Amvrakikos Gulf – Biodiversity and Threats

The Amvrakikos Gulf is the largest Greek wetland, hosting ~16% of the total wintering populations of waterbirds in Greece and one of the most important colonies of the Dalmatian pelican. Its wetland complex is one of the most important wetlands in southern Europe and hosts numbers of birds that are important for their conservation at an international level. It is part of the NATURA 2000 network as a Special Protection Area for thirty-four bird species, while the Amvrakikos dolphins form a distinct subpopulation isolated from the rest of the Mediterranean.

In 2006, the Gulf was designated a Site of Community Importance, and in 2011, the lagoons were designated a Special Protection Area for Birds. In addition, the Gulf has been designated an Important Bird and Marine Mammal Area, and more recently an Important Area for Sharks and Rays.

The protection of Amvrakikos from anthropogenic pressures is necessary for the conservation of rare species and the natural wealth of the country.