Diversion Canal of Turkmen Lake Sees Increase in Bird Populations and Species Diversity

Employees of the Kaplankyr State Nature Reserve have observed growing populations of fish-eating birds on the Dashoguz diversion canal of the Turkmen Lake. The canal and its banks covered in vegetation are a wintering ground for pelicans, cormorants, seagulls, ducks and other birds, which nested on the Sarykamysh Lake before. Wetland birds wintering here have also grown in number. According to the specialists, this is chiefly caused by an overall enhancement of biological resources of the lake under construction, which is home to scores of fish species, as well as by the location of the man-made canal on a bird migration route.

The construction of the unique water system, whose first phase has drastically improved the adjacent lands, makes a positive impact on the environment and encourages the diversity in flora and fauna. During regular on-site visits, the Kaplankyr State Nature Reserve staff notice the occurrence of new wildlife species in the areas along the Dashoguz diversion canal. The ecologists study the bird habitats, monitor species composition and seasonal migration routes.