|
INTRODUCTION
Both the land area as well as the population of
Estonia is the least among the Baltic States. Independence came in 1918, after centuries of Danish, Swedish, German, and Russian rule. However USSR's forcible incorporation of the country in 1940, took away that Independence. Finally it regained its freedom in 1991, when the Soviet Union collapsed.
Location of Estonia
Estonia is a republic in northeastern Europe. It is bordered by the Gulf of Finland in the north, by Russia in the east, by Latvia in the south, and by the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Riga in the west. Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia together constitute the Baltic States.
|
Flora And Fauna of Estonia
Nearly 50% of Estonia is covered by forests. Pine, birch, aspen, and fir are the common trees found. Elk and deer are the common wildlife. Some species like the beaver, red deer, and willow grouse are protected due to their small numbers.
Physical Map of Estonia
Estonia consists mainly of low-lying plains, with some hills in the central and southern regions. Over 20 percent of the country's territory is covered by Wetlands and lakes and reservoirs cover another 5 percent. The Pärnu is the longest river and follows a southwesterly course into the Gulf of Riga at Pärnu Bay. The country has more than 1,500 islands. The coastline stretches across 1,393 km (866 mi).
Climate of Estonia
Cool summers and cold winters characterize Estonia's climate. Proximity to the Baltic Sea and the Gulfs of Riga and Finland, keeps the climate moderate in most parts though temperatures are more extreme in the interior. Temperatures range from 18°C (64°F) in summer to below freezing point in winter. Annual precipitation is moderate, ranging from 500 to 700 mm (19 to 27 in), and July and August are the wettest months. Rivers often flood due to a combination of rain and melting snow in the spring.
|
