Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise

The Kızılırmak Delta is a wetland located within the boundaries of Samsun province in Türkiye, covering an area of place and renowned for its ecological richness. This region, significant in terms of important, plays a vital role for both local ecosystems and migrant bird species. In addition to performing ecosystem functions, the Kızılırmak Delta serves as a refuge for many endangered species.

Geological Formation

The Kızılırmak Delta is situated along Türkiye’s Black Sea coast within the boundaries of Samsun province. It spans an area of 56,000 hectares and lies between the districts of Bafra and Alaçam. The elevation of this area averages five meters above sea level. Geologically, the Kızılırmak Delta is a young formation created by the accumulation of alluvial sediments carried by the Kızılırmak River as they are deposited into the Black Sea. These alluvial deposits form diverse habitats within the delta ecosystem and provide suitable conditions for the region’s biological diversity.

The Kızılırmak Delta covers an area of 236.86 km² and contains numerous lakes to the east and west of the Kızılırmak River. Among these lakes are Balık Gölü and Long Göl to the east, Sweet Göl, Gıcı Gölü, Cernek Gölü and Liman Gölü, and Karaboğaz Göl to the west. The delta provides a critical corridor for bird species migrating directly across the Black Sea.

Ecological Features and Habitat Diversity

The Kızılırmak Delta hosts a variety of distinct ecosystems including beaches, dunes, reedbeds, marshes and water success gallery forests. This habitat diversity supports high biological richness in both flora and fauna. Particularly, gallery forests—tree-lined areas along watercourses that are periodically flooded—are fundamental components of the delta ecosystem. These habitats provide essential ecosystem services such as water filtration, maintenance of groundwater levels and flood control. Additionally, the delta’s vegetation cover influences the local microclimate and contributes to environmental balance.

Biodiversity

The Kızılırmak Delta is one of Türkiye’s most biologically rich areas. The region is home to 577 plant species, including rare and endangered ones. For instance, endemic plant species such as the serrated rhaponticum (Rhaponticum serratuloides) and the sea daffodil (Pancratium maritimum) play a crucial role in preserving the integrity of the local ecosystems.

The Bird Paradise hosts 66 fish species and 362 bird species. Of the 24 endangered bird species, 15 are resident within the delta. The Kızılırmak Delta is a vital migratory corridor for birds and shelters flamingos, pelicans, sea eagles, hill pelican, black storks and other waterbirds as well as numerous passerines.

The delta supports a rich ecosystem comprising 2,177 species including 32 mammal species, 23 reptile and amphibian species, 549 invertebrate species and 510 phytoplankton species. Furthermore, on 21 June 2020, by presidential decree, the Kızılırmak Delta was granted the status of a strictly protected area and is Türkiye’s first and only UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site Nominee.

Protection Status and Management Structure

The Kızılırmak Delta holds multiple protection statuses in accordance with its environmental values. It has been officially registered as a natural area and is under first, second and third-degree protection. The area is also designated as a Wildlife Development Area and a Ramsar Site. In 2016, the delta was included on UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites.

The management of the Kızılırmak Delta is carried out by the Ministry of Environment Urbanization and Climate Change, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the Samsun Provincial Directorate of Environment and Urbanization, and local administrations. In 2015, a protocol transferred the management of the Kızılırmak Delta to the Samsun Kızılırmak Delta Protection and Development Union (SAMKUŞ). SAMKUŞ conducts various initiatives aimed at conserving the delta ecosystem, monitoring regional biodiversity and raising public awareness.

Visitor Services

The Kızılırmak Delta offers numerous activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can participate in birdwatching, photography, fishing, trekking, camping, bicycle and canoe. Early morning visits offer the best opportunities for observing birds at their most active times. The delta provides visitor centers, birdwatching towers and viewing platforms to support ecological tourism.

The Kızılırmak Delta is one of Türkiye’s most valuable wetlands due to its biological diversity, ecosystem functions and protection status. It serves as a transitional zone between diverse habitats and provides critical living areas for migratory birds. The conservation and sustainable management of its ecosystems not only safeguard biodiversity but also generate significant benefits for environmental services and local people.