Southern Nivkh is a language spoken by the Nivkh people, primarily located in the southern part of the Sakhalin Island in Russia. It belongs to the Nivkh language family, which is unique and not closely related to other languages. The Southern Nivkh dialect is one of two main dialects, the other being Northern Nivkh. The Nivkh people have a rich cultural heritage, traditionally relying on fishing, hunting, and gathering. Their language reflects their environment and lifestyle, with many words related to nature and local wildlife. Efforts are ongoing to preserve the Southern Nivkh language and culture amid modernization and declining speakers.