Wetlands of International Importance: Turkey, Gediz Delta

Gediz Delta. 15/04/98; Izmir Gulf; 14,900 ha; 38º30’N 026º55’E. Cultural and Natural Asset; Wildlife Protection Area. An extensive coastal wetland with bays, salt and freshwater marshes, large saltpans, and four highly saline lagoons located at the mouth of the Gediz River. The site supports dry grasslands, arable land, and some woodlands. The globally threatened pelican Pelecanus crispus breeds at the site. An important area for breeding, feeding, wintering, and sheltering internationally important numbers of numerous species of waterbirds. Human activities include fishing, agriculture, and cattle grazing. The Gediz River is of vital importance for agriculture in the region. Ramsar site no. 945.

During the 5th meeting of the Mediterranean Wetlands Committee in 2003, the participants made a study tour to the Gediz Delta.

The Gediz Delta, Izmir Bay, Turkey

Gediz inner marsh

Abdullah hill

Homa lagoon (left); Kirdeniz lagoon

-- photos by Tobias Salathé, Ramsar.