Bolsherechye

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Bolsherechye (Russian: Большере́чье) is an urban-type settlement in Omsk Oblast, Russia, situated 150 km northeast of Omsk along the Irtysh River. Its population is 12,361 (2002 Census); 12,477 (1989 Census).

The Bolsheretsky fortress was founded on Irtysh as a barrier for defence from invasions in 1627. Bolsherechye is located about half-way between Omsk and Tara, and is a convenient stopping point for many automobile and river travelers, including those on package tours of the region.

Bolsherechye is best known for its zoo, opened in 1983. Bolsherechye Zoo is naturally stretched out through 19 hectars and is much more impressive than its hometown size suggests. The only resident zoo in the region, it has daringly but successfully withstood the political, financial, and climatic challenges. The zoo opens a seasonal branch exhibit in the otherwise dominant Omsk, which to this day has only a small zoological youth station.