İğneada Mangrove Forests

In the northwestern region of Türkiye, within the boundaries of the Demirköy district of Kırklareli Province, the İğneada Longoz Forests stand out as one of the rare ecosystems in Europe and Türkiye, characterized by subasar (longoz) forests. This unique area, located along the Black Sea coast, is a natural treasure noted for its biological diversity and hydrological regime, encompassing a variety of habitats including sea, lake, stream, swamp, wetland and forest.

The İğneada Longoz Forests are situated near Türkiye’s northwestern border, close to Bulgaria. The area covers approximately 3,155 hectares and is located near the village of İğneada, which belongs to the Demirköy district of Kırklareli. This region hosts the largest protected subasar forest area in Türkiye. The forests are predominantly composed of oak, hornbeam, alder and black poplar species.

^{A View of the Longoz Forests (}İğneada Municipality⁾

The İğneada Longoz Forests provide habitat for numerous endemic and endangered species. Over 500 plant species and more than 200 bird species have been recorded in the region. The area is also rich in mammals, reptiles, amphibians and fish species. Thanks to its longoz structure, the forests offer temporary shelter to a variety of migratory birds throughout the year.

The İğneada Longoz Forests feature a complex hydrological system composed of interconnected lakes and streams. The main lakes within the area include Mert Lake, Saka Lake, Hamam Lake, Pedina Lake and Erikli Lake. These lakes are essential for maintaining the long-term subasar characteristics of the forest. Mert Lake, in particular, stands out due to its size and the rich flora and fauna surrounding it.

^{A Forest Amidst the Waters (}İğneada Municipality⁾

In 2007, the İğneada Longoz Forests were designated as the İğneada Longoz Forests National Park. This status aims to protect the region’s natural heritage and ensure its sustainable use. Under this designation, the area is managed and protected by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry.

In recent years, the İğneada Longoz Forests have been opened to controlled ecotourism activities. Nature walks, birdwatching, botanical tours and photography have increased interest in the region. However, visitor restrictions and environmental monitoring are implemented to minimize the ecological impact of these activities.