Ecotourism project post on Ak Bulung micro reserve activities in Ysyk-Köl

How birds return to the Ak-Bulun Peninsula and attract ecotourists

Imagine a quiet place on the southern shore of Lake Ysyk-Kol, where more than 80,000 birds find shelter during their winter migration. This place is the Ak-Bulun Peninsula. Various bird species such as whooper swan, white-tailed eagle and white-eyed nurok stop here. The peninsula plays an important role in their survival and its protection is of international importance.
But Ak-Bulun is not just about birds. It is an example of how conservation and community development can go hand in hand. In recent years, new ecotourism opportunities have been created here.

How are we helping the birds?

MuvGreen together with Ornithology and Eco-Tabiyat on Ak-Bulun built special nests for storks and floating islands so that the birds could nest safely while protecting themselves from predators. This has created a safe space where rare species can rest and breed. These conditions and quietness help the birds to return here.

Living fencing – protecting the peninsula for years to come One of the most interesting parts of the project was the creation of the living fencing. We are using natural wooden beams that will eventually take root and become part of nature. This fence protects the reserve from cattle grazing, which used to destroy the vegetation and disturb the habitat for birds. Now the ecosystem can recover and the birds can live and breed safely.

Ecotourism – a new opportunity for local people. These conservation measures not only improve conditions for birds, but also create the basis for the development of ecotourism. We invite everyone who wants to see amazing bird species, enjoy nature and learn more about the unique ecosystem of Ak-Bulun at the Ornithology events @birds.kyrgyzstan
Ecotourism brings new jobs and support for local communities, helping them to develop their regions.

The project ‘Empowering Women in Kyrgyzstan through Ecotourism’ is implemented with the support of the Canadian Foundation for Local Initiatives (CFLI)