Lake Erçek

Erçek Gölü is one of the closed-basin lakes located east of Lake Van, approximately 30 kilometers from the center of Van. The lake lies at an elevation of 1,803 meters above sea level and has a total surface area of 22,263 hectares. Geomorphologically classified as a dam lake, Erçek Gölü is one of the main wetlands within the Van Gölü Basin.

The lake waters are saline and sodic, distinguishing them from freshwater ecosystems. The deepest point of the lake is 40 meters, with an average depth of 18.45 meters. Climatic conditions and evaporation rates in the region cause fluctuations in the lake’s annual water level.

Erçek Gölü (AA)

Geological and Hydrological Characteristics

The lake’s geological structure has been shaped by the influence of fault lines and volcanic deposits in the region. This area, situated east of Van Gölü, has undergone uplift and subsidence processes due to past geodynamic activity, resulting in the formation of the lake basin. The surrounding terrain is predominantly composed of basaltic rocks and tuffs. Due to the limited permeability of these rock types, the lake is primarily fed by surface runoff and seasonal precipitation.

The hydrological system of Erçek Gölü depends on the balance between precipitation, snowmelt, evaporation, and groundwater movement. As a closed basin, water input is derived solely from snow and rainwater, while output occurs entirely through evaporation. Consequently, the lake’s water level is highly sensitive to seasonal variations and long-term climatic fluctuations. Particularly during summer months, rising temperatures and increased evaporation rates lead to a reduction in the lake’s surface area.

According to satellite observations and field data, Erçek Gölü has experienced a significant reduction in surface area over the past thirty years. Data from the Landsat satellite indicate that the lake’s surface area, which was 111 square kilometers in 1995, had decreased to 105 square kilometers by 2025. The primary causes of this change are prolonged drought periods, reduced precipitation, and increased evaporation.

As a result of this process, pronounced shoreline retreat has occurred, leading to the emergence of new barren areas. These changes along the shoreline have affected not only water levels but also the surrounding vegetation and wildlife habitats. Evaporation remains the dominant mechanism of water loss in the lake’s hydrological cycle, contributing to long-term ecological transformations.

Ecosystem and Biological Diversity

Erçek Gölü is one of the ecologically significant wetlands in Eastern Anatolia, providing habitat for a variety of species. The lake’s ecosystem represents one of the areas where terrestrial and aquatic life forms coexist. Ecological inventory studies have identified three amphibian species, nine reptile species, and nine mammal species in the lake’s vicinity. Some of these species are classified as vulnerable (VU), others as near threatened (NT), and some as endangered (EN). One of the endangered species is the White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala), which is globally threatened with extinction.

White-headed Duck (AA)

Bird Sanctuary

Erçek Gölü is known as a “Bird Sanctuary” due to its role as a habitat for migration, feeding, and breeding for both migratory and resident bird species. Approximately half of the 453 bird species recorded in Türkiye have been observed in the Erçek Gölü Basin. The lake provides habitat for species such as the Osprey, Greater Flamingo, Black-necked Grebe, Avocet, Common Teal, Van Sea Gull, and Flamingo. The use of the lake by flamingos during migration periods highlights its ecological importance. The shallow coastal zones of the lake offer suitable conditions for bird nesting and rearing.

From early June to late September, the number of migratory birds increases significantly. During this period, large numbers of waterfowl and flamingo flocks are observed at the lake. Due to these characteristics, the lake is also referred to as the “Erçek Gölü Bird Sanctuary.”

Flamingos at Erçek Gölü (Van Governorate)

Erçek Gölü Pearl Carp Population

Due to conservation and monitoring efforts led by the Van Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry, the pearl carp population in Erçek Gölü has increased in recent years. This increase is linked to implemented fishing bans and sustainable fishing practices.

Fishing activities conducted under the control of the S.S. Erçek Mahallesi Aquatic Products Cooperative have resulted in noticeable growth in the size and weight of the fish. The average length of pearl carp, which was 16–17 cm in previous years, has increased to 24–25 cm following conservation measures. A fishing ban is enforced between 15 April and 15 July, the species’ spawning period, during which monitoring activities are carried out.

These conservation measures contribute to maintaining the ecological balance of the lake and support the economic sustainability of local communities dependent on fishing.

Pearl Carp at Erçek Gölü (Van Provincial Directorate of Agriculture and Forestry)

Drought and Land Loss

Over the past thirty years, a significant decline in water level has been observed at Erçek Gölü. The surface area, which was 111 square kilometers in 1995, has decreased to 105 square kilometers as of 2025. The prolongation of drought periods, reduced precipitation, and increased evaporation have accelerated this change. Shoreline retreats have extended for hundreds of meters, with some areas transforming into barren land. This has reduced the available habitat for birds’ living and breeding.

Impacts of Climate Change

Global climate change directly affects water resources in the Van Gölü Basin. Rising temperatures, decreasing precipitation, and prolonged droughts are lowering the water level of Erçek Gölü. According to assessments by Yüzüncü Yıl University in Van, the maximum water levels previously observed by the end of June are now receding as early as mid-May. The extension of drought periods increases evaporation and contributes to the lake’s area loss.

Protection Status and Registration Information

Erçek Gölü has been registered on 9 April 2020 under Ministry Decree No. 85288 as a “Natural Site – Qualified Natural Conservation Area” and a “Natural Site – Sustainable Conservation and Controlled Use Area.” It also holds the status of a “strictly protected sensitive area.” This registration aims to preserve the lake’s natural structure and ecological values and to implement principles of sustainable use.

Management and Rehabilitation Efforts

A management plan has been developed for Erçek Gölü under the project “Conservation and Rehabilitation of Wetlands.” The initial plan was completed in 2017, and in 2023, the project “Revised Management Plan for Erçek Gölü Wetland and Mathematical Modeling of the Hydrogeological Structure” was launched. Thirty percent of the project was completed in 2023, with completion planned for 2024.

Erçek Gölü (AA)

Birdwatching and Ecotourism Activities

Due to its location within the Van Gölü Basin and ease of access, Erçek Gölü is one of the most intensively used areas in Türkiye for birdwatching activities. The lake hosts species such as the Osprey, Avocet, Black-necked Grebe, Greater Flamingo, Common Teal, and Van Sea Gull, particularly during migration periods.

Observation points around the lake are important for monitoring and recording bird behavior. These areas contribute to scientific research and the development of nature-based tourism.

Ecological Importance of Erçek Gölü within the Van Gölü Basin

Erçek Gölü holds a prominent position within the ecological integrity of the Van Gölü Basin. Approximately one-third of Türkiye’s wetlands are located within this basin, and the lake is recognized as a key area for biodiversity and waterfowl. Alongside Van Gölü, it contributes to the region’s hydrological balance and plays a vital role in the life cycles of migratory birds and endemic species.