Salahah Island


Site description (2017 baseline):

Site location and context
The site comprises one main island and three small rocky outcrops that are nearby. The islands lie near Mirfa and are near to the main island of Salaha.

Key biodiversity
Important island for breeding Socotra Cormorant, Osprey in winter and Bridled terns and White-cheeked Terns that breed in summer.

Other biodiversity: occasional Hawksbill Turtle; dolphins and Dugongs are seen near the island.


Habitat and land use
Typical desert in terms of vegetation characteristics.

Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
There is very high disturbance to birds from recreational visitors (living on the island), as well as egg collection for Socotra Cormorant and White-cheeked Tern.

Conservation responses/actions for key biodiversity
Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve.

Protected areas
Marawah Marine Biosphere Reserve.

Acknowledgements
Data-sheet compiled by: Shahid Bashir Khan, Dr Salim Javed, Shakeel Ahmed (EAD).


Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Salahah Island (United Arab Emirates). Downloaded from https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/salahah-island-iba-united-arab-emirates on 25/12/2024.