Kolguev

Kolguev

 

an island in the southeastern part of the Barents Sea, 75 km from the Soviet mainland, part of the Nenets NO, Arkhangel’sk Oblast, RSFSR. Area, 3,200 sq km. The terrain, at an elevation of 70–80 m, is extremely hilly, with morainic hills. The southern part of the island is a flat plain. There are many lakes and swamps. The coastlines, which are slightly jagged, are steep and high in the northwest. The island is composed of sandstone and clay deposits and has tundra vegetation. Mammals found there include the arctic fox; other foxes are also encountered. Many birds, primarily waterfowl, nest there in summer. Reindeer-breeding, fishing, and hunting have been developed. The populated area of Bugrino is on Kolguev Island.