One of the four highest peaks of the Great Caucasus in Azerbaijan. Habitats include ravines, subalpine meadows, rock, mountain forests (on south-western slopes only). There are some abandoned orchards on the southern slopes. Part of the area is leased by the Hunters' Society of Azerbaijan.
Key biodiversity
The subalpine and alpine zones support at least two of the 10 species in Europe that are restricted (when breeding) to the Eurasian high-montane biome. Breeding species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aegypius monachus (3-4 pairs). Significant proportion (³1%) of national population breeding at site: Gypaetus barbatus (1+ pair), Neophron percnopterus (4-5 pairs), Gyps fulvus (8-10 pairs) and Bubo bubo (2+ pairs).
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
Subalpine meadows are damaged by intensive grazing and poaching is a further threat. There is a hunting lodge near the mountain.
Protected areas
National Partial International NoneIBA partly covered by Game Reserve (Ismailly).
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2023) Important Bird Areas factsheet: Mount Babadag. Downloaded from
http://www.birdlife.org on 21/03/2023.
