Definition of Location and Area
The Tandooreh National Park is situated in northeastern Iran near the Turkmenistan border on Razavi Khorasan Province With an area of ~58,000 hectares, this park is among the smallest, and yet one of the most highly significant protected areas in the country. There are rugged mountains, steep cliffs, deep valleys in the area, and altitudes range from 980 to 2,600 meters above sea level. The park is located in the Kopet Dag mountain range, known for its diversity and beautiful natural scenery.
History of Tandooreh National Park
Tandooreh National Park is a protected area in Iran which was established in 1968, as a national park due to its ecological importance. Tandooreh National Park is located near the village of Tandooreh and is home to a diverse range of animal and plant species, some of which are classified as rare and endangered. It is a key area for the protection of the northern Iranian ecosystems and forms a rich source of scientific research and ecotourism.
Habitat Diversity
Different plant and animal species are supported by a variety of habitats found at Tandooreh National Park:
Mountainous areas: Rugged peaks and cliffs provide homes for predators such as leopards and nesting spots for birds of prey.
Valleys and Canyons: A dense cover as well as corridors for wildlife movement.
Grasslands and Meadows: These serve as grazing grounds for herbivores and support the growth of several wildflowers.
Woodlands: In places, a mix of juniper, pistachio and almond trees.
Flora
Over 200 plant species on the Tandooreh National Park, many of which are adapted to the semi-arid climate. The vegetation includes:
Juniper Forests: These forests are found on higher altitude as they for play a very important role in preventing soil erosion.
Wild Pistachio and Almond Trees: Both are found in the park’s woodlands
Medicinal Plants: Like thyme, oregano, and mint, appreciated for their ethnic properties.
Spring Wildflowers: Brighten the landscape with colors during spring!
Fauna
Flora of Tandooreh National Park is rich and diverse as well as the fauna with relatively different species, including some rare and endangered species:
Mammals:
Persian Leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor): The park is a key stronghold for this critically endangered subspecies.
Wild Goat (Capra aegagrus): Frequently seen climbing over rocky slopes.
Wild Boar, Red Fox and Indian Wolf (Canis lupus pallipes) Common in various habitats
Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) and Pallas’s cat ( Otocolobus manul): Rare in the park.
Birds:
Tandooreh is a home to more than 90 species of birds such as:
Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) and Griffon Vulture (Gyps fulvus)
Chukar Partridge (Alectoris chukar) and Rock Nuthatch (Sitta neumayer).
Eastern Imperial Eagle (Aquila heliaca): A high risk of extinction.
Reptiles and Amphibians:
The park is home to many snakes, lizards, and geckos that are adapted to this rocky environment.
Insects:
The park’s ecosystem depends on many types of insects, including pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Conservation Challenges
Even though Tandooreh National Park has ecological value, there are some challenges such as:
Grazing/cause: Grazing of domestic livestock modifies the natural vegetation and disrupts the habitats.
Poaching: There is a elams against to some of the park’s wildlife, particularly Persian leopards and wild goats.
Climate Change: Rising temperatures and declining precipitation endanger the park’s water supplies and ecosystems.
However, efforts are being made to combat these threats, including anti-poaching initiatives, habitat conservation efforts, and education for local communities.