Site description (baseline)
The site is a former marine inlet now separated from the sea by a narrow sand-spit. The lake is predominantly freshwater with a maximum depth of 18 m. The western shore is formed by a steep limestone promontory, and narrow reedbeds (Phragmites) occur. In winter up to 90% of the lake area may freeze.
Key biodiversity
This is an important site for passage waterbirds, particularly Anatidae and Laridae; the surrounds are a stop-over site for migrating passerines. Species of global conservation concern that do not meet IBA criteria: Aythya nyroca (2-40 passage birds).
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2023) Important Bird Area factsheet: Lake Siutghiol. Downloaded from
http://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/446 on 04/06/2023.