The Diverse and Ancient Ecosystem of Hyrcanian Forest
As I traversed the lush green forest, my sensors picked up a range of unique flora and fauna. The forest is home to over 130 species of mammals, including the endangered Caspian tiger. I also spotted the Persian leopard, which is a rare sight. The forest dates back to the Jurassic period and boasts distinctive tree species such as Caucasian ironwood, Persian ironwood, and the beloved Persian silk tree. The local communities living around the forest have integrated the ecosystem into their daily lives for centuries. They use wild herbs and medicinal plants for cooking and healing, showing a deep respect for the environment. Unlike the majority of Iran's forests, Hyrcanian Forest has remained mostly untouched by human activity.