Current view: Text account
Site description (2017 baseline):
Site location and context
Several offshore islands near Sir Bani Yas.
The islands are important for breeding Socotra Cormorant and Osprey in winter and for White-cheeked Terns, Bridled Terns and Lesser Crested Terns that breed in summer.
Other biodiversity: Occasional Hawsksbill Turtle and Dolphins and Dugongs.
Typical desert in terms of vegetation characteristics.
Pressure/threats to key biodiversity
On Ghasha there is very high disturbance to birds from people visiting for recreational activities like camping, particularly in winter, and egg collection for White-cheeked Tern in summer. Invasive house mouse also poses a threat.
Conservation responses/actions for key biodiversity
Part of the desert islands setup by TDIC- Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority.
None.
Data-sheet compiled by Shahid Bashir Khan, Dr Salim Javed, Shakeel Ahmed (EAD).
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Important Bird Area factsheet: Sir Bani Yas Islands (United Arab Emirates). Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/site/factsheet/sir-bani-yas-islands-iba-united-arab-emirates on 23/11/2024.
