IRREPLACEABLE
IRREPLACEABLE
Gediz Delta
Turkey
Magical things happen when opposites meet. Where the land
joins the sea, where freshwater flows into saltwater – unique
habitats are never far away. And Gediz Delta in Turkey is no
exception. Dotted with grass-tufted islands and remarkable
salt-frosted lagoons, this wetland supports a wealth of
waterbirds. The Red-breasted Goose Branta ruficollis
(Vulnerable) finds refuge here, as does the Dalmatian Pelican
Pelenacus crispus (Near Threatened), for whom the delta
acts as a key breeding site. And it’s not just birds that benefit
from this bounty. The Mediterranean Monk Seal Monachus
monachus (Endangered) and Loggerhead Sea Turtle Caretta
caretta (Vulnerable) both rely on its rich pickings.
Every winter, the delta turns pink with an influx of Greater
Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus – regularly housing up to a
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birdlife • apr-jun 2018