only in Russia but also in Asia and Europe. Most of the species breed in the preserve , while quite many stop at the preserve during seasonal migrations. During these periods, for example, the number of ducks, sometimes reach several hundred thousand. One of the most remarkable (and endangered) birds of the preserve is the crane. All 4 species of cranes registered in the preserve are listed in the International Red Data Book. While Hooded Cranes (Grus monachus) and Siberian White Cranes (G.Ieucogeranus) can be seen during migrations, two other species, white-naped crane(Grus vipko)and Japanese crane (Grus japonensis), nest in the protected area. In 1968 a new species of birds was observed in Lake Khanka, the Yangise parrotbill (Paradomxornis heudel) of which approximately 200 species are found in the Preserve.
One of the most remarkable species found in the Preserve is the lotus (Nelumbo nucilera komarovil). Its main habitat is Southeast Asia and Australia. The blooming of the lotus reaches its peak in middle August. As time goes on, the petals turn from bright pink to almost white.
The best way to see the lake is by boat. Also you can observe the wetlands from the coastline. The preserve is located in the vicinity of the small park where you can view the Amur Tiger in its natural habitat. Simple accommodations are available. A more detailed Birding list is available from our office.
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