Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve
UNESCO World Heritage Site and Landscape of the Year 2007-2009
Sep 8, 2008
The Danube, Europe's second longest river after the Volga, rises in the Black Forest Mountains of Germany, travels almost 3,000 km and gathers water from approximately 120 tributaries. It flows through ten countries and crosses four capital cities before emptying into the Black Sea. Approximately 80 km before reaching the sea the river divides into three main channels, the Sfântu Gheorghe, the Chilia and the Sulina.
How Did the Danube Delta Develop?
As it flows, the Danube carries with it tons of sediment which are repelled by the waves of the Black Sea and subsequently deposited at the mouth of the river. The resulting estuary consists of a combination of man-made and natural ecosystems, fresh water and sea water pools and lakes, both stagnant and running river channels, vast reed beds and marshlands, floating reed islets, massive lily beds, sand dunes and sand banks. In terms of age the delta is probably Europe's youngest land having developed over barely 16,000 years. Covering an area of approximately 4,000 sq. km, the delta is constantly growing as new silt is deposited at its mouth.
Pelicans, White-Tailed Eagles, Cormorants and Egrets Can be Observed
The region has become a place of outstanding natural beauty: a watery sanctuary for hundreds of rare birds, fish and animals. There are at least 90 species of fish including pike, carp, bream and sturgeon, famous for its black caviar. As well as being home to thousands of rare and unusual birds, the delta is visited by migrating birds from all over the planet. During the changing seasons well over 250 species might be seen including globally threatened species such as Dalmatian and crested pelicans, white-tailed eagles, little and great egrets, cormorants and dwarf cormorants, night herons, red-necked geese and the brightly coloured roller, to name but a few.
There are some 300 designated nature reserves on the planet and the Danube Delta falls in third place in terms of ecological importance. The delta is a unique ecosystem due to its wide biodiversity, renewable natural resources, cultural heritage and beautiful scenery. Nature's own museum is a natural scientific laboratory where birdwatchers can experience sightings of rare birds and scientists can study the wildlife of the region and raise awareness of its incalculable biodiversity.
The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority
The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve Authority (DDBRA), established in 1990, is responsible for educating and advising local people, visitors to the region and any person or group with an interest in nature conservation. Local people are being trained as guides to help tourists understand and appreciate this outstanding landscape. Education is essential as without it the delta could easily be overwhelmed by the destructive activities of man.
Responsible Tourism and the Delta
It's not only wildlife who seek out the sanctuary of the delta. Approximately 100,000 visitors per annum, birdwatchers, nature lovers and fishermen come to explore the area. The region does have its problems and the danger is that too many visitors could damage the delta. But without visitors and the income they generate, the region cannot be developed. Finance is needed to improve infrastructure and railways, and whilst tourism must increase, it has to be on a sound ecological and sustainable basis.
A visit to the delta will provide the ultimate birdwatching holiday and the DDBRA recommend several good tour operators who will give sound advice and make all necessary arrangements.
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