February has begun, and on its second day, we celebrated World Wetlands Day..
What is it?
A wetland, in terms of soil science, or a hydrobiotope, in terms of biology, is a place where shallow waters either persistently or periodically accumulate. Naturally, this place may not always be covered by water, but its soil remains moist for a significant period.
In Halkidiki, in the northeastern part of the Kassandra peninsula, lies the lagoon of Agios Mamas, a wetland that has been included in the NATURA 2000 network as some protected species live and reproduce there.
Pancratium maritimum
The significance of the wetland of Agios Mamas is paramount as it serves as a refuge for many birds, more than 160 species, that nest and reproduce there.
Some indicative species that can be mentioned:
- The pied avocet
- Tadorna tadorna
- Flamingo
- and of course, the species that led to the designation of the area as Natura, which are the Black-winged stilt, the collared pranticole, and the slender-billed curlew.
The problem in the area primarily arises during the summer months.
While construction is legally prohibited in the area, there are beach bars that, through their activities, alter the natural landscape, creating pathways for access through the sand dunes, parking areas for cars, noise pollution, and leave behind a large volume of garbage.
Moreover, many tourists arrive in the area by car and disturb the tranquility of the wetland. As a result the avian residents are getting scared and drive away. Additionally, many careless visitors trample on the nests of birds that are built in the sand.
The organization Greek Eco Project, aiming to contribute to this important issue, has organized in the past clean-up activities for the wetland of Agios Mamas and is preparing new ones soon.
To stay informed about our organization's activities, you can follow us on social media, as well as make a donation or become an active member of our team by registering at the following link.
https://greekecoproject.gr/donation/
Writer: Stathis Pavlidis
