Current view: Text account
Site description (2000 baseline):
Site location and context
A large, nutrient-poor stream- and spring-fed lake of tectonic origin (max. depth 13 m); the northern part is shallower than the southern part. The northern and eastern shores support fringing reedbeds (
Phragmites) and are bordered by arable land; elsewhere hills and mountains surround the lake. Lake water is used for irrigation and to provide drinking water for nearby towns.
The IBA is important for wintering waterbirds.
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
The lake's water-level has fallen over the last 25 years, possibly as a result of human intervention and reduced precipitation. Further irrigation and hydroelectric schemes do not appear feasible. Former areas of marsh and steppe have been drained and reclaimed. Additional threats include pollution caused by agricultural run-off and industrial discharge (leading to fish-kills), and the effects of introduced pike-perch
Stizostedion lucioperca on native fish stocks.
National High
International None47,250 ha of IBA covered by Drinking Water Reservoir (Eðirdir Gölü, 47,250 ha).
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Eğirdir Lake (Türkiye). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/eğirdir-lake-iba-türkiye on 22/11/2024.
