The Chefandzar Bog is located in the highlands of North Ossetia, in the upper reaches of the Urukh River, within the Irafsky District. Positioned at around 2,400 meters above sea level, it stretches approximately three kilometers in length and up to one and a half kilometers in width. Originally, this area was occupied by a moraine lake formed by melting glaciers. Over time, the lake became overgrown, giving rise to a sphagnum bog.
Chefandzar is characterized by active peat accumulation, with layers reaching up to three meters deep. It is considered a relatively young formation, having developed after the retreat of glaciers in this part of the Caucasus.
The bog holds significant value for botanists and researchers. It is home to several rare species of sphagnum moss — at least seven have been recorded — highlighting its importance as a unique natural habitat in the North Caucasus. Chefandzar provides insight into the ecological processes of mountain wetlands and contributes to the preservation of the region’s biodiversity.