Kızılırmak Delta Bird Sanctuary

The Kızılırmak Delta is a wetland located within the boundaries of Samsun province in Türkiye’s Black Sea Region, noted for its ecological richness. This region plays a vital role for both local ecosystems and migratory birds, and is of significant importance in terms of biological diversity. In addition to performing essential ecosystem functions, the Kızılırmak Delta serves as a refuge for many endangered species.

^{Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (Samsun Governorate, )}

The Kızılırmak Delta is situated along Türkiye’s Black Sea coast within the boundaries of Samsun province. The delta covers an area of 56,000 hectares and lies between the districts of Bafra and Alaçam. This area has an average elevation of five meters above sea level. Geologically, the Kızılırmak Delta is a young structure formed by the accumulation of alluvial sediments carried by the Kızılırmak River as they are deposited into the Black Sea. These alluvial deposits create diverse habitats within the delta ecosystem and provide a suitable environment for the region’s biological diversity.

^{Birds living within the ecosystem of Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (}19 Mayıs Municipality⁾

The Kızılırmak Delta spans an area of 236.86 km² and contains numerous lakes of varying sizes to the east and west of the Kızılırmak River. Among these lakes, to the east are Balık Lake, Uzun Lake, Tatlı Lake, Gıcı Lake, Cernek Lake and Liman Lake; to the west is Karaboğaz Lake. The delta holds critical importance for bird species that fly directly over the Black Sea.

^{Living organisms in Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (}19 Mayıs Municipality⁾

The Kızılırmak Delta hosts a variety of distinct ecosystems, including beaches, dunes, reedbeds, marshes and water forest stands (gallery forests). This habitat diversity enables high biological diversity in both flora and fauna. Particularly, gallery forests—tree-covered areas along water edges 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 erosion control. In addition, the delta’s vegetation cover influences the local microclimate and contributes to the preservation of environmental balance.

^{Living organisms in Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise}

The Kızılırmak Delta is an area of exceptional biological richness. It provides habitat for 577 plant species, including rare and endangered ones. For example, endemic plant species such as serrated rhaponticum (Rhaponticum serratuloides) and sea daffodil (Pancratium maritimum) play a crucial role in preserving the region’s ecosystems.

^{A bird living within the ecosystem of Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (}19 Mayıs Municipality

The Bird Paradise hosts 66 fish species and 362 bird species. Of the 24 endangered bird species, 15 reside permanently within the delta. The Kızılırmak Delta is a critical stopover for migratory birds and provides habitat for flamingos, pelicans, sea eagles, crested pelican, black stork and other waterbirds, as well as various songbirds.

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. Additionally, on 21 April 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.

^{Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (}19 Mayıs Municipality⁾

The Kızılırmak Delta holds various protection statuses in recognition of its environmental value. It has been officially designated as a natural sit area and is protected under first, second and third-degree conservation categories. 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.

^{An image representing the natural environment of Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise (}19 Mayıs Municipality

The management of the Kızılırmak Delta is carried out by the Ministry of Forest and Water Affairs, the Ministry of Environment and Urbanization, the Samsun Provincial Directorate of Environment and Urbanization, and local administrations. In 2015, through a protocol, management of the Kızılırmak Delta was transferred to the Samsun Kızılırmak Delta Protection and Development Union (SAMKUŞ). SAMKUŞ conducts various initiatives aimed at conserving the delta ecosystem, monitoring the region’s biological diversity and raising public awareness.

^{Storks living in the Bird Paradise}(Samsun Metropolitan Municipality)

The Kızılırmak Delta offers numerous activities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can participate in birdwatching, photography, fishing, trekking, camping, cycling and canoeing. Early morning hours, when bird activity is most intense, provide optimal opportunities for observation. The delta features visitor centers, birdwatching towers and viewing platforms to promote ecological awareness.

^{Kızılırmak Delta Bird Paradise}

With its rich biodiversity, essential ecosystem functions and protected status, the Kızılırmak Delta is one of Türkiye’s most valuable wetlands. By serving as a transitional zone between diverse habitats, it provides critical living areas for endemic species and migratory birds. The conservation and sustainable management of this area not only safeguard biodiversity but also generate significant environmental benefits and advantages for the local population.