Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
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State Party | Senegal |
Type | Natural |
Criteria | vii, x |
Identification | #25 |
Regionb | Africa |
Inscription History |
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Formal Inscription: | 1981 5th Session |
In Danger | 1984-1988; 2000-2006 |
a Name as officially inscribed on the WH List |
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary | |
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IUCN Category II (National Park) | |
Location: | Senegal |
Coordinates: | |
Area: | 160 km² |
Established: | April 14, 1971 |
The Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary (French: Parc national des oiseaux du Djoudj) lies on the southeast bank of the River Senegal in Senegal, north east of St-Louis. It provides a range of wetland habitats which prove very popular with migrating birds, many of which have just crossed the Sahara. Of almost 400 species of birds, the most visible are pelicans and flamingos. Less conspicuous are the Aquatic Warblers migrating here from Europe; for these, the park is the single most important wintering site yet discovered [1]. A wide range of wildlife also inhabits the park, which is designated a World Heritage Site. The site was added to the list of World Heritage Sites in Danger in 2000 due to the introduction of the invasive giant salvinia plant, which threatens to choke out the park's native vegetation.