Sonic explorations of Lake Vistonida and the Nestos Delta

Abstract

The Nestos Delta is a broad wetland of around 4,200 ha in northern Greece, composed of smaller rivers and a complex network of lakes, with the most prominent being lake Vistonida and lake Ismarida. Part of a unique ecosystem with rich biodiversity, lakes Ismarida and Vistonida are considered ‘wetlands of International Importance’ (Ramsar wetlands) hosting a variety of flora and fauna (Maragou and Mantziou 2000). The area is sparsely inhabited, with a few villages situated in or adjacent to the delta, delineated by a network of smaller or greater provincial roads interconnecting the former. The Nestos Delta has been designated as a protected area; however, it faces numerous environmental challenges due to certain non-protected activities taking place there, including agriculture, grazing, tourism, hunting, deforestation, groundwater pumping and others (Zaimes, Gounaridis and Fotakis 2011). Fish farming is particularly prevalent in the region where the project was conducted. Several facilities of this kind are present in the broader deltaic landscape and are commonly equipped with nets to prevent bird intrusion. Unfortunately, the sight of trapped birds dying or already dead in these nets is quite common and is a concern for the scientific teams observing and conducting research in the region. Accordingly, the delta presents itself as a suitable location for both profitable and productive endeavours, as well as recreational activities such as walking, birdwatching, fishing and picnics, among others.