From May 30 to June 30, helicopter tours in the Uzon-Geysernaya area of the Kronotsky Nature Reserve will be significantly reduced, the reserve’s press service announced.

This annual conservation measure aims to minimize disturbance to wildlife during a critical period—mating and breeding season.

During the "Silence Month", tour permits will be issued on the day of visit (before 11:00 AM), depending on current conditions—particularly bear activity. Priority will be given to tour groups using low-noise helicopters (Robinson, Eurocopter, Bell, Mi-2).

Restrictions include:

• No sightseeing flights over the Geysernaya River canyon (except emergencies).

• No multi-day tours in the valley.

In June, the Valley of Geysers sees:

• Bears in mating season (males competing for females).

• Birds nesting, including near hiking trails.

• Snow sheep carrying offspring in mountainous areas.

Currently, nine bears have been spotted in the Geysernaya River valley, including two two-year-old cubs recently separated from their mother. According to Vladimir Vlasenko, a ranger at the Kronotsky Reserve, the courtship period has begun—females display playful behavior, while males compete for their attention.

(Photo by Vladimir Vlasenko)