Petroglyph of a deer in the Uch-Enmek Ethnic Nature Park. This rock carving has been dated to 800 BC
(Photo: Maurice Maxwell)

The Siberian Taiga is the largest forest on earth, and makes up 27% of the World's total forested land. Many species found here are also found in Ireland, especially the two most common species, silver birch and Scots pine.

The Altai Mountains lie on the borders of Siberia, Tibet and Mongolia. The people living in this region subsist almost entirely from their sheep for their food, clothing and even alcohol! Low rainfall and bitterly cold winters make this a harsh environment for people and wildlife.