Les rives du lac Ichkeul I The shores of Lake Ichkeul I »«اشلك حبرية ضفاف
A stroll along Lake Ichkeul
Located in Northern Tunisia, between Mateur and
Tinja cities, Lake Ichkeul – a UNESCO World Heritage
Site since 1980 - is a perfect gem for many species of
migratory birds.
Ultimate remnant of a chain of freshwater lakes that stretch all over North
Africa, Lake Ichkeul is an exceptional site, both for its historical value
and its essential role in the protection of certain animal species. Every
Summer, the lake welcomes flocks of pink flamingos, while in Winter, it is
the perfect habitat for several hundred thousand migratory birds before
returning to the sub-Saharan Africa’s warm plains. Whistling ducks,
greater scaups, common coots and greylag geese massively populate this
2,080-km² wetland, as well as some endangered species such as marbled
marlins, slender-billed curlews, white-headed ducks, in addition to many
raptors and geese.
This remarkable bird concentration is mainly caused by Ichkeul Lake’s
very particular hydrological functioning. During the cold season, the
lake is supplied with fresh water by the surrounding wadis, allowing the
proliferation of flora and fish. During the hot season, it takes care of saline
water drawn from the Mediterranean. This fragile balance depends on
the sustainability of the lake’s ecosystem, which was on the List of World
Heritage in Danger from 1996 to 2006.
A habitat of incredible biodiversity, Ichkeul Lake is also an incredible
destination for nature lovers. The lucky ones may meet on their way
domestic buffaloes, porcupines, genets or even African wildcats coming
to drink at the edge of the lake. Little known to the general public, Ichkeul
Lake offers a real peaceful retreat, away from major tourist sites’ chaos.I