Gazelle : The Palestinian Biological Bulletin (ISSN 0178 – 6288) . Number 124, April 2015, pp. 22-39. | Page 13

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3. Wadi Gaza Estuary
The Wadi Gaza outlet is the sea beach in front of the Wadi Gaza Estuary; the
Wadi Gaza wetland is excluded in this study. We have started to observe the
aquatic birds in this area in November 2013; we recorded high numbers of
both the Little Egret and the Black-headed Gulls; the numbers are almost
similar; that could be due that these two bird species can inhabit the wetlands,
and can enjoy the two ecological systems. In winter 2014 it was also observed
that these birds were moving between the Gaza Sea and Wadi Gaza,
especially after the establishment of the new sewage ponds; these new ponds
may serve as a good habitat for aquatic birds especially the common ones like
the Black-headed Gull and the Little Egret. The sea area in front of Wadi Gaza
serves as a good place for feeding and breeding for aquatic birds, and this is
due to the high concentration of nutrients at the Estuary. During this study
and especially in October 2014, the Lesser Black-backed Gull was recorded in
small numbers, and it was the first time to record the Sanderling (Calidris alba).
Eight Sanderlings at the sea beach close to the Wadi Gaza Estuary were
observed. In conclusion it is noted that in the study area the Black-headed
Gulls and the Little Egret were the most abundant birds during winter.

Photo (17). The Sanderling (Calidris alba) at Wadi Gaza Estuary. Photo by: Ayman
Dardona. 16.10.2014.
The Sanderling is a migrating bird from the Polar region; it is common and is seen in
the Middle East and North African coasts through winter. It was observed in Gaza in
October 2014. The length of this bird is 18-20 cm.
Gazelle : The Palestinian Biological Bulletin – Number 124 – April 2015