Nature reserve

A nature reserve (preserve or (national/nature) conserve) is a protected area. It protects wildlife, flora (plants) and fauna (animals).^[1] Reserves may also protect geological features or other special interests. A nature reserve is land that is kept for conservation and to provide special opportunities for study or research.

Nature reserves can be created by government institutions. They can also be created by private landowners, such as charities and research institutions, regardless of nationality. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is an organization that helps countries and others with conservation programs and management.^[2]