Thrace coastal region added to international network of important bird areas
The recognition follows a proposal submitted by the Hellenic Ornithological Society, the Greek partner of BirdLife International.
The newly recognized marine area in Thrace is among four new Greek regions added to the international IBA network. The designation highlights the ecological importance of these habitats, particularly as critical resting and feeding grounds for migratory birds traveling annually between Africa and Europe.
According to conservation experts, the Thrace marine zone serves as an essential feeding area for several seabird species, including the Yelkouan Shearwater, Scopoli’s Shearwater, European Shag, Little Gull, and Mediterranean Gull. The area also functions as a major migration corridor for birds traveling to and from the Meriç Delta during spring and autumn migration periods.
The four newly added Greek IBA regions are:
- Sapientza and Schiza Islands with Cape Akritas (GR205)
- Cape Malea (GR206)
- Florina Wet Meadows (GR207)
- Thrace Marine Area (GR254)
With these additions, Greece’s national network of Important Bird Areas now includes 212 protected regions covering approximately 44,570 square kilometers.
The Hellenic Ornithological Society stated that the new designations were based on updated scientific data collected through LIFE environmental projects, Green Fund-supported initiatives, and long-term volunteer bird monitoring programs conducted under international methodologies.
Environmental groups also emphasized that the IBA recognition represents a major step toward integrating these areas into the Natura 2000 framework as Special Protection Areas under the EU Birds Directive. Such a move would require the Greek state to implement formal conservation objectives and protection measures.
