Remote Atlantic Coast & Bird Refuge
Atlantic Mauritania, Mauritania
The Banc d'Arguin National Park lies on the west coast of Mauritania between Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. This World Heritage Site is a major breeding site for migratory birds. Much of the breeding is on sand banks including the islands of Tidra, Niroumi, Nair, Kiji and Arguim. The surrounding waters are some of the richest fishing waters in western Africa and serve as nesting grounds for the entire western region.
Background
The park comprises sand-dunes, coastal swamps, small islands and shallow coastal waters. Banc d'Arguin National Park was established primarily to protect both the natural resources and the valuable fisheries. The park's vast expanses of mudflats provide a home for over three million migrant shorebirds from northern Europe, Siberia and Greenland.
The region's mild climate and absence of human disturbance makes the park one of the most important sites in the world for these species. The nesting bird population is also noted for its great numbers and diversity.
The contrast between the harsh desert environment and the biodiversity of the marine zone has resulted in a land and seascape of outstanding natural significance. Because of its rich fishery and strategic location, the territory has been highly coveted and disputed by the European colonial powers of Portugal, France, England, Prussia/Germany and Holland.