“This winter we observed a flock of 410 Lesser White-fronted Goose Anser erythropus and considerable numbers of Eastern Imperial Eagle Aquila heliaca – both Vulnerable - in Kurdistan”, said Korsh Ararat – leader of Nature Iraq’s KBA surveys in northern Iraq.

The Mesopotamian Marshes in the south of Iraq are especially important for wintering waterbirds. “As one of the most important wetland complexes in the Middle East, if not the world, these marshes are essential for the conservation of many species of birds as well as other wildlife”, remarked Mudhafar Salim - leader of Nature Iraq’s KBA surveys in the marshes and birding section leader.

“We observed African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus and African Darter Anhinga rufa making the Mesopotamian Marshes one of the only known sites in the Middle East for these birds. In addition, we recorded over 5,000 Marbled Teal Marmaronetta angustirostris, 2,340 Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa and seven Greater Spotted Eagle Aquila clanga - all Globally Threatened or Near-Threatened species”, added Mudhafar Salim.

For centuries, the marsh region between the Euphrates and Tigris rivers was vital for food – mainly fish and rice - production until 90% of it was drained by Saddam Hussein’s regime; forcing the local Marsh Arabs to flee the area. “During this time average temperatures in the area rose five degrees Celsius”, noted Dr Alwash.

Since the collapse of the regime, rehabilitation of the marshes has begun. Water has started to return to the internationally important wetland, restoring a vital habitat that is critical for the survival of biodiversity in the region.