2. GREATER CAUCASUS

Region 2: GREATER CAUCASUS

Uplands of the Greater Caucasus Mountains. The Greater Caucasus is a “young“ mountain system: it was formed 5 million years ago when the Caucasian island was pushed into Asia Minor. It is composed of steep rocky areas with high peaks. It has four peaks that exceed 5,000 m. The lower slopes of the Greater Caucasus and its branches are covered with primary mixed and broad– leaved forests. Above 2,000 meters these are displaced by stunted birch forest, then by sub– alpine and alpine meadows. Above 3,000 meters one finds alpine tundra, snow, and glaciers. The climate is harsh, with a huge drop in temperatures between day and night. Wildlife of the Greater Caucasus uplands is well preserved. Here one can observe many vultures (including lammergeier and cinereous vulture), various eagles, an endemic Caucasian black grouse and Caucasian snowcock, choughs, Güldenstädt’ s redstart, great rosefinch and other songbirds typical for Eurasian mountains. One can also observe flocks of East Caucasian turs and chamois, and occasionally brown bear. In the subalpine zone, one meets a variety of endemic adders and rock lizards, and spectacular butterflies. The fields of Caucasian rhododendron between spectacular rocks, rushing streams and clear mountain lakes make an indelible impression on hikers.