Current view: Text account
Site description (2007 baseline):
Site location and context
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.
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.
Conservation responses/actions for key biodiversity
Development of the IBA Caretaker Network in the Caucasus
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.
