Yaniq Wetland

Yaniq Wetland is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Hashtrud County, East Azerbaijan Province. It lies about 35 kilometres southwest of Hashtrud, beside the paved Hashtrud–Maragheh road. The wetland consists of two separate parts, Greater Yaniq and Lesser Yaniq, which are roughly 1.5 kilometres apart.

The smaller wetland covers about one hectare and serves as a natural reservoir for irrigation, while the larger part covers about four hectares and extends alongside rolling hills. The depth of both parts exceeds 2 metres at the centre. The wetland's catchment area consists of farmland and pastures, and the surroundings feature reeds, sedges, steppe and semi-steppe rangeland plants, and willow trees. The reed beds around the wetland are a good habitat for aquatic and shore birds, especially the white-headed duck, and this wetland is considered one of its breeding grounds in Iran. In winter, parts of the wetland freeze, and migratory birds return in spring once the cold has ended.

The best route to Yaniq Wetland is the Hashtrud–Maragheh road; the wetland lies right beside this paved route. If you set out from Hashtrud, you will reach the wetland area after about 35 kilometres. The best time to visit is spring and early summer, when the wetland is full of water, the reed beds have grown and migratory birds are present; the cool air and lush scenery make for a pleasant experience. When visiting Yaniq Wetland responsibly, you should stay on designated paths, avoid damaging the vegetation and reed beds, preserve the peace of the environment for the birds, and refrain from leaving litter or causing pollution. In winter, because the wetland freezes, entering the water can also be dangerous.