AM016
Gorayk


Country/territory: Armenia

IBA criteria met: A1, B2 (2002)
For more information about IBA criteria, please click here

Area: 5,923 hectares (59.23 km2)

Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife and Cultural Assets
IBA conservation status
Year of assessment (most recent) State (condition) Pressure (threat) Response (action)
2006 poor high medium
For more information about IBA monitoring, please click here


Site description (2007 baseline)
Gorayk IBA is located in the south of Armenia in Syunik Province. It occupies Syunik plateau and includes part of Spandarian reservoir built on Vorotan River. The area is predominantly agricultural with livestock grazing and pasture use making the basis of most agricultural activity.

Key biodiversity
At present, it is the only IBA known to support a small breeding colony of Globally Threatened Lesser Kestrel in Armenia. However, it is also noted for the presence of orher IUCN listed species, Cinereous Vulture, Corncrake, Roller – many of national or international conservation importance.

Non-bird biodiversity: Gorayk IBA forms part of the Caucasus Hotspot. Ecosystems here provide key habitats for animal species such as wolf, fox, stone marten, badger and hare. Some species of amphibians, reptiles and rodents also inhabit the area.


Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Gorayk (Armenia). Downloaded from https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/gorayk-iba-armenia on 25/12/2024.