Tengiz facts for kids
Tengiz is a very large and important lake located in the country of Kazakhstan. It's so big that it covers a huge area of land. This lake is special because it's a salt lake, meaning its water is very salty, much like the ocean.
Discovering Lake Tengiz
Lake Tengiz is found in the central part of Kazakhstan, a country in Central Asia. It's located in the Kostanay Region, not far from the border with Russia.
Location and Size
Imagine a lake that stretches out for about 1,950 square kilometers! That's how big Lake Tengiz is. To give you an idea, that's larger than many big cities. Because of its size, it's one of the most important lakes in Kazakhstan.
A Salty Home for Birds
What makes Lake Tengiz truly unique is its water. It's a salt lake, which means it has a very high salt content. This salty environment creates a special home for many types of plants and animals.
The lake is especially famous for the amazing birds that live there or visit during their long journeys. It's a vital stop for migratory birds, which are birds that travel thousands of kilometers each year between their breeding and wintering grounds.
- One of the most beautiful birds you might see there is the Greater Flamingo. These birds are known for their bright pink feathers. They love the salty water because it helps them find the tiny organisms they eat.
- Many other bird species, like pelicans, gulls, and various types of ducks, also depend on Lake Tengiz for food and a safe place to rest.
Protecting Lake Tengiz
Because Lake Tengiz is so important for birds and other wildlife, it is part of a protected area. This area is called the Korgalzhyn State Nature Reserve. A nature reserve is a special place where the land and its animals are kept safe from harm.
The Korgalzhyn Reserve helps protect the lake's unique environment. It ensures that the birds have a safe place to live and that the lake's ecosystem stays healthy. This protection is very important for keeping these amazing birds and their habitats safe for the future.
