Robat-e Shur Wildlife Refuge

Robat-e Shur Wildlife Refuge is one of the most valuable protected areas in South Khorasan Province, located in Ferdows County. It is protected to preserve the biodiversity and natural ecosystems of Iran's wildlife. The refuge lies along the Ferdows–Boshruyeh road, close to the point where it meets the Kalavgi River, and forms part of the province's network of protected areas. Its unique position on the border between desert and semi-desert makes it a suitable habitat for a wide variety of animal and plant species.

The refuge is home to many animal species and to vegetation adapted to dry, water-scarce conditions. One of them is the sand fox, a rare and characteristic species of the area that has been observed and recorded by local rangers. With its distinctive ears and paws, this fox is well adapted to life in the sand and heat of the desert. One of the most striking features of Robat-e Shur Wildlife Refuge is its exceptional diversity of reptiles, so much so that the area is called the province's "living reptile museum." Species such as tortoises, desert monitor lizards, agamas and many kinds of snakes and lizards can be seen in different parts of the refuge. Besides constant monitoring, the rangers work to protect wildlife populations and to prevent illegal hunting and human-wildlife conflict. With such unique species and a diverse ecosystem, Robat-e Shur has become a valuable destination for responsible nature tourism.

To reach Robat-e Shur Wildlife Refuge, you usually leave the city of Ferdows and take the road towards Boshruyeh; after a few kilometres you will reach the designated entrances to the area. The best times to visit are spring and autumn, when temperatures are milder and conditions are good for nature tourism; summers bring intense desert heat, while winters are notably cold. Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, avoid making noise or disturbing the silence and calm of the ecosystem, and take their rubbish with them so that wildlife can remain in its natural state.