Naze-Qulot Grassland Nature Reserve

Naze-Qulot Grassland Nature Reserve

Naze-Qulot Grassland Nature Reserve

Naze-Qulot Grassland Nature Reserve is situated in the depths of the Nalati Mountains within the territory of Talede Town, at the headwaters of the Dajilgalan River. It is 30 kilometers away from the county seat as the crow flies, with a herding trail leading to the area. The geographical coordinates are generally within 43°03′–43°13′ north latitude and 83°31′30″ east longitude. The average elevation is 2,800 meters.

Approved in 1986, Naze-Qulot Grassland Nature Reserve is a regional-level nature reserve covering an area of 164 square kilometers. It primarily protects alpine meadows, subalpine meadows, meadow steppes, and their ecological environments. The alpine cold meadow steppe is characterized by sedge, wormwood, and showy forb grasses, with grass height below 30 centimeters and coverage between 40%–80%. The subalpine meadow is a typical cold and mesophilic colorful five-flower meadow, with grass height ranging from 30–60 centimeters and coverage over 80%. From September to May of the following year, the area experiences negative temperatures and is blocked by heavy snow. In contrast, the summer months from June to September transform it into high-quality grazing land, where the grasslands bloom with a variety of wildflowers. The region boasts extremely rich biodiversity, earning it the reputation of being a genetic repository for herbaceous plants. At elevations between 2,000 and 2,500 meters lies dense primeval Schrenk spruce forest, which remains undeveloped and in its primitive state due to limited accessibility.

“Naze” means “to act coquettishly” or “delicate and charming” in Kazakh. From a distance, the entire nature reserve resembles a young maiden in a green veil lying peacefully. Every summer, herders drive their cattle and sheep over the Chuluut Pass to Naze-Qulot Nature Reserve, instantly bringing liveliness to the grasslands. Overlooking the mountains, the felt yurts dot the hills like mushrooms, while flocks of sheep flow like clouds across the pasture, and the vibrant five-flower meadows delight even the sheep, causing them to leap and frolic. Does “Naze” refer to the mountain range resembling a charming maiden, or to the sheep frolicking playfully in admiration of this breathtaking landscape? The reserve is also home to rare wildlife such as red deer, brown bears, snowcocks, argali, badgers, and marmots.