You will encounter great biodiversity while on the trail. In the forest it is not unusual to come across red deer, which inhabit the whole Caucasus Mountain region. For the lepidopterists among you, butterfly life is diverse and abundant. You will see birds of prey circling overhead, including the eastern imperial eagle. While on the trail keep a watchful eye out for the ‘gurza’ snake – a small black-grey viper that is poisonous, but will swiftly slither into the nearest bush when it detects approaching footsteps. Brown bears do inhabit higher forested regions, but very rarely encroach on the human population. Apart from that, you are likely to encounter herds of cows blocking the trail. The animals are extremely docile, do not be afraid to pass by them.
Edible Forest
They are often accompanied by elderberry bushes. These berries can be eaten raw but are usually cooked in a variety of sweet or savory dishes. They are used to make jams, jellies and syrups and are grown commercially for the juice market. The fruit is also used locally in the preparation of vodka and traditional medicines.
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In more wet pastures – namely on approach to Mount Khustup – you will see hogweed or cow parsnip plant, which is indigenous to the region. Be careful around this plant because it contains a toxic sap that can cause severe skin irritation or even burns when exposed to UV light. This plant can be eaten raw if the skin is removed (not advisable for non-exerts) and is also used as preserve.
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