2500 in two groups). a Hoopoe, Swallows, a Penduline Tit and. Lesser Grey Shrikes (1 ...... foot of a hill on whose top an ancient tower is situated. Rocky cliffs.
M-TR/GR/91/01
Marine Turtles in Greece Results of a survey of potential nesting beaches In the Northern Aegean Sea
November 1991
MEDASSET
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ASSOCIATION TOSAVE
Prepared by Max Kasparek
on behalf of MEDASSET
Mediterranean Association to Save the Sea Turtles
The MEDASSET Project Team
Max Kasparek Bleichstr. 1 6900 Heidelberg
Josef Kreuziger. Bensheim Harald Martens, Frankfurt a.M. Evi Pielschmann. Frankfurt a.M. Marlin Schneyder, Garmlsch-Partenkirchen Alex Scheuerlein, Garmisch-Partenkirchen Harry Sigg. Birkenbeul
5
Contents Summary PARTI
1 Introduction 2 Methods 2.1 Survey techniques 2.2 Maps 2.3 Photographic documentation 2.4 Glossary 2.5 Abbreviations 3 Acknowledgements
4 Results 4.1 Occurrence of sea turtles in the Northern Aegean 4.1.1 Nesting beaches
4.1.2 Non·nesling occurrences 4.1.3 Nesting potential
4.1.4 Discussion 4.2 Pollution 4.3 Sea grass accumulations 4.4 The shallowness of the sea 4.5 Climate 4.6 Sand dunes 4.7 Protected Areas 5 Explanations to the inventory of the North Aegean beaches 6 References PART 11
The Inventory of the north Aegean beaches 1 Thessalian coast and northern Sporades
2 West Macedonian coast 3 Kolpos Thessalonikis
4 Thermaikos Kolpos (northeast coast) 5 Kolpos Kassandras 6 Kolpos Agiou Orcus 7 Kolpos lerissou 8 Kolpos Orfanou 9 Kavala region 10 Nestos delta 11 Lagos region 12 Alexandroupolis region 13 Thassos Island 14 Samothraki Island 15 Limnos Island 16 Lesbos Island PART III (Appendices) Appendix A: Scientific names of the birds recorded during the survey Appendix B: Sample form used for the beach descriptions Appendix C: Sample forms used for the description of sea lurtle tracks
7
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATiONS
The North Aegean coast in the west from Macedonia and Thessalia 10 the Turkish border in the east and including the islands of Samothraki, Thassos, limnos and Lesbos was surveyed for sea turtle nesting in summer 1991. 2078 km coast with a total of 213 beaches comprising 664 km were surveyed. An inventory of all beaches with their physical structure and their human use was prepared. This documentation of the present status of the North Aegean beaches may help in monitoring the development 49 beaches with a total of 140.0 km looked to the experienced eye like possible nesting beaches. Another 42 beaches (149.5 km) looked like less suitable. but still possible nesting beaches. Thus 21.9% of the total North Aegean beach length are suitable and 22.5% less suitable sea turtle nesting beaches. The track of a sea turtle which emerged from the sea onto the beach apparently without clutch deposition was found on Limnos Island. Nesting apparently does not occur in the study area, at least not on a regular basis. It can therefore be stated that no sigificant breeding uses these North Aegean beaches for nesting; this In turn confirms the importance of key nesting beaches in the Ionian Sea, the Turkish Mediterranean coast, and along the Cypriot coast. A study was made to compare the climate of the nesting and non-nesting sites in Turkey and Greece. The duration of the hot season is decisive for sea turtle nesling. The hot season may be lOO short for Ihe successful establishment of a sea lurtle population. Even if this explanation is valid. we must consider the predicted effects of global warming which might well enhance those potential nesting beaches which survive tourism development. Several Loggerhead Turlles (Caretta caretta) were found dead washed ashore and also interviews with local people (mostly fishermen) brought some information. It became evident that the North Aegean Sea holds an Important non-nesting population of Loggerhead Turtles. All Loggerheads were found in the eastern half of the study area and also all reports of local people refer to this area. The reason maybe that there is a very large area of shallow sea. whereas the sea is usually deeper in the western half. For example, the maximum depth is only 26 m between Thassos and the mainland and only 55 m between Samothraki and the mainland. Vast areas of shallow sea are found in particular off the Nestos and Evros deltas and the Porta Lagos lagoon system. The shallow sea provides rich, relatively warm feeding grounds for sea turtles with extensive beds of sea grass. Most Loggerhead Turtles in the North Aegean Sea are immatures. They may come from the Turkish and Greek nesting localities. There are some main weUands (river deltas and estuaries) which are important for a large number of endangered bird species which breed and rest there. These areas urgently need strong protection: Alyki lagoon near Kitros, the Axios delta (inclUding the estuaries of the rivers Loudias and Aliakmon). the Strimonas delta, the Nestos delta. the lagoon system of Porta Lagos (including Limni Vistonis and other coastal lagoons) and the Evros delta (including adjacent wetlands). Apart from Alyki lagoon and the Strimonas delta. they have been established as Ramsar sites. but the basis in the national Greek laws is insufficient. It is recommended to improve the legal status of these areas urgenlly. At least 15 more areas were identified which do not have any legal status, but which are important for nature conservation. A preliminary list of these areas is given in chapter 4.6. In most cases, there are unspoilt sand dunes and coastal wetlands. Both habitat types are extremely fragile and harbour specialized animal and plant communities with several threatened species. The importance of sand dunes has been recognized only recently in the Draft Habitats Directive. the CORIN data bank and within C.o.E. Recommendation 997 (1984) & 1015 (1985) and in GEHU (1985). These areas are threatened by Ihe development of the coast. 1t is recommended to map these areas completely and to protect them by national laws.
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1
Thessalian coast and northern Sporades
Agiokambos beach ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
1.1 (151) The beach extends from the end of a rocky coasl in the north to the harbour of Agiokambos in the south. 39°43'N 2Z052'E 9.5 km 20 m The beach consists of shingle which is fine to coarse grained. Fine sand intermixed with large pebbles is found in the upper beach (c. 10
m behind the coastline). The slope of the beach is gentle in the north, but sharp in the south. An up to 1.5 m high step is formed in the south at the line where shingle changes to sand.
land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
The selllement of Agiokampos extends over almost the whole beach. A road runs between the houses and the beach in some 50 m
distance from the sea. Many fisher boats were lying on the beach. Only relatively few tourists were present in June. Shingle was extracted alone place. Many tracks of vehicles and humans were noled in the sand in the south. Very little litter had been washed onto the coast. A Little Ringed Plover and 2 Yellow-legged Gulls were noted on the beach, Pallid Swifts. Goldfinches, House Martins. Swallows and House Sparrows in the village. The beach is too stony in general for turtle nesing. Only some upper parts would be suitable.
Kavo Dhennalas beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
1.2 (150) The beach lies to the north of Kava Dhermatas and is bordered by rocks in the south and north. 39°48'N 2Z050'E 2.7 km 14 (10-24) m The beach consists of fine shingle with some fine sand in the upper parts. The slope from the sea is medium, but sometimes sharp in the splash lone. The hinterland is hilly and slopes with a dense vegetation cover rise immediately behind the beach. The houses of a village behind the beach are almost completely covered by trees and thus hardly visible from the beach. A road runs parallel to the coast. Some tourists were noted on the beach and some casual camping occurred near the southern edge of the beach. Tracks of vehicles were seen in the shingle. Almost no visible pollution. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls and 2 Carrion Crows were noted.
38
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is too stony and too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
51omion beach ID-number: Explanation:
1.311701 The beach extends from the harbour jelly of Stomion 10 Ak. Platamon where the Pinios river runs into the sea.
Co-ordinates:
39°54'N 22°42'E
Length:
9.0 km 12 m
Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Conserv. value:
The beach consists of fine sand. Only towards Ak. Plalamon, where the mouth of Pinios River is situated does 1he material become somewhat coarser in the splash zone. Roots of trees were present in the shallow sea, indicating heavy erosion and the former existence of a forest along the coast. Although the slope of the beach from the sea is
gentle in general, an upto 30 cm high sand bank is found sometimes in the splash zone. Extensive sand dunes with a rich, natural vegetation are found above the beach. Wellands are situated to the rear of the dunes. A brook runs into the sea near Stomion. two other do nol reach Ihe sea but end only a few meters behind it (in summer). These are branches of the Pinios River. The main stream runs at Ak. Plata· man into the sea (most maps are wrong). The harbour of Slomios is situated at the southern edge of the beach. Camping facilities are found there. too. Several summer houses are being constructed in Ihe centre of the beach and some fisher huts are scattered over the coast. Fishermen were also seen in the mouth of the river. Tracks of heavy vehicles, cows and humans were present all over the beach. The beach was almost free from litter washed ashore. Some square meters of a thin oil film was noted near some fisher boats in the river mouth. The remains of Paper-nautilus (Argonauta argo) were found on the beach. Other observations included Marsh Frog (Rana ridibunda). Tree Frog (HyJa arboreal, Common Wall Lizard (Lacerla muralis) and Aescula· pian Snake (Elaphe longissima). A rich bird life was noted on the beach and in the rear wetlands: Grey Heron (1 bird). White Stork (c. 5 breeding pairs in one of the rear villa· ges). Hobby (4 birds). Little Ringed Plover (1 pair). Kentish Plover (3 breeding pairs), Common Sandpiper (up to 28 at a roost). Oystercat· cher (2 birds on 4.7. but 46 on 24.7.91), Yellow·/egged Gulls (c. 20 on 4.7, but > 100 on 24.7.91). Mediterranean Gull. Black·headed Gull, Common Tern (6 birds), Pallid Swift (1 bird), Nightjar, Crested Lark, Red·rumped Swallow (c. 20 birds), Cetti's Warbler (1 sing.), Great Reed Warbler (1 sing.), Corn Bunting (2 sing.), Black-headed Bunting (3 sing.), Carrion Crow (c. 25 birds) and Magpie (1 bird). The beach provides an excellent habitat for sea turtle nesting. The beach has a fine texture and extensive sand dunes follow immedia· tely to the rear. Extensive sand dunes and wetlands together with the beach form an interesting biotope of high scenic value. Some streams run into the sea duriung high water level, but do not reach the sea in the dry season and form then pools of standing water with a rich wildlife. Among threatened birds, we observed e.g. White Storks, Oystercatchers, Mediterranean Gulls, Common Terns and Great Reed Warblers.
39
Nea Messangala south beach ID-number: Explanation:
1.4 (171) The beach extends from the mouth of the Pinios River (southern border) to the village of Nea Messangala (northern border).
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
39'57'N 22'42'E
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Vadous: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
1.5 km 6m On the left side of Pinios River this beach is relatively narrow and consists of fine sand. The beach is subject to heavy erosion and therefore the slope from the sea is sharp. Often cliffs have been formed. Old roots of Common Reed (Phragmites 8ustralis) are found even in the shallow sea, thus demonstrating clearly the degree of erosion. Common Reed and various grasses (Gramineae) grow on the upper beach. Almost no human use. There were some anglers near Nea Messangala beach (especially at night) and a few fisher boats in the mouth of Pinios river. There was some litter on the beach which had been washed ashore. A Kentish Plover was recorded. A thick layer of sea grass was noted near the river mouth. Although consisting of fine sand, the beach is too narrow for sea turtte nesting. This beach may present a kind of buffer zone for the Stomion beach (see above).
Nea Messangala beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.!.n. potential:
1.5 (172) This is the beach sector directly in front of the village of N. Messangala. 39°58'N 22°41 'E 2.4 km 5-15 m Due to many new summer houses, the village of Nea Messangala now covers a large area. The beach in front of the village consists of fine sand and often slopes steeply from the sea (but interspersed with areas of gentle inclination). A narrow strip of sand dunes is oflen found in belween the village and the beach. The beach is used by local tourists 10 whom the rear summer houses belong. Many people come onto the beach at night for rod fishing. Bottles and cans found on the beach most probably stem from rishermen. Some Tree Frogs (Hyla arborea) were heard. The beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness and the enormous human influence.
Platomonas south beach ID-number: Explanation:
1.6 (152) The beach extends from Nea Messangala to Platamonas.
40
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
39'58'N 22"40'E 2.1 km &-15 m The beach is 1CH5 m wide towards each end. but only some 6 m in its central region where it also slopes rather sharply. A 1 m high sandy cliff is found there. A lake is situated to the rear of the middle of the beach and the minimum distance from the lake to the sea is only 20 m. The lake is used for fish culture. Sand dunes are found above the beach. They are very extensive in particular near the lake. Moderate numbers of tourists were noted near Nea Messangala and almost none further north. Anglers were scallered over the beach in the evening. No visible pollution. Two Cotton·Spinners (Holothurioidea) had been washed onto the shore. Bird records included 4 Kentish Plovers. 1 Little Ringed Plover. 1 Oystercatcher, 3 Common Sandpipers. 2 Collared Pratincoles. 10+ Mediterranean Gulls. 20 Black-headed Gulls. 6 Yellow-legged Gulls and 1 Common Tern. Being rather narrow. the beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting. The beach with a small lake to its rear is important for birds. We observed for example Collared Pratincoles. Oystercatchers and Medi· terranean Gulls.
4'
2
West Macedonian coast
Plalamonas north beach ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
2.1 (153) The beach extends from Pfatamonas in the south to the ancient fort of Heracleum in the north.
39°59'N 22°37'E 6.6 km 50-aD m The beach consists of fine sand in the south. but it becomes increasingly stony and narrow towards the north. It is supposed that the beach has been enlarged by man by leveling the dunes. The harbour of Platamonas is situated in the middle of the beach, a concrete beach promenade to its north. The northermosl 300 m are very stony and rocks rise immediately behind the beach. The whole beach is used by tourists. Large hotels, restaurants, camping sites, a harbour, a beach promenade, water sport facilities etc. are found here. Private cars were noted directly on the beach. There is only a very low pollution by liNer washed ashore. Pa'llid Swins (c. 30) were apparently breeding at a small church on the shore. Other species included House Martin, Sand Martin and Corn Bunting. The beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting, as many houses are close to the beach and the tourist pressure is very high.
Heracleum beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
2.2 (154) The beach extends from the ancient fort of Heracleum (which is situated on the top of a coastal hill) to a place where the sand of the beach changes immediately to shingle. 40°01 'N 22"35'E 3.9 km 20 m A fine sandy, gently sloping beach which has been widened for tourists by leveling and removing the vegetation from the sand dunes. Some shingle is found in the splash zone. The southern end is very narrow where a brook runs into the sea. Intensive bathing takes place on the whole beach. Hotels, camping sites, restaurants, holiday houses and other tourist facilities cover Ihe whole coast. Boats, surf boards and huge plastic bananas ('banana riding') are offered for renting. Some fishing boats are found, too. Some boats are even constructed on the beach (a simple boatyard). No visible pollution. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls and 2 Carrion Crows were recorded. The beach would be physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but
42
there are too many tourist establishments.
Leptokarias south beach ID-number: Explanation:
2.3 (155) The beach extends from a place where sand changes abruptly to shingle (southern border) to the end of the bay near Leptokarias (northern border).
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
40'03'N 22"34'E 3.9 km $-30 m The beach is very narrow in the south (c. 5 rn) and consists of coarse shingle (pebbles of the size of a fist). It becomes wider towards the north and the coarse shingle is replaced more and more by fine shingle mixed with sand. A small wood is situated at the southern end of the beach. A large hotel is situated close 10 the beach towards the southern end. A road runs parallel to the coast for a few kilometres and close to the beach. The town of Leptokarias is situated toin the north. Many tourists were present on the beach. Very linle rubbish washed onto the beach. Jackdaws were noted. Some parts of the beach would be physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but the tourist pressure is too high.
Leptokarias north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
2.4 (156) The beach extends in the south from the northern end of Leptokarias to the beginning of Sleep cliffs in the north. 400 05'N 2Z034'E 2.1 km
12-15 m The beach material is fine 10 coarse shingle in the splash zone which is mostly replaced by rine sand in the upper parts. Fallow land, a very small welland (with Common Reed, Phragmites australis) and gardens form the hinterland of the beach. A military camp is situated on the coast and some private summer houses are scattered over the beach. The number of tourists was moderate. Sun umbrellas were present. There was only little garbage which had been washed onto the coast. Although there is already some tourist pressure. it is a potential nesting beach for sea turtles. This is an intact ecosystem with beach, extensive (unspoilt) sand dunes and a small reeed bed in a wet depression.
43
Plaka Litohorou north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
2.5 (157) This beach section covers the narrow beach strip at the foot of a long cliff to the north of Skata Lilohorou. 40o Q7'N 22°33'E 4.9 km 7m A narrow stony beach al the fool of an almost 15 m high cliff. The cliff and steep slopes are covered by dense Mediterranean scrub and some trees. The shingle of which the beach consists is rather coarse, but some sand is sometimes found in the upper part.
land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential: Conser .... value:
Some private villas are situated on lop of the cliff and on the steep slopes. Usually they are not visible from the beach. A few tourists used the beach for swimming. A fishery installation with large nets is found in the shallow sea. No visible pollution. c. 60 Yellow-legged Gulls and 6 Mediterranean Gulls were noted on the fish farm. A dead ray (Torpedinidae) was found on the beach. The beach is too narrow and too stony for sea turtle nesting. Unspoilt Mediterranean maquis on the steep slopes above the beach extends onto the beach and forms an interesting habitat.
Limani Litohorou beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.!.n. potential:
2.6 (158) The beach extends from the harbour jetty of Limani Litohorou in the north to the beginning of a steep cliff in the south. 40 0 08'N 22°33'E 2.0 km 25 m A gently sloping beach which consists of a mixture of fine sand and shingle. A beach which is has 100% use by tourists. Boats were lying on the beach. Camping sites and other tourist facilities are situated to the rear of the beach. No visible pollution. 15 Kentish Plovers were noted. Although physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, there are too many tourists on the beach.
Kalivia Varikou south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
2.7 (159) The beach extends from Limani Litohorou in the south to Kalivia Vari· kou in the north. 400 10'N 22°33'E
4.5 km 15 (12-20) m The northern half of the beach consists of fine sand which gradually
44
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
changes to a mixture of coarse sand and shingle towards the south. Banks of fine sand are embedded into the coarse material in the south. The beach width is greater in the north (20 rn) than in the south (12-15 m). Three brooks run into the sea on the beach: one near the harbour of Umani Utohorou, one in the middle and one in the northern third. Another stream diffuses away before reaching the sea. Dense reed beds and wet meadows are found near the streams. Low sand dunes follow the upper border of the beach. They are covered by relatively dense vegetation. High dunes with hillocks up to 4 m are situated around the stream which runs into the sea in the middle of the beach. The number of tourists on the beach was relatively low (even by lateJuly) and they were mostly concentrated in the south around the harbour. A number of tourist boats and fishing boats were noted in the northern half of the beach. Small summer houses are found to the rear of the norlhern beach and there is a camping site (Stani camping) at the northern edge. The dune vegetation is used for pasturing goats. Fishing nets are fixed in the shallow sea and some installations for rearing Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galJoprovincialis) were present. The beach was slightly polluted by rubbish washed ashore. A Stripe-necked Terrapin (Mauremys caspica), a Hermann's Tortoise (Testudo hermanni), a Balkan Green Lizard (Lacerta trilineata) and an unidentified Rana-frog were noted. Birds included 1 Black-necked Grebe. 1 Uttle Billern, 7 Little Ringed Plovers. 3 Kentish Plovers, 2 Common Sandpipers. 1 Curlew Sandpiper, 2 Moorhens, c. 60 Yellow-legged Gulls, 4 Mediterranean Gulls, House Martins. Swallows and 2 Great Reed Warblers. Allhough there are stony areas. the beach would be suitable for sea turtle nesting. Even the number of tourists is still moderate. Extensive sand dunes with upto 4 m high hillocks. the mouths of some small streams, wet meadows and reed beds and the beach itself form an interesting ecosystem. Our bird observations included Black-nekked Grebe. Litlle Bitlern. Mediterranean Gull and Great Reed Warbler. All are endangered species.
Kalivia Varikou beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
2.8 (160) The beach extends from Kalivia Varikou in the south to the mouth of Mavroneri in the north. 400 12'N 22°35'E 3.0 km 25 m A beach of fine sand which is some 25 m broad in the south. but becomes narrower in the north. Although it slopes gently from the sea in general. a steep sandy cliff is found near the Mavroneri mouth. Some flat coastal lakes are situated behind the coast. During high water level. a connection between the lakes and the sea is formed. Dense reed beds (with Common Reed. Phragmites australis) are found on the shores of the lakes. A camping site (Stani camping) is situated at the southern edge of the beach. Some houses and hotels are situated at leasl 150 m away from the coast. Tourists were scatlered over the beach (with a small concentration near Kalivia Varikou), but their total number was low. Tracks of vehicles were noted in the sand. Several fishing boats were
45
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Conserv. value:
seen in the sea and some nets were lying on the beach for drying. Some rubbish which had been washed ashore was recorded. Oystercatchers (5 pairs), Little Ringed Plovers (6 pairs), Kentish Plovers (15-20 birds), Common Sandpipers (> 30 birds), Yellow·legged Gulls (c. 2500 in two groups). a Hoopoe, Swallows, a Penduline Tit and Lesser Grey Shrikes (1 pair with 3 fledged young) were observed. Apart from the northern end, which is too narrow and where the sand is too moist, the broad sandy beach would be an excellent nesting area for sea turtles. A fine, almost unspoilt beach with large sand dunes and some small reed-fringed lakes to the rear (which are connected with the sea at high water level). The mouth of Mavroneri is in particular interesting, as tamarisk scrub, sand banks etc. are found there. Our bird records include Oystercatcher, Penduline Tit and Lesser Grey Shrike. As they are endangered species, it indicates the importance of the area for wildlife.
Olimbiaki Akti beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
2.9 (161) The beach extends from the mouth of the Mavroneri in the south to Dlimbiaki Akti village in the north. 400 13'N 22°35'E 3.2 km 4-20 m A fine sandy beach. Its width is some 20 m near Olimbiaki Akti, bUI becomes considerably narrower to the south, so that it has a width of only a few meters near the river mouth. 11 sharply slopes here and a 100 m long sandy cliff (1-2 m high) is found. Otherwise, the slope is moderate. Sand dunes with a coverage of various grasses (Gramineae) are found above the beach. A wetland behind the coast sometimes extends to the dunes. Some casual camping occurred near the river mouth. Many tracks of humans were seen in the sand, although the number of tourists was moderate. Some fishermen were present on the beach. No visible pollution. 3 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers and 1 Kentish Plover were noted. Much sea grass has been washed onto the shore south of the river mouth. Some flotsam was present everywhere. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting only at some broad places. The combination of beach, river mouth, sand dunes, and a weltand 10 the rear forms an interesting mosaic of habitats in a relatively small area.
Paralia south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: length: Beach width:
2.10 (162) The beach extends from the harbour of Paralia in the north to Olimbiaki Akti in the south. 400 1S'N 22"36'E 2.4 km 30 m
d
46
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.l.n. potential:
A fine sandy beach. The slope from the sea is slight to moderate, but a sleep cliff (some 40 cm high in general. but reaching 1.0 m) is found sometimes in the splash zone. Some 20 m broad sand dunes are found in the rear of the beach. A road runs parallel to the coast directly beside the dunes. Behind the road, there are private houses (with up to three floors) and hotels, restaurants etc. The distribution of tourists on the beach varied greatly and was grealest near Paralia and in the southern hair. Tourist fadli· lies included water skiing, water motor bikes etc. and many sun umbrellas were presenl on the beach. Only very lillle polluted by litter washed onlo the shore. S Kentish Plovers and several Yellow-legged Gu lis were observed. Although physically siutable for sea turtle nesting, the tourist pressure is too high.
Paralia north beach ID~number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
2.11 (163) The beach eXlends from Paralia in Ihe south to the poinl where a road parallel to Ihe coast ends. 400 17'N 22°35'E 4.8 km 10-20 (-60) m A beach of fine sand with extensive sand dunes in the rear. The beach is very broad in the extreme south and north (50 m) which is, however, a result of removing the vegetation from the dunes. The slope of the beach from the sea is gentle. but a steep step is often found in the splash zone. Various grasses (Gramineae) grow on the sand dunes. A welland extends over a large area in Ihe rear of the coast. Many tourists were present in the south and the north. bul almost none in the middle of Ihe beach. Some tracks of vehicles were noted in the sand. No visible pollulion. Herpelological observations included a Green Toad (Bufo viridis), a Stripe-necked Terrapin (Mauremys caspica), a Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) and a Large Whip Snake (Co/uber caspius). Ornithological records included 2 Oystercatchers, c. 5 Kentish Plo· vers, c. 3 pairs of Lillle Ringed Plovers. a Common Sandpiper. a Yel· low Wagtail, a ShorHoed Lark, several Crested Larks, a Great Reed Warbler and a Corn Bunling. The beach is well suitable for sea turtle nesting despite Ihe lourist development which is. however, confined to both ends. There is still an intact ecosystem with different habitats like coastal wetlands 10 the rear (mead weadows etc.), extensive sand dunes etc. The diversity of reptiles and birds is high.
Korinos beach ID-number: Explanation:
2.12 (164) The beach extends from a camping site to the east of Korinos (southern border) to the light house of Ak. Atheridha (northern
47
border). Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
Various:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
400 20'N 22°38'E 8.1 km 16 m The beach consists of fine sand. Its structure is irregular with some up and downs. Sand dunes are found above the beach and an extensive welland in the rear. No tourist use is made of the beach. Two tracks of vehicles was the only sign of humans. Almost no litter was recorded in the flotsam. A rich bird life was seen on the shore and the rear lagoon: a Grey Heron, 2 Utile Egrets, a Shelduck, c. 40 Pelikans, 5 pairs Oystercatchers, 4 Stilts, 6 Avocets, 6 pairs of Litlle Ringed Plover, 15 Kentish Plovers, 2 Stone Curlews, a Collared Pratincole, 3 Redshanks, 5 Common Sandpipers, c. 30 Yellow-legged Gulls, 5 Mediterranean Gulls, 5 Common Terns, 5 Lilt le Terns, c. 10 Sort-toed Larks, c. 25 Crested Larks. 150 Calandra Larks and 20 Corn Buntings. Large amounts of sea grass had been washed onto the shore and cover a 4 m broad strip of the splash zone. This forms a low barrier up to 40 cm high. Although the sand is relatively wet in some areas, sea turtle nesting would be possible in the drier regions. A large lagoon 10 the rear of the beach bears international importance for its bird life. The beach. the sand dunes and some wet meadows between the sea and the lagoon are an important part of the ecosystem.
48
3
Kolpos Thessalonikis
Alikes beach JD·number:
Explanation:
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
Protection: Various:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
3.1 (165) The beach extends from the light house on Ak. Aherada (Alheridha) in the south 10 the harbour of Alikes in the northwest. 40 Q 22'N 22°37'E 3.3 km
7m A narrow, flat beach which consists of fine. mostly moist (and there· fore very compact) sand. Dense halophile vegetation including e.g. Salicornia, Limonium and Limoniaslrum follow immediately behind the beach. Dunes are missing. An extensive wetland is situated in the rear of the coast. Some anglers and tourists were present on the beach. A pumping sla· lion is situated in the middle of the beach (pumping drainage waler from a rear wetland into the sea) and a road to the station runs parallelto the coast close to the sea. The beach is very polluted towards the harbour, where there is an awful smell of sewage sludge. The pollution from garbage washed onto the shore is medium. A rich bird life was noted on the beach and those parts of lhe rear wetland which could be surveyed from the coast: a Little Egret. c. 150 Redshanks, 3 Kentish Plovers, a Common Sandpiper. 12 Collared Pratincoles, 5 Common Terns, a Little Tern, 8-10 Black Terns,S Slenderbilled Gulls, c. 200 Mediterranean Gulls. c. 20 Black-headed Gulls, c, 50 Yellow-legged Gulls, 2 Hoopoes and a Calandra Lark. The rear welland includes salines which are protected from hunting. Large amounts of sea grass have been deposited by the sea on the shore in particular near the harbour. The beach is too narrow and too wet for sea turtle nesting. The beach separates a lagoon from the sea. The lagoon is an internationally important bird area and the beach plays the role of a buffer zone.
Makrigialos beach ID-number: Explanation:
3.2 (166) The beach extends from Ihe harbour of Alikes in the soulh 10 the beginning of rocky cliffs near Makrigialos in the north.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 23'N 22°37'E 1.4 km 15 m The beach is divided by rocks into two 0.7 km halves. Its width varies greatly and reaches even 40 m at one place. The beach consists of fine sand.
49
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
Holels are situated to Ihe rear of the coast. Only a few tourists were present on the beach, but several anglers. Tracks of vehicles were also seen. Installations for rearing Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) were noted in the sea. Although we noted oil cans and empty bottles, the overall pollution from litter washed onlo the shore was moderate. 4 Yellow-legged Gulls and 2 Black·headed Gulls were recorded. Much sea grass had been washed onto the beach. The beach is loo narrow, too wet and too polluted for sea turtle nesting.
Nea Agathoupolis beach IO·number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
3.3 (167) The beach extends from some beach restauranls at Nea Agalhoupolis in the south to the moulh of a western branch of the Aliakmonas River in the north. 40"28'N 22"3S'E 2.6 km
4m A very narrow, flat beach. It consists of mud intermixed with some sand. This material is moist and compact and it is apparently flooded from lime to lime. A dense cover of wetland vegetation follows immediately behind the beach. Trees are also found in the rear wetland. The sea in front of the beach is extremely shallow. Several reustauranls are situaled above the beach in the village of Nea Agalhoupolis and a 101 of fishing boats were presenl there. No tourisls were on Ihe beach. There was a smell of sewage sludge in the air indicating a high eulrophication of the sea and/or the welland. The beach is lOO narrow and the sand too moist for sea turtle nesting.
Axios Delta IO·number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
3.4 (168) The delta coast extends from the mouth of some western branches of the Aliakmonas River in the soulhwest to the border of Thessaloniki in the east. 40"32'N 22"4S'E 70 km
2-4 m The Axios delta includes the mouths of the rivers Aliakmonas. Loudias and Axios (from the west la the east) and of several branches of the rivers and of drainage channels. The coastline is richly structured and may vary considerably from year to year due 10 silting and erosion. The beach consists of mud which is moist and relatively hard. The dense vegetation of the extensive weHands in the rear reaches almosl the splash line. The sea in the delta region is extremely shallow. The wetland in the rear of the coast is used as pasture for cows. No visible pollution. A rich bird life was observed in the wet lands bordering the sea: 2
50
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
Squacco Herons, c. 15 Night Herons. 3 Spoonbills, 4 White Storks. a Long-legged Buzzard. 1 Buzzard. 1 Marsh Harrier, 2 Kestrels, a Moorhen. 2 Stilts. 3 Oystercatchers. 10 Redshanks. 1 Common Sandpiper. c. 10 Common Terns. a Little Tern, c. 7 pairs of Bee-eater (nesting holes seen), a pair of Roller (nesting in the Bee-eater colony), 2 sing. Fieldfares, Crested Larks. c. 200 Sand Martins, a Tawny Pipit. c. 25 Great Reed Warblers, a Reed Warbler and 1 Penduline Tit. The lack of sand dunes (mud is the dominant material) makes sea turtle nesting impossible. The Axios delta is an internationally important bird area with a high nu mber of endangered birds which breed and rest here.
Radio station beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.l.n. potential:
3.5 (149) The beach extends from the end of the town of Peraea in the southwest to a military area (air field) in the northeast. 400 31'N 22°56'E 2.1 km ~7m
A fine sandy beach which slopes gently from the sea. Grasses (Gramineael are found in the rear sand dunes and Juncaceae and Common Reed (Phragmites austrafis) cover a small wet land. The remains of a former drainage system are seen behind the beach. Tourists are found only in the west. Tourist facilities are under construction above the beach. A military air field and radio masts are situated in the northeastern corner of the beach. Much litter was among the flotsam which had been washed onto the beach. Collared Pratincoles (20-30 birds), KentiSh Plovers (2 pairs) and Yellow-legged Gulls were observed. Much sea grass was noted on the shore. The sea was turbid. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Aj. Trias beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
3.6 (148) The beach extends from the rocks of Aj. Trias in the west to Peraea in the east. 400 30'N 22054'E 5.4 km 15 m A flat, fine sandy beach. Within Peraea, the upper limit of the beach is formed by a road behind which houses are situated. A typical bathing beach with several jetties, boats, camping site, restaurants, hotels etc. The intensity of tourism is greatest in and near the town. but still modest far away from it. The beach and the sea are relatively clean. Yellow-legged Gulls and House Martins were recorded. Much sea grass had been washed onto the shore. Also many shells of mussels and snails were present on the beach. Due to the tourist development. the beach is less favourable for sea
51
turtle nesting.
Tuzla south beach ID-number: Explanation:
3.7 (147)
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 28'N 22°49'E 2.5 km
The beach extends in the north from the outflow of the Tuzla lagoon
into the sea to rocky cliffs in the south.
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various:
S.t.n. potential: Canserv. value:
5 (-10) m The beach is rather narrow at its northern end al the tip of the spit of land (less than 5 m broad), but somwewhat wider further south (but still less than 10 m). A lagoon with salt marshes including a Juncaceae cover on its shores is situated in the rear of the coast. Submerged vegel;:tlion is found especially in the shallow northern part. The sand of the beach is fine and dunes in the upper beach are very hilly. Only a few fishermen were seen on the northern part of the beach. but tourists became increasingly frequent towards the south. Some huts were scallered over the beach. A road runs to the southern end of the beach and a restaurant is found at the place where the road meets the beach. Mediterranean Mussels (Mytilus galloprovincialis) are reared in the shallow sea in front of the coast. Some plastic containers from the mussel rearing had been washed ashore. The sea was clear in the south, but turbid in the north. A rich bird life was found on the beach and the rear lagoon: > 150 Shelducks (including many with young), 3 Redshanks. c. 20 Avocets. c. 40 Stills, c. 10 pairs Kentish Plovers, 10.15 Collared Pratincoles, 2 Mediterranean Gulls. 1 Black-headed Gull, c. 5 Yellow-legged Gulls and 3 little Terns. Passerines included House Martin, Swallow, Calandra Lark. Crested Lark. Fieldfare, Tawny Pipi!. House Sparrow and Corn Bunting. A layer of sea grass was washed onto the northern beach. but only little on the southern one. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting. There is a high diversity of habitats. including sand dunes, a lagoon, salt marshes etc. with a rich bird life.
Paliuras north beach ID-number: Explanation:
3.B (146) This is the northern continuation of the Paliuras beach. from which it is separated by a broad sandy beach section.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 26'N 22°52'E
Land use:
1.5 km Bm The beach mainly consists of fine sand. but intermixed with larger pebbles. A small lagoon is situated to the rear of the beach in the middle part. Fallow land forms the rear of the southern edge and a small village is situated at the northern edge of the beach. A narrow strip of sand dunes is found in particular in the central parts. The northern end of the beach is used by many tourists for recreation (village!). Some boals and fishermen's huts were noted.
52
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
No visible pollution. 10 Stilts, 12 Liltle Terns, c. 20 Kentish Plovers and Swallows were recorded at Ihe lagoon. Much sea grass had been washed onto Ihe shore. The beach is loo narrow and the sand too moist for sea turtle nesting. Together with Tuzla soulh beach (beach no. 3.7.), it is an important breeding and resting area for birds.
Paliuras beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potentiat:
3.9 (145) The beach extends from Ihe cliffs to the south of Paliuras (southern border) to the place where the beach width suddenly increases considerably (northern border). 40"25'N 22"53'E 2.3 km 6-8 m (20 m only northern end) The beach consists of fine sand and slopes gently from the sea. The village of Paliuras is situated immediately behind the beach. The whole beach is under intensive tourist pressure from the village of Paliuras, including a camping site and restaurants etc. Some litler was noted among the flotsam on the beach. The beach is too narrow and the tourist use too heavy for sea turtle nesting.
Epanomis northeast beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
3.10(144) The beach extends from the lighthouses on Epanomis peninsula to the camping site of Ormos (Epanomi camping). 40"23'N 22"54'E 3.0 km 5-7 m A small sandy beach which becomes increasingly wider towards the outermost end of a spit of land where a lighthouse is situated. A sandbank is found in the sea in front of Ihe tip of the spit. The slope of the beach from the sea is irregular and it mostly slopes in a few stair-like elevations. The sand is fine, but larger pebbles are intermixed. Sand dunes are found above the beach. A lagoon is situated on the spit of land. A camping site is situated on the northeastern edge of the beach and a lot of people were present there. Some tourists and local fishermen with boats were active on the spit and 2-3 huts were also available there. The wreck of a ship was was noted off the tip of the peninsula. Two large pipes are draining Ihe lagoon. The sea near the mouth of the pipes is rather turbid. Plastic lilter had been washed ashore, but less on the spit. Little Egrets (4 birds), Kentish Plovers (8-10 birds), Stints (20 birds), Redshanks (c. 50 birds), Yellow-legged Gulls (c. 30 birds) and Little Terns (5-8 birds) were present at the lagoon. The outer end of the spit would be suitable for sea turtle nesting. The spit with a sand bank. a rear lagoon and extensive sand dunes
53
are important breeding and resting areas for birds.
54
4
Thermaikos Kolpos (northeast coast)
Epanomis east beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
4.1 (143) The beach extends from the light house of Epanomis peninsula to the beginning of rocky cliffs in the east. 40"23'N 22°55'E 5.7 km 20 m The beach consists of fine sand and slopes gently from the sea. Only in the splash zone is some coarser quartz sand found. Extensive sand dunes extend above the beach. Salt marshes with Salicornia and tamarisks (Tamarix sp.) are found in the west, freshwater marshes with Juncus and Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in the east. The coastal waters are important fishery grounds and many nets
(which can easily be identified by the buoys from the coast) are found. A few restaurants are situated to the rear of the beach. The usage of the beach by tourists is modes!. No visible pollution. Kentish Plovers (5 groups up to 5 birds), Stone Curlews (3 birds). Hou· ses Martins. Swallows and Great Reed Warblers were noted. A few Sepia had been washed onto the shore. Very liltle sea grass was noted on the beach. The beach would be suitable for sea turtle nesting. Salt and fresh water marshes. tamarisk scrub and extensive sand dunes are an interesting combination of habitats which have a rich wild life.
Aj. Nikolaos beach IO·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution:
4.2 (142) The beach extends from some rocky cliffs to the west of Nea lraklia (eastern border) to the end of the sandy beach (western border). 400 22'N 22"59'E 2.5 km 10 m The beach consists of fine sand but intermixed with pebbles with a diameter upto 5 cm. The slope of the beach is moderate and narrow sand dunes are found to the rear. Steep slopes and cliffs up to 20 m high rise immediately behind the beach. They are covered by Mediterranean scrub. Private summer houses are situated on top of the cliffs and concrete slairs lead down to the beach. Many tourists use the beach for recreation. Boat facilities (rent·a-boat) including ramps for putting boats into the sea are found on the beach. A dead dog was lying on the beach.
55
Various: S.l.n. potential:
Sparse sea grass had been washed ashore. Allhough the beach is not very broad and the ground water table relatively high, sea turtle nesting still seems possible.
Iraklia beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various: S.l.n. potential:
4.3 (141) The beach extends from the harbour of Iraklia in the east to rocky cliffs in the west. 40"21'N 23"01'E 1.3 km 4-8 m Atlhough the beach consists mostly of fine sand, it is mixed with much shingle and large pebbles. Only about 100 m consisls of pure fine sand. The slope of the beach from the sea is slight. The whole beach is used for bathing. mostly the abovementioned area of pure fine sand. The village of Jraklia is situated immediately to the rear of the beach and is separated by a road. The small harbour (wilh some one hundred of fishing boats) of Iraklia is situated at the eastern edge of the beach. The beach near (he harbour is slightly polluted from oil. Some liller was found among the flotsam. Some sea grass had been washt:!d onlo the shore. The beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness and the development.
Ak. Smila beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.l.n. potential:
4.4 (140) The beach extends from the harbour of Iraklia to the end of the broad sandy beach to the east. 400 20'N 23°01'E 3.3 km 10-20 m The beach consists of fine sand and is some 20 m wide at its centre, but less on both sides. Flat sand dunes are found above the beach. They extend far inland in particular at the centre of the beach which protudes into the sea (Ak. Smila). Two small wetlands with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) are situated 10 the rear of the beach. Tourist activities on the eastern and western edge of the beach, where the settlements of Iraklia and Nea Kallikratia are situated. The spit of land in the centre is almost without tourists, Very little rubbish had been washed onto the beach. 6 pairs of Kentish Plovers were present on the beach. Sea turtle nesting seems possible in the centre of the beach.
56
Nea Kallikratia west beach ID-number:
Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
4.5 (139) The beach extends in the east from the rocks on the shore west of Nea Kallikratia to the end of the relatively wide sand beach in the west. 400 19'N 23°02'E 1.0 km 2·4 m The beach consists for the mosl part of coarse grained shingle with large pebbles. 11 slopes gently from the sea. Only a 200 m long segment near the eastern edge consists of fine sand and which is about 10 m broad. Tourists were concentrated at the eastern edge of the beach. There were, however, some relatively simple restaurants along the coast. Little polluted with garbage washed ashore. A pair of U"le Ringed Plovers was recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Nea Kallikratia beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
4.6 (13B) The beach extends from the harbour of Nea Kallikratia to the beginning of rocks to the west of it. 400 19'N 23°04'E 1.0 km Bm The beach consists of fine sand and slopes gently from the sea. Sand dunes are missing. The town of Nea Kallikratia is situated immediately behind the beach and is separated from it mostly by a wall and a road. The whole beach is used for tourism. No visible pollution. The beach is unsuitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness and tourist development.
Sozopolis west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution:
4.7 (137) The beach lies between Sozopolis and Nea Kallikratia and is bordered by rocks on both sides. 40"17'N 23°0B'E 2.4 km lG-12 m The gently sloping beach consists of fine sand. Narrow sand dunes with only sparse rudiments of the natural vegetation are found above the beach. A village is situated behind the beach. 11 is separated from the beach by a road. There were intensive tourist activities on the beach including heavy boat traffic (rent-a-boat facilities!). No visible pollution.
57
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is unsuitable for sea turtle nesting due to ils narrowness and tourist development.
Sozopolis east beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various:
S.1.n. potential:
4.8 (136) The beach extends from the harbour jelly of Nea Plajia to the harbour jelly of Sozopolis. 400 16'N 23°1crE 3.8 km 10 m The beach consists of fine sand. but is intermixed with larger pebbles. Flat rocks are found in the splash zone at some places. The beach is somewhat wider in the west than in the east. Sand dunes with a relati~ vely dense cover of various grasses (Gramineae) are situated 10 the rear. However. in the east the dunes have been almost destroyed for road construction. Many tourists were seen on the beach, in particular in the east. Many boats were anchoring in front of the coast. Tracks of many heavy vehicles were noted in the sand. A small amount of garbage was washed ashore. Sea grass was noted everywhere on the beach, in particular in the west. The beach is unsuitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness and tourist development.
Par. Dionysiu beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
4.9 (135) The beach extends from the harbour of Nea Mudania 10 some concrete ramps to the west of Nea Plajia. 400 15'N 23°15'E 8.5 km 15·20 m The beach consists of very fine sand and slopes gently from the sea. In the upper parts. extensive sand dunes are found with a rich vegetation of various grasses (Gramineae). In the middle of the beach there is an almost 1 km long section with shingle and large pebbles and the beach width contracts 10 some 5 m. The beach also becomes very narrow towards the western edge. The hinterland is formed by cultivated and fallow land and a pine wood (Pious sp.) is found over 1 km of the eastern coast. There is heavy use on the beache sections of Flogita and Nea Plagia. The tourist infrastructure is well-developed accordingly. However. most tourists were seen concentrated in both areas in June. but were more evenly distributed over the beach in July. Several private summer houses were under construction in the middle of the beach. A gipsy camp was located at the rear of the middle of the beach. A number of fishing boats were recorded. Only a small amount of rubbish had been washed ashore. 6-15 Kentish Plovers, 5 Mediterranean Gulls and 5 Yellow-legged Gulls were noted. Other bird species included Kestrel (1 pair),
58
Various: S.t.n. potential:
Hooppoe (3 birds) and Goldfinch. Little sea grass was seen on the beach. Sea lurtle nesting seems possible at a few places of the beach.
Nea Mudania beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
4.10 (134) The beach extends from Ihe channel (which cuts off the Kassandra peninsula) from the mainland to Nea Mudania. 40014'N 23°19'E 5.2 km 5-10 m The beach consists of very'fine sand intermixed with larger pebbles. Fine shingle sometimes forms a layer on the sand. The beach becomes increasingly narrower towards the north and is only some 2 m wide near Nea Mudania. A steep, reddish clay cliff rises immediately behind the beach. Grasses and low Mediterranean scrub grow on the sleep earth cliffs. Sand dunes are lacking. The cliffs in the south are lower and sometimes even absent. The southern edge, where a camping site is situated is intensively used by tourists. Lower numbers of tourists are also found further north. Some boats were noted on the beach and in the sea. The pollution of the beach from rubbish washed onto the beach is low to medium. A Kestrel was breeding in the cliffs above the sea and a Common Tern was fishing in front of the coast. A thick layer of sea grasses was noted on the beach. The beach is usually too narrow for sea turtle nesling.
Pyrgos north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
4.' 1 (133) The beach extends from Sani Beach hotel (ct. Sani beach) in the south to the beginning of rocky cliffs in the north. 40 0 08'N 23°19'E 3.5 km
'2 m A fine sandy beach which slopes gently from the sea. Sand dunes are missing in the extreme south, but are relatively extensive elsewhere. They extend far into the inland and their hillocks reach a height of 2 m. Pine forests (Pinus sp.), cultivated fields and a small lagoon are situated 10 the rear of the beach. A large hotel complex is situated at the southern edge of the beach and many tourists are present there. Near the centre of the beach, casual camping is rather requent in the rear pine forest and these people crowd the beach. Only two cars and a fishing boat were recorded at the northern edge of the beach, The pollution from rubbish washed ashore is medium. A pair of Kentish Plovers and c. 4 Yellow-legged Gulls were observed on the beach. c. 8 Shelducks, c. 10 Stilts, c. 20 Redshanks. several hundreds of Yellow-legged Gulls and a Common Tern (breeding) were recorded at the lagoon 10 Ihe rear.
59
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
Allhough the beach is rather narrow, sea turlle nesting may occur al some places. The area is rich in different habitats and includes a pine forest and a lagoon. The wild life is very diverse accordingly.
San; beach lD·number:
Explanation: Co·ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution:
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
4.12 (132) The beach is situated in a bay at Ak. Pyrgos. 40"06'N 23"19'E
0.6 km 15 m This is a small sandy bay between coastal rocks. It is intersected by a river mouth. The slope of the beach is medium. Some sand dunes are found above it. A welland with a small lagoon is situated near the river mouth. An extensive forest is found to the rear of the beach. Sani Beach Club is situated at the southern end of the beach, Sani Beach Hotel at the northern end. Some leisure facilities are found around the hotel. A stony jetty protrudes into the sea near the river mouth. Facilities are available for renting boats and surf boards. Mud has been removed near the river mouth. The mud near the river mouth may indicate high eUlrophication as a consequence of organic pollutants. The sea was very turbid in general. Sea grass had been washed ashore and formed a thick layer on the sandy beach at some places. The beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness. Pine forests extending almost onlo the beach. sand dunes, the mouth of a Slream and a small lagoon are several interesting habitats on a very small area. It is of high scenic value.
Ormos Kipsas beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
4.13 (131) The bay is bordered by rocky cliffs in the north and south. 40"04'N 23°2Q'E 1.0 km 5-15 m The beach is much broader in the north (up to 20 m) than in the south (5 m). Steep slopes covered by a pine forest (Pinus sp.) and 20-40 m high cliffs of red earth rise immediately behind the narrow beach in the south. Although there are still hilly pine forests behind the beach in the north, the area is much f1atler in general. A small stony jetty is found near the northern edge of the beach. The beach material is fine sand with larger pebbles in the splash zone. A small stream runs into the sea in the northern part of the beach. A camping site is situated at the northern end of the beach. In the very south there are several (private?) summer houses which can hardly be seen from the beach. The beach in front of the camping site had been leveled by bulldozers. Only a few tourists were present on the beach in June. The sea water was somewhat turbid for unknown reasons. Some pla-
60
Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
sHc litter was among the flotsam. Greenfinches, House Martins and Swallows were observed. Sea grass had been washed ashore. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Siviri beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
4.14 (130) The beach lies in fronl of the village Siviri. 40°01 'N 23°22'E 0.8 km 10 m Steep slopes and cliffs form the natural border of the beach to the north and south. The beach consists of fine sand (but a thin upper layer of fine shingle is sometimes found) and is relatively narrow and gently sloping. A narrow strip of sandy humus forms the Iransition rrom the beach 10 a road which runs parallel to the coastline. Behind that road, the houses of Siviri are situated. There are many trees (mostly Populus sp.) in the village. A concrete jetty separates the beach into a northern and a southern half. Being immediately in front of a village, the beach is extensively used by man. The northern half is used more for swimming. the southern more for anchoring boats etc. No visible pollution. Some sea grass had been washed onto the beach. The tourist development is too strong for sea turtle nesting.
Skala Phurkas beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
4.15 (129) This is the small bay where Skala Phurkas is situated. 400 00'N 23°23'E 0.8 km 15 m The bay is bordered by cliffs on both sides. The beach material is fine sand with larger pebbles and some shingle in the splash zone. Some sand dunes are found in the upper areas near the northern edge of the beach. The village of Skala Phurkas is situated at the southern end of the beach. Private houses and hotels are found even outside the village. Trees had been planted around the buildings so that they are only partly visible from the beach. A good number of boats was noled near the village and in the sea. Tourists were largely concentrated around Skala Phurkas. Some tracks of vehicles were noted in the sand. The sea water was turbid due to unknown reasons. The beach was not visibly polluted. Sea grass had been washed onlo the beach. Most parts of the beach are not suitable for sea turtle nesting due to tourist development.
61
Ak. Posidhion beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
4.16 (128)
The beach extends from the village of Posidi to the beginning of cliffs some 1 km northeast of the lighthouse. 39°58'N 23°21 'N 3.2 km 15-30 m Ak. Kassandras is another name of Ak. Posidhion. The beach width is some 15 rn, but rises uplO 40 m on the southern side of the outermost point of the peninsula. The material is a coarse sand. The slope is rather gentle and extensive sand dunes follow above the beach. The hillocks of the dunes are up 10 2 m high and become rather flal further inland. There is a richly developed Mediterranean dune vegetation. The village of Posidi with a small harbour is found in the southeastern edge of the beach. A lighthouse is situated on the peninsula and an old private house in the middle of the beach to the west of Posidi. Two camping sites (one of them belonging 10 the University of Thes· saloniki) and a military area borders the northern edge of the beach. Tourists were concentrated around the village of Posidi. There was a lot of litter on the beach, including camping gas containers and flotsam with plastics etc. A dead Yelkuan (Manx) Shearwater had been washed ashore. The area is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Molae Kalyvae beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
4.17 (127) The beach extends from the harbour jetty of Nea Skioni to the hotel Mendi south of Kalandra. 39°58'N 23°29'E 11.3 km
20 m The beach consists of fine sand with coarse sand and shingle in the splash zone. Although there is often a steep slope in the splash zone, in general it is only slightly increasing. Flat rocks are sometimes found in the splash zone and reefs in front of it. The inland is formed by coastal plains and mountain ridges. Sometimes steep slopes covered with degraded Mediterranean maquis or with gardens border the beach. The sand dunes are usually very narrow and often rudimentary. Private houses are situated on top of the slopes. Stairs lead down to the beach. Hotels are found in particular in the flatter areas. They use Ihe beach for inslallation of their sun umbrellas, deck-chairs etc. Many of the buildings are only partly visible from the beach due la good tree coverage. The beach had been leveled by bulldozers at some places. Some flotsam including plastics was noted especially in the northwestern edge of the beach. Some sea grass was recorded on the beach. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
62
Nea Skioni beach ID·number: Explanation:
4.18 (126) The beach extends from the harbour jelly of Nea Skioni 10 the first rocky projection into the sea 10 the east of it.
Co-ordinates:
39°56'N 23°33'E
Length: Beach width: Description:
3.8 km 2-6 m A very narrow stony beach. lis material is coarse sand, but large pebbles often dominate such that the sand is nol even visible. The beach becomes wider at ils western edge (upto 20 m). These are narrow sand dunes with a sparse vegetation cover. The beach lies al the fool of a steep slope which is covered by low Mediterranean scrub. The village of Nea Skioni is situated at the western end of the beach. Private summer houses are found on the hills. Only a small number of tourists was noted. in particular near Nea Skioni. Fishing boats and lracks of goats were also noted. No visible pollution. > 5 Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded. Sparse flotsam including sea grass was noted. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various:
S.t.n. potential:
63
5
Kolpos Kassandras
Toronaios Kolpos is another name of Kolpos Kassandras.
Chrusu south beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.1 (125) This beach extends from the south of Chrusu (at the place where the cliffs end) to Aj. Nikolaos.
Co-ordinates:
39°5S'N 23°43'E
Length: Beach width:
2.0 km 12 m The beach consists of shingle with coarse pebbles. U slopes gently from the sea. Hills are found to the rear of the beach. Towards the east. the beach becomes increasi,ngly narrower (2-5 rn) and cliffs of red clay rise behind it. Pines (Pinus sp.) stand on top of the cliffs. The beach can be reached through a few forest roads. Some tourists with their cars. and sheep and goats were noted on the beach. No visible pollution. but a lot of flotsam had been washed ashore. A red-rumped Swallow was noled. The beach is too narrow and too stony for sea turlle nesting.
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Chrusu beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.2 (124) The beach extends from the harbour of Chrusu in the south to rocky cliffs in the north.
C~ordinates:
39°58'N 23°41'E
length: Beach width: Description:
1.3 km 15 m The beach consists of very fine sand and slopes gently from the sea. Sand dunes are found to the rear and bushes and trees immediately behind it. A small harbour is situated at the southern edge of the beach. The beach serves as a bathing beach of a large hotel and a camping site. Wind surfers. sailors and drivers of motorboats are common in the sea. No visible pollution. A few Yellow-legged Gulls were noted. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
64
Pefkochorion east beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.3 (123) The beach extends from the harbour jetty of Pefkochorion in the west 10 the rocky spur of Ak. Glarokavos in the east.
Co·ordinates:
39°59'N 23°39'E
Length: Beach width:
5.1 km 20 m A beach of coarse grained quartz sand which slopes gently from the sea. A small lake (or lagoon) is situated behind the middle of the beach and it opens 10 the sea. Narrow sand dunes form the area above the beach in mosl places and many trees are found behind. The number of tourists on the beach was modest in the northwest and high in the southeast. Tourist boats and surf boards were noted. Casual and illegal camping is common in a pine wood of the southeastern part of the beach. and tents and caravans extend over almost 2 km of the beach. No visible pollution. Eleonora's Falcons and a few Yellow-legged Gulls were observed. The beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting. The tourist development is al a critical level.
Descdption:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Kassandra northeast beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.4 (122) This beach extends from the camping site of Kriopigi in the northwest to the jetty of Pefkochorion in the southeast.
Co-ordinates: Length; Beach width: Description:
400 01'N 23°30'E 16.1 km 10-20 m
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
This is the longest beach on Kassandra peninsula and extends over 15 km without any break. 11 consists of fine sand and larger pebbles with some shingle found only in the splash zone. Towards the southeast. flat rocks in the splash zone and reefs in the shallow water become increasingly frequent. Although it is gently sloping in general. a small step-like structure is found 2-3 m behind the splash line in some places. Narrow sand dunes, on which grasses (Gramineae) are the dominant plants. form the zone between the beach and an extensively cultivated farmland. Low Mediterranean scrub is usually found immediately behind the dunes. The beach is used by lourists over its whole length. The tourist pressure is very high in particular near the settlements. Hotels. guest-houses, restaurants etc. are found everywhere close to the beach. Tourist boats. speed boats, fishing boats and yachts were seen along the coast. Between the villages, there are many private summer houses. Waits usually separate such plots from the beach. Tracks of bulldozers were often seen on the beach and its upper sand dunes. The beach was very clean and the water clear. Some pipes which were discharging into the sea maybe sewage pipes. Yellow-legged Gulls and Swallows were noted. Several parts of the beach are suitable for sea turtle nesting.
65
Kryopiji north beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution:
Fauna; S.t.n. potential:
s.s (121) The beach extends from a large holel complex to the south of Kallilhaea in the north to rocky cliffs in the south. 4Q"OS·N 23·27'E 2.7 km 20m A fine sandy beach (intermixed with only a few larger pebbles) which slopes gently from the sea. A 100-200 m long stretch with shingle and
rocks is found near the southern end of the beach. Hills are found inland. A small wetland is situated behind the large hotel complex in the north. A tourist beach with two large holel complexes (several hundred beds each). Motor boats. tourist ships for daily visitors etc. were seen. No visible pollution. Two pipes were discharging water from the large hotels into the sea, but it seemed to be groundwater rather than sewage. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls and a Great Reed Warbler were recorded. The beach is not suitable for sea turlle nesling due to tourist development.
Aphytos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
S.6 (120) The beach extends from Aphytos in the north to a hotel beach of Kaltithea. 400 07'N 23°25'E 3.0 km 15-20 m Some 70% of the splash zone is covered by flat rocks. The remaining beach consists of One sand and slopes gently from the sea. Stony jetties are promoting into the sea. Steep hills which are covered by pine woods (Pin us sp.) are found in the hinterland. A road runs to the rear of the beach and sometimes even borders on il. Many houses, hotels. restaurants etc. are found along the shore and many tourists (including sailing boats. surf boards etc.) were present on the shore and in the sea. Some litter had been washed ashore. As there are many flat beach rocks and a rather heavy lourist development. the beach is not suitable for sea tu rile nesting.
Nea Phodaea north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
S.7 (119) The beach extends in the north from some red cliffs in the south of Nea Potidaea. to the south to rocks to the north of Nea Phokaea. 4Q"09'N 23·21 'E 6.9 km
Sm The malerial of the beach is mainly fine sand. but larger pebbles are
66
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
intermixed. and banks of coarse quartz sand are found in the splash zone. Up to 50 m high cliffs of hard. red earth rise immediately behind the beach. Small wadis which cut into the slope are covered by degraded Mediterranean maquis. Some Common Reed (Phragmites auslralis) is found at wet localities. At places where landslips have occurred. earth and rocks are found on the beach. A very narrow strip of sand dunes with sparse vegetation is sometimes situated between the foot of the cliff and the beach. There is some tourist use of the beach. but it seems that these are almost exclusively locals from nearby settlements. Tracks cif a herd of goats were noted in the sand. A military area is siluated towards the southern edge of the beach (near Nea Phodaea). The beach was much polluted from litter. It seems that it was deposited here rather than washed ashore. That would mean that the beach is mis~used for rubbish disposal. Yellow-legged Gulls and a Common Tern were noted. Kestrels were seen in the red cliffs and they may breed there. Some sea grass had been washed onto the beach. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Nea Potidaea Golden Beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description: land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.8 (118) The beach extends from the stony jetty of Nea Polidaea in the north to the jetty "red cliffs" in the south. 400 12'N 23°20'E 1.0 km 20-40 m A rather flat beach consisting of fine sand. An olive grove and the village of Nea Potidaea is situated behind the beach. The centre of Nea Potidaea lies immediately behind the beach and roads. parking facilities etc. are found here. All kinds of tourist facilities are present on and behind the beach. The olive grove is extremely polluted from litter and human excrements. The tourist development is too heavy to allow sea turtle nesting.
Aj. Mamas beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
5.9 (117) The beach extends from rocks near Jerakini in the northeast to the channel of Nea Potidaea in the southwest. 40"15'N 23'22'E
13.3 km 20 m The Vatunia River divides the beach into northern and southern halfes. The texture of the beach is fine with banks of coarse quartz sand (and even shingle at a few places) in the splash zone. Sand dunes and the rudiments of former wellands are found in the rear of the middle of the beach. Only the (northeastern and southwestern) edges of the beach are used for tourism. Tourist facilities like hotels. swimming beaches etc.
67
Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.1.n. potential:
are found there. Tracks of cars were noted in Ihe sand. Some litter on the beach had probably been left by anglers 3 Little Ringed Plover and> 20 Yellow-legged Gulls were noted. A total of 19 Kentish Plovers also included birds of the year suggesting breeding on the beach. A Conger Eel (Conger conger) had been washed onto the beach. Much sea grass had been washed ashore and formed 20-40 cm high banks. Most parts of the beach are suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Jerakinis east beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.10 (116) The beach extends in the east from the rocks which form Ihe border between this beach and beach no. 115 to a rocky out led near Jerakinis in the west.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 16'N 23°29'E
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.1.n. potential:
3.3 km 5m A very narrow beach which consists of coarse grained shingle. Fine sand is round only at a few places. The beach had occassional rocky areas. Steep cliffs follow immediately behind Ihe beach, Le. sand dunes are missing completely. The cliffs are covered by degraded Mediterranean maquis. At some places. Ihey have been leveled and lerraces have been made. Private houses (mostly summer houses) are found on the lap of the cliffs. Stairs are leading down to the beach. No visible pollution. Some Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded. The beach is loo narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Psakudia beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.11 (115) The beach extends in Ihe east from the bridge into the sea at Psakudia to rocks in the west.
Co·ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
400 16'N 23°29'E 1.0 km 10-20 m
land use:
Pollution: Various: S.1.n. potential:
The beach consists of fine sand in general. but intermixed with shingle. large pebbles and rocks are found in some places especially in the east. Here the beach width is reduced to some 10 m and the slope is steeper than anywhere else. The east is a less frequented tourist beach. Hotels and private houses are situated behind Ihe beach. but many of them are hidden by trees. Tourist and fishing boats were anchoring in front of the shore and were lying on the beach. There was no tiller on the beach. The sea water was somewhat turbid. Some sea grass had been washed ashore. Tourist development would not allow sea turtle nesting.
68
Ormylia River mouth beach IO·number: Explanation:
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
5.12 (114)
The beach extends from some rocks 1-2 km east of the Ormylia River mouth to a jetty at Psakudia. 40 0 15'N 23°32'E 7.5 km
20m The beach of fine sand is steeply sloping in the splash zone but only slowly further back. The river mouth divides the beach into two parts. The beach is much eroded 100-200 to the east of the river mouth and is only 1-2 m broad there. Tamarisks (Tamarix sp.) extend to the
splash zone. The land behind the beach is rather flat and fallow land with grasses (Gramineae). Salicornia and Tamarisks dominates. Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential:
Some simple huts with a few anglers and tourists are situated to the west of the river mouth. Tourists become increasingly frequent towards the western end of the beach. where the village of Psakudia with various tourist facilities is situated. No visible pollution. A Dice Snake (Natrix tessel/ata) was observed near the river mouth. Bird records included 3 pairs Kentish Plover. 15 Little Ringed Plovers. a Redshank. a Little Tern and> 100 Yellow-legged Gulls. Sea grass had been washed onlo the middle of the beach. Many parts of the beach are suilable for sea turtle nesting.
Bays west of Ak. Sargani ID-number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: 5.t.n. potential:
5.13(113) Five smalt bays to the west of Ak. Sargani are combined under this heading. 400 14'N 23°35'E 1.3 km (total length) 15 m The length of each of the bays varies from 200 and 300 m. They are separated from each other by rocky spurs which promote into the sea and are covered by Mediterranean scrub. The beach material is fine sand. but intermixed wilh some larger pebbles. Cultivated fields and extensively used olive groves as well as tourist establishments form the hinterland. All bays are used for tourism. A large hotel is found on the slopes above the bays. One of the bays belongs completely 10 a camping site. Fishing boats were present. No visible pollution. A pair of Little Ringed Plovers apparently bred on the beach. Small accumulations of sea grass had been washed as.hore. The beach is usually not suitable for sea turtle nesting. as it is rather narrow and the sand is relatively moist.
69
Ak. Sargani beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description: land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.14 (112) The beach extends in the north from the end of the rocky coast to the rock which forms the border to the Metamorphosis beach (no. 5.15) in the south. 400 14'N 23°36'E 0.1 km 20 m The beach consists of rather coarse material, usually of coarse grained sand. It slopes gently from the beach. The beach had apparently been reveled and enlarged for tourist purposes. A lot of sun umbrellas and deck-chairs were present. A large building (hotel?) and a tennis court is situated to the rear of the beach. Many people were on the beach. No visible pollution. The beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting. but tourist development is loo heavy.
Metamorphosis beach ID~number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
5.15 (111) The beach extends from the jetty of Metamorphosis in the east to some rocks protruding into the sea in the west. 40014'N 23°36'E 1.2 km 15 m The fine sandy beach slopes gently from the sea. A steep slope or cliffs form an upper border of the beach. The cliffs are lower in the west than in the east. Hotels and camping sites are found on top of the cliffs. Tourists were noled in particular near the eastern edge of Ihe beach. Although the general apparence of the beach is very clean, some rubbish was noted in the eastern half of the beach. A pair Kentish Plover. 5 Little Ringed Plovers and a Common Tern were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourist development has reached a critical level.
Pyrgos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
5.16 (110) The beach is separated from Aj. Jeorjios beach by a few rocks in the soulheasl. The jetty of Metamorphosis forms the northwestern border. 400 14'N 23°38'E 3.9 km 5-10 m The beach lies at the foot of c. 20 m high reddish sediment cliffs which are partly covered by pine trees (Pinus sp.). The beach itself is flat and consists of very fine sand intermixed with some larger pebbles. Some rocky spurs protrude into the beach.
70
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
Some holels are situated on lop of the cliff and the guests of these use the beach for swimming. Some fishing boats had anchorage in fronl of the coast. The sea was very clear. Some flotsam including plastics had been washed ashore. Some rubbish had been deposited on the beach. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Aj_ Jeorjios beach ID·number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
5.17 (109) This beach is situated 10 the north of Ak. Kaslro. 400 13'N 23°40'E 3.6 km
6-8 m A narrow sandy beach. Banks of coarse and fine sand form a mixture in the splash zone, but mainly fine sand is found in the upper areas.
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
The western half of the beach is narrower and has a higher proportion of shingle. A harbour is found in the centre of the beach and some stony jellies are scattered. A road runs parallel to the coast behind which camping sites are situated. Several camping sites are found behind the beach. The beach was crowded by tourists. but was less frequently used in the west. Many private summer houses are found to the rear of the western half of the beach, but many of them are hidden behind trees. The fences of these private plols often reach the edge of the beach. Tracks of vehicles were noted in the sand. Despite the intensive tourist use, only sparse liller was noted. Some heaps of rubble from construction sites were present in the west. Three Ravens were recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Kastro bay ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.18 (108) This small bay is situated immediately to the south of the rocks of Ak. Kastro. 40"12-N 23°42-E 0.4 km 20 m A gently sloping beach of fine sand which is interspersed with some pebbles. The rudiments of a former wetland and sparse dune vegetation are found immediately behind the beach. Some trees stand in a camping site. The beach is used exclusively by the guests of a camping site. Boats were lying on the beach. Some private houses are found further away from the shore. No visible pollution. The beach is unsuitable for sea turtle nesting due to lourisl acivities.
71
Ak, Kastro south bay ID-number:
5.19 (107)
Explanation:
Land use:
This is a small bay to the south of Ak. Kastro at the place where a road ends at the sea. 40"11'N 23"43'E 0.2 km 12 m The beach is limited on both sides by rocks. It consists of fine sand and a narrow strip of sand dunes is found 10 its rear. A 1 m high sandy cmt is found in the splash zone at the northern end of the beach. but otherwise it slopes gently. A small wetland with a pond (with Juncaceae around) is found in the centre of the hinterland, with an otherwise hilly landscape. Private summer houses on the southern end of the beach. The num-
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
The beach seemed to be very clean. Although being somewhat narrow. sea turtle nesting seem possible.
Co·ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
ber of tourists on the beach was moderate.
EJia - Kastron beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.20 (106) The beach lies in the middle of Elia and Kastron. 4Qol0'N 23°43'E 0.5 km 15 m A beach which consists of very fine sand and which slopes gently from the sea. A steep slope is found. however. in the splash zone at Ihe northern end. Reefs and submerged rocks are situated in front of Ihe coast. Small gardens. plantations and some natural vegetation is found between the beach and a coastal road. The beach is under heavy tourist pressure with many people using it for swimming (including a lot of sun umbrellas, deck-chairs etc. on the beach). Restaurants, guest-houses etc. are found behind the road which runs parallel to the coast. Rent-a-boat facilities (including sailing boats) are provided on the beach. A larger tourist ship lor daily visitors was anchoring in front of the beach. No visible pollution. . The beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting. as there are too many tourist installations.
Elia north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
5.21 (105) This is the northern part of the Elia beach which is separated from the southern one by rocky cliffs. 40"09'N 23"43'E 1.0 km 3-7 m This part of the Ha beach consists of coarse sand in the north, but shingle and large pebbles become increasingly dominant towards the
72
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
south. The slope of the beach is gentle. A 5-10 m high earth cliff forms Ihe upper edge of the beach. An open pine wood (Pinus sp.) is situated on lop of the cliff. Some pines were also lying on the beach. The northern beach is used for swimming, bul not the southern one. No visible pollulion. The beach is too narrow for sea lurtle nesting.
Elia south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.22 (104) The beach is bordered by rocks in the north and soulh. 40 0 08'N 23D 44'E 0.6 km Bm The beach has a fine texture wilh larger pebbles embedded into the sand. It stapes in a few steps gently from the sea. Dunes are missing. Sparse vegelation is found between Ihe beach and some houses 10 the rear. Some private summer houses are situaled behind the beach. 2 boats were noted at the coast. Some flotsam including rubbish was recorded from the beach. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Tripotamos north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
5.23 (103) This beach is Ihe northern one of two beaches situated to the wesl of Tripotamos. 4QD OrN 23D 46'E 1.0 km 20 m The beach consists 01 coarse grained quartz sand. The slope from Ihe sea is very sharp al some places, being an inclination of up 10 60% in the splash zone. A rock divides the beach into a southern and a northern part. Poppy (Papaver sp.) and fuphorbia sp. are growing in the upper parts of the beach. Pine woods (Pinus sp.) are found further inland. Some tourists were present on Ihe beach. A fenced private plot is found to Ihe rear of Ihe beach and a few fishing boats were nOled. No visible pollution. Swallows were recorded. Most parts of the beach seem suitable for sea lurtle nesling, however, the lack of sand dunes may reduce its value for turtles.
Tripotamos south beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.24 (102) This beach is the southern one of two beaches situated to the west of
73
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
Tripotamos. 40"07'N 23'46'E 1.2 km 10-20 m The beach consists of rtne sand which is mixed wilh larger pebbles. The slope from the sea is slight 10 medium. A river mouth opens in the southern one third of the beach and a stony jelly extends into the sea there. Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is found immediately behind the river mouth. A rock separates the northern quarter of the beach from the rest. Pines (Pinus sp.) dominate on the hills to the rear of the beach. A bathing beach which is comparatively less crowded. The number of tourists is lower in the north than in the soulh. 80ats are found in particular around the river mouth. A camping site extends from the river mouth to the southern limit of the beach and caravans are found in an area to the south of the rocky spur into the sea (casual camping). No visible pollution. Some 50 Stripe-necked Terrapins (Mauremys caspica) were observed in the river mouth. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting and the tourist develop· ment is too heavy.
Paradisos north beach
Co·ordinates: Length:
5.25 (101) This beach is situated north of the Paradisos beach from which it is separated by a rocky spur. 400 06'N 23°46'E 1.0 km
Beach width:
4m
Description:
A narrow stony beach which consists of fine shingle in general. but coarse in the middle. It slopes very gently from the sea. The upper edge of the beach is formed by rocks, slopes and cliffs whfch are a few metres high. On the top of ft. private houses belonging to Neos Marmaras are found. This slope is mostly covered by a dense vegeta· tion of scrub and trees. Private houses 10 the rear of the beach (see above). Medium pollution from rubbish washed ashore. medium. Much flotsam including sea grass in the north. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
ID-number: Expl~nation:
Land use: Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
Paradisos beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
5.26 (100) A small beach near Paradisos to the northwest of Neos Marmaras. 400 06'N 23°46'E 0.8 km 10 m The beach is embraced by rocky cliffs. It consists of fine sand mixed with larger pebbles. The beach is rather flat and sand dunes are mis· sing. A private plot with trees surrounded by a wall is situated behind the
74
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
beach. Hotels and restaurants are found 10 the rear of a road which runs parallel to the coast. No visible pollution. A pair of Kentish Plovers was recorded. The beach is loo narrow for sea turtle nesting. Sand dunes are mis· sing.
Neos Marmaras beach ID·number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
5.27 (99) The beach extends from the harbour of Parto Carras to a large hotel complex at Neos Marmaras. 400 0S'N 23°47'E 1.8 km 20 m The beach consists of coarse quartz sand. It slopes sharply in the splash zone, bul only gently in the upper paris. Two small streams run into the sea on the beach. Most of their water oozes away and reaches the sea underground. Some Common Reed (Phragmiles australis) is found around both of their mouths. Fallow land forms the rear at the other places. Tourist beach with installations like camping sites and restaurants more frequent in the northern half. It is supposed Ihal some leveling of the beach had taken place. No visible pollution. A Yellow-legged Gull and a Carrion Crow were recorded. The beach is physically suitable for sea turlle nesling. but the high number of tourist installations would not allow nesting.
Porta Carras beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.28 (98) The beach lies in a small bay to the southwest of Porta Carras. 400 03'N 23°47'E 0.3 km
15 m This is a small bay with a fine sandy, gently sloping beach. Dunes are missing. The beach belongs completely to a camping site (Stayros camping) and it was crowded by visitors to the camping sile. The area for swim· ming in the sea was marked by buoys. No visible pollution. As sand dunes are missing. the beach seems less suitable for sea turtle nesting. The tourist development may also reduce the beach's value for turlles.
75
Ak. Papadhia bays ID-number: Explanation:
5.29 (97) This is Ihe rocky coast la Ihe southeast of Ak. Papadhia and which has 11 small bays.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 01'N 23°51'E
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: $.1.n. potential:
2.9 km (total length) 10-20 m The length of Ihe beaches in the small bays ranges from toO-500 m. All beaches consist of coarse sand with regions of fine sand inbetween. They all slope gently from the sea. A few reefs are found in front of the coast. Caravans and tents were recorded in four of the bays. No visible pollution. C. 50 Yellow-legged Gulls and 50 Yelkuan (Manx) Shearwaters were seen on the sea and 2 Bee-eaters on the nearby hills. Some sea grass had been washed ashore on some beaches. Sorne of the bays provide suitable turtle nesting beaclles, but the lack of sand dunes and the narrowness of the beach makes nesting impossible in others.
Destenika beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.30 (96) The beach extends in the southeast from the rocks which form the border to the Toroni beach to some rocks in the northwest on which a restaurant is situated.
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
400 00'N 23°53'E
land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
1.5 km 12 m The beach slopes sharply from the sea with an incline of upto 10-20%. A steep 1 m high sand cliff is found in the northwest. The increase of the beach in the upper parts is only slight. Two small wet lands are situafed behind the northwestern corner of the beach. A strip of sand dunes with typical vegetation lies between the beach and houses etc. A camping site and several houses are situated behind the beach. Almost all buildings are hidden by trees towards the sea. Caravans and tents were recorded af the northern edge (casual camping). Simple reed-covered sunroofs and showers have been installed on the beach. Some motor boats were lying on the beach. Although we found some litter on the beach, in general it was very clean. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls. a Little Ringed Plover A Marsh Frog (Rana ridibunda) were observed. The beach seems to be suitable for sea turtle nesting.
loroni beach ID-number: Explanation:
5.31 (95) This is the beach of Toroni village and it is separated from the Deslenika beach by a small rocky coast segment.
76
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
39°59'N 23°54 'E 2.4 km 20m The beach consists of coarse sand which becomes increasingly finer towards the northern edge. Some high and steep sand cliffs are found in the splash zone. but the slope of the beach is modest in general. There is hardly any vegetation to the rear sand dunes. Bathing-beach. Private plots with some houses and huts are found behind the beach. Although the sea was turbid, there was no apparenl pollution. Swallows were observed over the beach. Despite some tourist development. the beach looks still suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Porto Koulo (Kulos) beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
5.32 (94) The harbour of Porta Koufo forms the northern border of the beach.
39°58'N 23°55'E 2.0 km 5-15 m The beach consists of very fine sand mixed with some mud. Coarse quartz sand forms an upper layer in some parts. A lagoon (with Salicorn;a-vegetation around) is found behind the southern tip of the beach. This is a tourist beach. Although there were not so many people on the beach during our survey. human tracks in the sand demonstrated that it is used by tourists over its lotal length. Some flotsam including plastics etc. was recorded. The beach is usually too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
77
6
Kolpos Agion Orous
Singilikos Kotpos is another name of Kolpos Agion Orous.
Kalamitsion beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
6.1 (93) The beach is bordered by rocky cliffs on both sides.
39"59'N 24"OO'E 0.5 km 20m The beach consists of coarse sand and has a sleep edge in the splash zone. The slope in the upper parts, however. is medium in the north and gentle in the south. Hills with a thin Mediterranean vegetation are
Land use:
Pollution:
S.t.n. potential:
found 10 the rear of the beach. Visitors to a camping site at the rear of the beach are dominating. Sun umbrellas. deck·chairs etc. are found on the beach. No visible pollution of the sea and the beach. Although the beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting. there are usually loo many visitors 10 allow nesting.
Limin Sykias south beach lD·number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.ln. potential:
6.2 (92) The beach is limited by rocks to both sides and is the soulhern one of two in the bay of Sykias. 4Qo02'N 23°59'E 1.7 km 20 m A river mouth is found near Ihe northern edge of the beach. The texture of the beach is fine in general, bUI is has some coarse sandy parts. The beach slopes in 1-2 steps rapidly. but then becomes rather flat. Some vegelation is found in the upper parts. The hinlerland is formed by hills. bUI also includes small wetlands near the northern and soulhern ends. Private plots with houses are situated behind the beach. Trees are found there. A small harbour is situated near the southern end. Some 50 tourists were scattered over the beach together with a few boats. Only sparse lilter was found. In general, Ihe beach and the sea were very clean. A Yellow-legged Gull, Kestrel and a Little Shrike were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
78
Limin Sykias north beach ID-number:
Explanation:
6.3 (91) This is the northern one of two beaches which are situated in the small bay of Sykias.
Co-ordinates: length:
40'03'N 24°00'E
Beach width:
20 m
Description:
The beach consists of fine sand with some coarser quartz sand in the upper parts. A rocky ridge divides the beach into two parts with lengths of 0.2 km and 1.0 km respectively. Two small streams run into the sea in the northern and southern part. Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is growing around their mouths. Camping sites are situated on the northern and southern parts of the beach. Tourists and boats were lying on the beach. There was no visible pollution of the beach and the sea. An Oystercatcher was present. Many parts of the beach are suitable for ::sea lurtle nesting.
land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
1.2 km
Sykias northern bays ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
6.4 (90) These are two small bays at the northern shore of Ak. Sykias. They are separated from beach no. 89 by a rocky segment.
4000S'N 23°S9'E 0.5 km 10-15 m
Both bays are separated from each other by a rocky spur. The beaches consist of fine sand and are gently sloping from Ihe sea. There are no sand dunes in the upper parts. The hinterland is formed by hills covered by Mediterranean maquis and, in less hilly areas, also by agricultural fields. The is a camping site and also casual camping occurs frequently. Many tourists were on the beach. No visible pollution. A Green Lizard (Lacerta viridis) was observed. Caravans and tents directly on the beach would not allow turtle nesting.
Sarti beach ID-number: Explanation:
6.5 (89) The limits of the beach are the village of Sarti in the north and rocky cliffs in the south.
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
40'06'N 23°S9'E 2.1 km 20 m The beach consists of fine the splash lone, but only the rear of the beach are Pleridium aquilinum. The
and coarse sand. It slopes rather sharply in slightly in the upper parts. Sand dunes to sparsely covered with vegetation including dunes become increasingly broader and
79
Land use:
Pollution: Turtle situation:
S.t.n. potential:
beller covered with vegetation towards the south. The village of Sarti is situated at the northern end of the beach. Many private houses (mostly three-storied) are close to the beach. The beach facilities include a rent-a-boat company which also offers speed-boats. The natural vegetation of the sand dunes has suffered a 101 in the north near the village. but is in a much bell er condition further south. No visible pollution. The sea and the beach were extremely clean. Fishermen slated that sea turtles are definitively not nesting on the beach. As they were familiar with marine turtles from other place!; (Umnos) the information seems to reliable. The beach is not suitable for turtle nesting due to tourist (and other) development.
Ahlada beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
6.6 (BB)
This is a small beach which lies between Ak. Rigas and Sarti. 40006'N 23°S9'E 0.5 km c. 30 m This is a small bay to the south of Ak. Rigas. I1 is limited by rocks on both sides. The texture of the beach changes gradually from coarse sand in the splash line to fine sand in the back. The slope of the beach from the sea is medium. A small strip of sand dunes follow the beach. followed immediately by rocky hills which are covered by pines and Mediterranean maquis. A road is situated on the hills immediately behind the beach. A few tents. caravans and motor boats were recorded (casual camping). A few houses were being constructed and we had the impression that a heavy tourist development is under way. The sea and the beach were without any rubbish. Some litter was seen only near tile tenlS and caravans. Some sea grass had been washed ashore. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Armenistis bays ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
6.7 (87)
Four small bays are covered under this heading. They tie to the west and east of Ak. Armenistis. The northermost is apparently without name, the others are called Zografou beach, Armenistis beach and Platanitsi beach (from north to south). 4Q010'N 23°SS'E 0.8 km, 0.4 km, 0.4 km, 0.3 km (= total length of 1.9 km) 10-20 m These are lour small bays which are embraced by steep hills and rocks. Pine forests are found there. The beaches consist of coarse sand near the splash line, but the texture becomes increasingly finer towards the rear. The slope from the sea is gentle. One camping site is situated in each bay. All were under heavy tourist pressure including showers and sunroofs direct on the beach.
80
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
The beaches were very dean without any visible pollution. Despite some tourist development, some places of the beach would still be suitable for turtle nesting.
Singos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
6.8 (86) This is a small bay to the southeast of Karydi peninsula.
40 0 11'N 23°49'E 0.8 km 8m A small bay with a narrow stony beach. The pebbles are some 10 cm in diatmeter. However, a strip of sand is found in the inland side of the beach. Sparse vegetation including , Eryngium maritimum is growing there. 1-2 dams with a height of 50-60 cm have been formed on the beach by the influence of the waves. Hills and rocks are situated behind the beach. In the middle of the beach. a small road runs parallel to the coast.A fire place indicated that there are people on the beach at night. A small illegal rubbish dump is situated beside the road which runs parallel to the coast. Very little rubbish had been washed ashore. The beach is too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Vurvuru beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: Various: S.!.n. potential:
6.9 (85) This beach is situated on the mainland to the south of the Oiaporos Island and extends from the beginning of a split of land in the west to some rocks in the east. 40°11 'N 23°47'E 3.0 k.m
2m A very narrow strip of beach which is interrupted a few times by earth cliffs. The beach principally consists of fine sand. but is muddy at a few locations. Sometimes coarse quartz sand is also found. Two small streams run into the sea on the beach. There are many private houses with gardens behind the beach. Walls often limit the plots against the sea. Several boat ramps are found on the beach in front of these plots. tn addition, there are also some restaurants and a camping site. The beach had been partly leveled by bulldozers. Algae occurred in high density in the sea and there was a fine. but awful smell of roUen things which seemed to come from the sea water. This may indicate a heavy organic pollution of the sea (sewage from the private houses?). No rubbish was seen washed ashore. A Carrion Crow was observed. A thick layer of sea grass is found at some places on the sand. The beach is too narrow: for sea turtle nesting.
81
Vurvuru north beach IO·number: Explanation:
6.10 (84)
Co-ordinates:
40"12'N 23°46'E
This is the spit of land which protrudes into the sea 10 the south of the Diaporos Island and also includes the beach on the inner side of the
lagoon.
length:
2.5 km
Beach width: Description:
3-10 m
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
This is a very narrow beach which. however. becomes increasingly broader from the north to the south. Its material is fine 10 coarse sand. The spit is covered in its interior with herbs and grasses (Gramineae). The slope of the beach is very modest. Underwater, the beach shelves rapidly. This is a well-frequented bathing-beach. A number of boals were lying on the beach or had been anchored in the sea in front of it. No visible pollution. A Carrion Crow was recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Pyrgadikia south beach III ID-number: Explanation: C~ordinates:
length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: S.l.n. potential:
6.11 (83) This is the southermosl of three bays to the south of Pyrgadikia. 40017'N 23°42'E 0.8 km
20m This is a small bay with rocky spurs protruding on both side in sea. The beach consists of shingle and is gently sloping from the sea. Fine sand is found 10 the rear of the beach. There were many tourists on Ihe beach. Small houses and huts (of fishermen and/or tourists) were scattered over the beach. Many buildings to the rear of the beach are hidden by trees. No visible pollution. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Pyrgadikia south beach 11 ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description: land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
6.12 (82) This is the middle one of three bays to the south of Pyrgadikia. 40018'N 23°42'E 0.7 km 12-15 m A small bay with rocks on both sides. The beach consists of shingle. A road. including a parking place. runs immediately behind the beach. A road runs paralel to the beach (see above). Several private (summer) houses are found behind the beach. Many people were swimming on the beach. A small amount of rubbish had been washed ashore. Pollen were seen floating as a film on the surface of the sea. The beach is loo stony for sea turtle nesting.
82
Pyrgadikia south beach I ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
6.13 (81) This is the northermosl of three bays to the south of Pyrgadikia. 400 19'N 23°42'E 0.7 km 20 m The beach consists of fine shingle, but become more sandy towards the higher parts 10 the rear. A narrow belt of sparsely vegetated sand dunes with some trees is found behind the beach. A holel with its own swimming beach (including sand which had been brought here by man) is situated near the beach. Heavy vehicles have driven on the beach and have compressed the sand. No visible pollution. Although tourism has reached a critical level, sea turtle nesting still seems possible.
Pyrgadikia north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: $.t.n. potential:
6.14(80) The beach is situated in a bay next to the north of Pyrgadikia. 400 21'N 23°43'E 1.3 km 15-20 m This is a small bay to the north of Pyrgadikia which consists of coarse shingle in the splash line, but fine sand further inland. The inclination of the beach from the sea is 5·10%. Flat reefs are found in the sea directly in front of the beach. Rocky hills are situated behind the beach. A road to the beach is being constructed and further development can be expected. At present, only a few tourists were seen. Some rubbish had been washed ashore. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Xirapotamon beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
6.15 (79) The beach extends from Trypiti in the east to a 30-40 m high rocky cliff in the west. 40 0 22'N 23°S1'E 9.2 km 15 m Fine to coarse grained sand, but with a coarse shingle in its western end. Although the mean beach width is some 1S m, it is only 5 m at each end. Hills with extensively used agricultural fields are situated behind the beach, but rocks are also found at a few places. Small wetlands are situated to the rear of the western and eastern edges of the beach. The beach is extensively used for tourism. Some caravans and tents were scattered over the beach. A few houses are situated behind the beach. Judged from tracks in the sand, vehicles drive on the beach
83
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
from time to time. The beach was very clean with no visible pollution. A Little Ringed Plover and c. 40 Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded on the beach. Other bird species included Buzzard, Alpine Swift, Redrumped Swallow, Great Reed Warbler and Black-headed Bunting. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Uranopolis east beach ID~numbe":
Explanation:
6.16 (78) The beach extends from Trypiti in the west to Uranopolis (rock to the west of the harbour) in the southeast.
Co~o,.dinates:
40°21 'N 23°57'E
Length: Beach width: Description:
5-20 m
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
4.8 km A beach which consists of fine sand. Some shingle is found in the splash line and larger pebbles are also intermixed with the sand. In the east, some large rocky spurs divide the beach into several sege~ ments with coarse shingle forming the beach material. Smaller rocks are also situated in the sea. The width of the beach does not exceed 5-10 m in its western half, but is usually some 20 m in its easlern half. Sand dunes are very narrow and almost not existent. Almost the whole beach is used for tourism. Beaches for hOlels which are siluated to the rear, boats and small jetties, some fishermen's huts and camping facilities are found here. No visible pollution. A few Yellow~legged Gulls were observed. The beach is usually too narrow for sea turtle nesting and there are usually too many tourists on the beach. The beach is of high scenic value. Rocks emerge from (he shallow sea and Mediterranean maquis extend almost onto the beach.
8.
7
Kolpos lerissou
This bay forms the northern "neck'" of the Alhos peninsula. It is limited by Ak. Elevthena in the north and Ak. Arapis in the southeast 11 has 13 beaches with a total length of . km.
Athos beach (east) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
7.1 (8)
The beach borders on the Monks' Republic of Alhos to the east. 400 23'N 24°0Q'E 3.3 km 15-20 m The beach consists of coarse-grained sand, but there are also some scallered banks of shingle. The beach slopes genlly from the sea. Sand dunes following 10 the rear of the beach are covered by typical vegetation, but also include reed (Phragmites 8ustralis). This indicates a high ground water level, apparently resulting from small wet lands behind the dunes. Alders and Mediterranean scrub are growing at the rear of the beach. There is also some extensively used farmland. Herds of goats and sheep were seen on the beach. Some caravans and tents of tourists were scaUered over the beach. The pollution of the beach from garbage washed ashore is medium. European Pond Terrapins, Stripe-necked Terrapins and Marsh Frogs were recorded in the wet land next to the beach. Yellow-legged Gutls, Cormorants, Nightingales, Black-headed Buntings and Magpies were seen during our visit. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. Extensively used farmland and wetlands with fresh water pools (where e.g. European Pond Terrapins live) form interesting habitats.
Athos beach (west) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
7.2 (7) This is the western, smaller segment of Athos beach. It is separated from the Athos east beach by a rocky spur.
40023'N 23°S8'E 1.2 km 10-15 m The beach consists of coarse-grained sand and is gently sloping from the sea. A small welland (with reeds and small drainage channels) and extensively used farmland is situated to the rear of the beach. Although there were no people on the beach at the time of our visit, fire places demonstrated us that the beach is used by (local?) people for picnics. Two fenced huts were at each ends of the beach. A fieldpath joining the beach and the farmland. There is a medium to heavy pollution of the beach from lilter washed ashore. A small illegal refuse disposal is situated next to the field-
85
Fauna: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
path. Yellow·legged Gulls were noted on the sea and Reed Warbler and Chaffinch in the hinterland. The beach is suitable for sea turlle nesting. See Athos beach (east).
lerissos southeast beach IO·number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
7.3 (9) This beach extends from the stony jetty of lerissos to the beginning of rocks in the southeast (harbour). 40 0 24'N 23°53'E 1.0 km 10 m A beach consisting of coarse-grained sand. It is gently sloping from the sea in the south. but towards the north. the slope becomes increasingly steeper and is often step-like. No vegetation present. As the beach is directly in front of lerissos. it is used for recreation by the local people. A concrete wall and/or a street separates the beach from the settlement. A small harbour forms the southeastern border. No visible pollution. The beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting due 10 local development of the village of lerissos.
lerissos main beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach widlh: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
7.4 (10) The beach extends from the jetty of lerissos to a rocky outcrop into the sea in the northwesl. 400 25'N 23°52'E 3.0 km 15-20 m A beach consisting of coase-grained sand. Immediately behind the water edge. it slopes step-like (increase of 0.3-0.8 m). Behind this it is. onty genlty sloping and the open sand gradually changes to sparsely vegetated sand dunes. In the southern half of the beach. tourist installations are situated in the upper parts of the beach. Extensively used farmland and a drained welland are found in its northern half. The tourist installations in the southern half are mostly rather simple and include sun roofs. simple huts. and showers. some bars are also found. At the time of our visit. only a few people visited the beach included some anglers. A fishing boat was on the sea. Only little garbage which had been washed ashore was seen. 2 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers and one Yellow-legged Gull were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
86
Ak. Klisouri beach (south I) ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description: Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
7.S (11) On the southern coast of Ak. Klisouri. there are three rocky spurs with sandy beaches in between. This is the soulhernmosl one. 4002S'N 23°S1'E 0.6 km 20 m A bay with coarse-grained sand. The beach slopes steeply from the sea in two steps. Hills with Mediterranean maquis form the hinterland. Tourists with a caravan were here during our visit. Only very sparsely polluted from garbage washed ashore. 2 Common Terns were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The beach with steep rocks in the splash line is of high scenic value.
Ak. Klisouri beach (south 11) ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
7.6 (12) This is the northernmost of three bays situated to the south of Ak. Klisouri. 400 25'N 23°51'E 0.3 km 30-40 m The beach consists of coarse-grained sand and slopes gently from the sea. Various grasses (Gramineae) and cultivaled fields with Fig-trees. pines etc. are found behind. Some fishing boats were lying on the beach and some anglers were seen along the shore line. The beach is heavily polluted from liller washed ashore. Yellow-legged Gulls were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The beach with some high rocks in the sand is of high scenic value.
Ak. Klisouri beach (south Ill) ID·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
7.7 (13) This is a small bay to the south of Ak. KlisourL
400 25'N 23°51 'E 1.2 km
15-20 m The beach consists of coarse-grained sand, but also includes banks of shingle. It slopes gently from the sea in the southeast. but is much steeper in the northwest. It becomes very narrow in the northwest. so Ihat Mediterranean maquis and meadows almosl extend 10 the sea. Common Reed (Phragmites austrafis) and various grasses (Grami· neae) are found to the rear of the beach. Cultivated land with Fig-trees etc. follows behind. A single holiday·house is found to the rear of the beach. Some fishing boats were lying on the beach and a herd of goats was passing the beach at the time of our visit. Tracks of dogs were found in the sand.
87
Pollution: Fauna:
S.l.n. potential:
Heavily polluted from garbage washed ashore. A Sand Viper (Vipera ammodytes) was found on the beach and escaped into the sea. Yellow-legged Gulls, Litlle Ringed Plovers. Nightingale and Great Reed Warbler were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Klisouri beach (north) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
7.8 (6)
This beach is situated at the northern fOOl of Ak. Klisouri. 40"27"N 23°50'E 0.2 km
6m A small beach which is gently sloping from the sea and consists of fine sand. Only sparse vegetation is growing to the rear parts of the beach. There are some hills behind the beach and Mediterranean maquis covers all the area. The area 10 the rear of the beach consists of two fenced plots where houses are being constructed. In between the plots. there is a road. The beach is slightly polluted from litter washed ashore. We noted two Yellow-legged Gulls on Ihe beach. Swilts. Black- headed Buntings and Corn Buntings were recorded. loo. The beach is loo narrow for sea lurtle nesting.
Stratonion - Klisouri beach I ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
7.9 (5) This is the southern most section of a beach between Stratonion and Ak. Klisouri. The northern border is formed by the mouth of a stream which separates this beach from beach 11. 400 27'N 23°49'E 2.5 km 15 m A beach which consists of fine sand and is gently sloping from the sea. Steep slopes are found only at a few places. A shingle layer on the sand is almost missing. unlike Stratonion - Klisouri beaches 11 and Ill. Roots of trees in the shallow sea demonstrate the erosion of the coastline and the dynamics of the land/water system. The hinterland consists of a welland. but is mostly of Mediterranean maquis. Some hills are found there. A fishery is found in the wet land behind the coast. A concrete canal connects it with the sea. Two private houses are close to the beach. A fishing boat and a tourist boat were seen on the sea. The beach is slightly polluted from litter washed ashore. 3 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers and several Yellow-legged Gulls were observed on the beach. Buzzard, Hobby, Black·headed Bunting, Corn Bunting and House Sparrow were other bird species observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
88
Slralonion - Klisouri beach 11 lD·number:
Explanation:
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value;
7.10 (4) This is the middle section of a beach between Slratonion and Klisouri. 11 is defined by the mouths of streams which run into the sea at ils northern and southern ends. Stratonion • Klisouri beach III borders on the northern end. beach I on the southern. 400 28'N 23°49'E 0.5 km 10 m A rather narrow beach which consists of fine sand a'nd in some places also shingle. Sand dunes and a wetland which is completely covered by a dense vegetation with < Erie>. Quercus sp. and a dense undergrowth of Common Reed (Phragmites australis) is found behind the beach. Freshwater trickles from the sand into the sea. Almost no human use. although a fishing boat was lying on the beach and. judged from their tracks. a herdsman had lead his animals over the beach. No visible pollution. Some Yellow-legged Gulls and a Ullle Ringed Plover were observed on the beach. A few Great Reed Warblers. a Cetli's Warbler and a Turtle Dove were heard from the nearby wetland. In the freshwater close to the sea, larvae of the Common Tree Frog (Hyla arboreal and the Agile Frog (Rana dalmatina) were found. Marsh Frogs (Rana ridibunda) were seen and heard. We also observed an European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis). The beach is too narrow and the sand too moi st for sea turtle nesting. The flooded forest directly to the rear of the beach is a very rare habitat in the Mediterranean.
Slratonion - Klisouri beach III ID·number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
7.11 (3) This is the northernmost section of a beach between Stratonion and Ak. Klisouri. It is limited by rocks in the north and by the mouth of a stream in the south. Stratonion - Klisouri beach II is then immediately adjacent. 40Q 29'N 23°49'E 2.5 km 12-20 m A beach which consists of fine sand and coarse-grained shingle (pebbles with a diameter up to 15 cm). Shingle often forms a layer above the fine sand. The beach is often steeply increasing from the sea and its material is often very hard (condensed): Apparently il is flooded from time to lime. Sand dunes are situated behind the beach, where a rich vegetation with Ammophila arenaria, Ma/va sp. , Halimione portulacoides, Juncus sp.• Quercus coccifera was found. Hills with woods and Mediterranean maquis form fhe hinterland. A house is situated at the northern end of the beach. Some simple huts of people who are constructing fishing boats rboatyard") are found there. loo. A few houses can also be seen from the beach in the hinterland. Fishermen were present on the sea and an angler on the beach. Tracks of dogs were found in the sand. Heavily polluted from rubbish which was washed ashore. Apart from
89
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
plastics, batteries were also found. Sea·urchins and jelly-fish were seen in the splash line. A juvenile (Balkan?) Green Lizard was noted in the sand dunes. Little Ringed Plovers were breeding on the beach (3 pairs) and Yellow-legged Gulls were flying around. Alpine Swift. Turtle Dove. Redrumped Swallow, Nightingale. Black-headed Bunting and Carrion Crow were recorded, too. The beach is suitable for sea lurtle nesting.
Slratonion south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
land use:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
7.12 (2) This is small bay which is separated from the Slralonion beach by a rocky spur. 400 30'N 23°49'E 0.3 km Some 7 m This is a small sandy bay which is separated from Slratonion beach by a rocky spur. Thp. beach is very narrow and consisls of fine sand. Its hinterland is formed by a rocky hillside which is covered by Mediterranean maquis. The beach is divided into two halves by some rocks. The beach can be reached only through a bad track over the hilts. Otherwise. an approach is possible from the sea. Four simple huts of people who were constructing fishing boats rboatyard") are found on the beach. Fishermen were seen in the sea in front of the beach. Some 25 Yellow-legged Gulls were seen around Ihe beach and Alpine Swifts were flying above it. House Martins and Red-rumped Swallows were also recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Slralonion beach ID-number: Explanation: Co--ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
7.13 (1) The beach is situated immediately in front of Ihe village of Stratonion. 400 31'N 23°49'E 0.5 km 25-30 m Beach with fine sand. A layer of shingle is found on the sand in some places. The beach is up to 35 m wide. but it becomes very narrow at its northern and southern ends. In the north. a lot of rubbish has been deposited on the beach, on which pines (Pinus sp.) and broom (Genistra sp.) grow. Some small streams run into the sea on the beach. but they all were without water al the time of our survey (June). A stony jetty is found at the southern end of the beach. The beach is directly In fronl of the village Stratonion. FisherboClts were seen on the beach and in the sea. Some restaurants. a tea garden etc. are situated along the coastline, although there is almost no tourist infrastructure. Mineral resources are being exploited in the hills to the north of the beach. An unloading jelly is found in front of the mine. Only sparse drifted rubbish on the beach. The beach is partly illumina·
90
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
fed from lights of the village and the mineral mines. Noise from the mines can be heard all over the beach. Swallows. Red-rumped Swallows. House Martins. Swifts and Greenfinches are typical breeding birds of the village. Alpine Swifts were seen above the beach. A few Yellow-legged Gulls and a Little Ringed Plover were recorded on the beach. The village of Stralonion is very close 10 the beach and the disturbance therefore lOO high to allow sea turtle nesting.
91
8
Kolpos Orfanou
Slrimonikos Kolpos is another name of Kolpos Orfanou.
Manna'; beach ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.1 (14) This beach is situated on the northern side of the Marmari peninsula. 400 34'N 23°50'E 0.7 km
8m This is a small. narrow bay with fine sand between some rocks. The beach slopes very steeply from the sea so Ihat an almost 1 m high step is formed. Behind this is an about 30 m wide area with very low, sparse vegetation. The hinterland is formed by steeply rising hills which are covered by Mediterranean maquis and pines (pinus sp.). There are a few houses alone edge. Although there were no people on the beach during our visit, some dustbins indicate a more frequent use of the beach perhaps later the season. Three fishing boats were lying on the beach. A road runs on the hills above the beach. No visible pollution. 2 Yellow-legged Gulls, a Nightingale and a Rufous Bushchat were recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Manna'; - Olympias beach I ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
8.2 (15) This is the southern most of three small bays to the southeast of Olympias. 400 34'N 23°49'E 0.1 km 10 m A small bay with fine sand. The beach is gently sloping from the sea. It is bordered to both sides by rocks. A wood of < Steineichen > Quercus sp. forms a natural border of the beach 10 its rear. Some simple huts of people constructing fishingboats are situated on the beach ('shipyard'). Some fishing boats and a few tents (casual camping) were also seen. Some 200 m in front of the shore. there is a construction for rearing mussels. 19 rows of buoys were counted. Almost no litter was seen on the beach. Cormorants and Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded in the sea in front of the beach. a Short-toed Eagle, Nightingales and House Sparrows further inland. Although being narrow and small, the beach seems principally suitable for turtle nesting.
92
Marmari - Olympias beach 11 ID-number:
Explanation:
8.3 (16) Thus is the middle one of three bays to the southeast of Olympias.
Co-ordinates:
40'34'N 23·49'E
length: Beach width: Description:
0.8 km 10-15 m A bay with a rather coarse grained sand. The slope of the beach is rather sharp. Two small streams run inlo the sea. but there was no water in them at the lime of our visit (June). The beach is without vegetation. but wooded hitts (Pinus sp.) follow immediately behind. A medium size camping site is situated at the beach. AI the time of our visit, some 20 caravans and 5 motor boats were present. A coffeehouse is situated on the rock bordering the beach. AI some places. the sand of the beach has been leveled for tourist use. Some tracks of dogs were seen in the sand. All the beach is slightly polluted from litter left by tourists and washed ashore by the waves. 2 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers were observed. The beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting due to its narrowness and the heavy tourist use.
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Marmari - Olympias beach III ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.4 (17) This beach is situated a few kilometers south of Olympias.
40 0 35'N 23°48'E 0.2 km 20·30 m Small sandy bay to the southeast of Olimbias. 11 is bordered by rocks 10 the southeast and northwest. On its southeastern side. the sand is rather fine. but it becomes increasingly coarse to the northwest. Gently sloping in the southeast. sharply sloping in the northwest. An oak wood (Quercus sp.) is situated behind the beach. A tourist Infrastructure with a pavilion, a unloading jelly etc. is found here. The rear parts of the beach have been leveled 10 improve it for tourists. Some tracks of dogs were seen in the sand. No visible pollution. A Yellow-legged Gull was seen in the sea. Despite some tourist pressure, the beach seems still suitable for turtle nesting.
Olympias beach ID-number: Explanation:
8.5 (18)
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 36'N 23°47'E 2.7 km 15 m
This beach extends from a concrete quay near Olympias village in the south to rocky cliffs in the north.
A sandy beach (the sand is fine to medium grained) which is divided
93
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
by a river mouth into two parts. In particular around the river mouth, there is a dense layer of shingle on the sand. The slope of the beach is sharp around the river mouth. but gentle otherwise. Sand dunes are almost missing. The village of Olimbias extends to the beach in the south. Otherwise. the rear of the beach includes a reedy wetland and fenced plots with houses and construction sites. Hotels. restaurants, deck~chajrs, tourist boats, jetties etc. are found in the south of the beach, bu.t such installations are almost missing further north. A concrete quay is found in the south. There is much floating wood etc. near the river mouth, but only sparse litter. Sewage pipes lead directly from the tourist installations into the sea. Green Frogs (Rana sp.) were seen. Yellow-legged Gulls were swimming in the sea and 3 pairs of Uttle Ringed Plovers were breeding on the beach. Other birds in the surrounding of the beach include Golden Oriole, Red-rumped Swallow, Nightingale, Great Tit. Great Reed Warbler, Corn Bunting, Carrion Crow, Jackdaw. Woodchat Shrike and Chaffinch. As Ihe beach is too stony and the tourist pressure too high, turtle nesting can be ruled out.
Kavkanas bay I ID-number: Explanation:
8.6(19) This is the southern one of two small bays on the mainland directly opposite Kavkanas island.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
400 37'N 23°46'E 0.1 km 15 m Small bay with coarse grained sand. The beach slopes gently from the sea. Several large rocks are imbedded into the sand. A large hotel is situated behind the beach (which was not open at the time of our survey in June). Apparently the beach is exclusively for the visitors of the hotel. There are lamps to illuminate the beach. Some boats were lying on the beach. Almost no pollution (photopollution see above). Yellow-legged Gulls were in the sea in front of the beach. Red-rumped Swallows, Nightingales and Great Reed Warblers were recorded in Ihe surroundings. A suitable nesting beach, but tourist already has reached a crilical level.
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Kavkanas bay 11 lD·number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
8.7 (20) This is the northern one of two small bays on the mainland directly opposite Kavkanas island. 400 38'N 23°46'E 0.4 km 10-15 m The beach consists of coarse shingle with pebbles upto 10 cm in diameter. Further inland, the shingle is partly replaced by sand. Only in
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Land use:
the north of the beach is coarse sand also found in the tide line. but even there bands of shingle are intermixed. Three small streams run into the sea on the beach. but they were without water in June. Sand dunes with natural vegetation are situated behind the beach. followed by wooded hillsides. Some olive trees are also found there. Two caravans and some people who came for swimming were seen at the lime of our visit.
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
The beach is somewhat polluted from litter washed ashore. 2 pairs of Lillle Ringed Plovers are breeding on the beach and Nightingales and Carrion Crow were recorded in its surrounding. The beach is mostly too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Olympia•• Slavro. beach lO·number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Various: S.l.n. potential:
8.8 (21) This beach is situated to the south of Olympias and rocky e1irts border on both sides.
40'39'N 23·45'E 2.2 km 6-15 m The beach consisls of coarse grained shingle with pebbles of 5-15 cm in diameter. Even large stones (> 50 cm in diameter) are inbetween. Rocks divide the bean into several segments. Behind the beach. humus covers the shingle. Thick Mediterranean maquis is growing there. A few caravans and tents (casual camping) and some daily visitors were noled. The beach is somewhat polluted from litter washed ashore. Banks of sea grass which reached a height of 1 m were noted in the splash zone. The beach is mostly loo narrow and loo stony for sea turtle nesting.
Stavros south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
8.9 (22) The jetty of Stavros separates this beach from Stavros north beach. 400 40'N 23°43'E
2.5 km up to 30 m Gently sloping beach which consists of fine sand. At some places. fine shingle forms a layer on the sand. The natural vegetation has been removed in order to widen the beach and some tree plantations and grasses (Gramineae) are found behind the beach now. A road runs parallel to the beach in the soulh. It is only 6 m wide there. In the north. a wood of Maples and Plane Irees (Plantanus orientalis) extends as far as the tide line. The beach is also here very narrow and very stony. too. All the beach is used for recreation. In regular intervals. showers are installed. Coffee-houses are found in particular around the wood. At the time of our survey, the beach was not very crowded. No visible pollution. 2 pairs of Litlle Ringed Plovers were breeding on the beach. One
95
Various: S.t.n. potential:
Common Toad (Buro buro) was seen. Sea grass which was washed ashore is found all along the coast line. Despite some tourist development. occassional turtle nesting would be possible.
Slavro. north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
8.10 (23) This beach extends from Ihe jetty of Stavros in Ihe soulh to a military area in the north 40"40'N 23°42'E 1.7 km 30 m A broad beach of fine sand which slopes gently from the sea. A layer of coarse grained sand or fine shingle is found in places. Several artifical hills of sand are situated above the beach (exploit ion of sand?). The natural vegetation has apparently be removed in order to gel a wider beach. A small stream is running into the sea and a small welland is situated behind its mOUlh. Small woods are found to the coastal plain in the rear of the beach. Tourists were scattered all over Ihe beach. but their tolal number was moderate (For the possible exploition of sand see above). The shallow sea was subject 10 blooming algae. A strip of 1-2 m of coastal sea water was therefore greenish. 2 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers were found breeding on the beach. AI the mouth of the brook, there was a assemblage of c. 60 Mediterranean Gulls. c. 10 8lack~headed Gulls. c. 10 Yellow-legged Gulls and 7 Stills. Red-rumpded Swallow. Cetti's Warbler, Great Reed Warbler, Black-headed Bunting and Corn Bunting were also recorded. One European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis) was observed. In the splash zone, there were thousands (or even millions?) of lady-birds (most of them still alive) and -an Empusa sp. The beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourism development is at a critical level and may avoid nesting.
Vrasna beach ID-number: Explanation:
8.11 (24) The beach extends from a mililary area near Stavros to the southern edge of the village of Asprovalta.
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
40042'N 23°42'E 5.7 km 20-25 m
Land use:
The beach consists of fine and coarse grained sand, but is mixed with shingle in places. The beach is rather plain. but slopes sharply from the sea in its western half. Sand dunes follow behind the beach and are some 20 m broad with grasses (Gramineae) and Eryngium maritimum growing on them. It is used 100% for tourism. Holels, restaurants and similar installations are found along the beach, some of them only 20 m away from the tide line. Deck-chairs. boats and surf-boards are found on Ihe beach, although there was only a moderate number of tourists at the
96
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
time of our visil (June). Some anglers were active. A 101 of tracks of cars and lorries were seen on the beach, resulting in a compacted, hard sand. Much garbage washed ashore was found, in particular in those areas which were under a somewhat lower tourist pressure. The sea was very turbid due 10 blooming algae, which may indicate eulrophication of the sea by sewage. Some 5 pairs of Ul1le Ringed Plovers and some Yellow-legged Gulls were noted on the beach. Red-rumped Swallows and House Sparrows were also seen. There are too many lourists in order 10 anow sea turtle nesting.
Asprovalta beach ID·number:
Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Descl'"iption:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.12 (25) The mouth of a stream separates this beach from the Asprovalta beach in the south. An abrupt change from sand to coarse grained shingle forms the border to the Akrojiali beach. 400 44'N 23°43'E 3.3 km 30-40 m The beach consists of fine sand, but inyermixed with banks of fine shingle. The beach is gently sloping from the sea and almost without vegetation. Many tourist installations to the rear of the beach are hidden by trees. Many tourist installations including haleIs. camping sites etc. and private holiday houses are scattered all over the beach. However. the beach was not very crowded at the time of our visil (June). People water-skiing were seen on the sea. Tracks of dogs were found in the sand. Blooming algae gave the sea a turbid, greenish apparence. This indicates etlthrophication of the sea. 4 pairs of Uttle Ringed Plovers were recorded. Although tourisl development is at a critical level, the beach might stil~ be a turtle nesting beach.
Akrojiali beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
8.13 (26) The beach begins in the south at the place where fine sand suddently changes to coarse shingle and ends at the camping site 'Achilles' in the north. 400 45'N 23°44'E 2.0km 10-20 m A segment of beach which can easily be distinguished from the neighbouring Asprovalla beach by its coarse grained shingle. The shingle continues far into the hinterland. but ;s covered 10-20 m behind the shore by a thinn humus layer and accordingly by some vegetation. The shingle apparently results from a former river bed. Farmland and some private houses are found to the rear of the beach. A large hotel is situated in an elevated position of the hills on the
97
Pollution:
hinterland. A bulldozer was removing the shingle in order 10 make the beach more attractive to visitors. Blooming algae resulting from eulrophication of the shallow sea was
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is too stony for sea turtle nesting.
nOled.
Akrojiali east beach ID-number:
Explanation:
8.14(27) This beach extends from a stony jetty at the camping site "'Achilles" of Akrojiali in the west to the beginning of a very narrow, stony beach in the east.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various:
S.t.n. potential:
400 46'N 23°46'E 3.0 km 5·40 m Beach consists of coarse grained shingle with pebbles up to 30 cm in diameter. Only at two places can fine sand be found. The eastern one is some 300 m long and 40 m wide. the western some 100 m long and 20 m wide. A few stones are mixed with the sand. An area of some l00x30 m of the beach has been leveled in order to improve its tourist quality. Many houses are very close to the beach and also a road runs close to the beach in its eastern half. The beach is only little polluted from materials washed ashore. One pair of Little Ringed Plovers and> 15 Yellow-legged Gulls were seen on the beach and some Carrion Crows at its rear. There was a lot of sea-lettuce (Ulva sp.) washed ashore. The beach is usually too stony for sea turtle nesting, but some upper parts seem suitable.
Akrojiali - Kerdylia bay IO·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.15 (28) This is a small bay about halfway between Akrojiali and Kerdyfia and is limited by rocky rubble to both sides. 400 47'N 23°4B'E 0.2 km 15 m A sandy beach situated in a small bay. The narrow beach slopes genlly from the sea and gradually changes to an olive-grove and meadows with interspersed trees. Some wooden huts are situated in the zone between the beach and the olive grove. A recreation area with restaurant etc. is only 5-10 m behind the splash line. Some fishingboats were seen in the sea and on the beach. Severallracks of dogs were found in the sand. The sea was somewhat turbid because of blooming algae (eutrophication). Almost no litter washed ashore. Yellow·legged Gulls and Utile Ringed Plovers were recorded. The beach is usually too narrow for sea turtle nesting, but nesting may occur al some places.
98
Nea Kerdylia beach ID-number:
Explanation: Ca.-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
8.16 (29) The beach is limited by rocky cliffs in the south and an area of rubble in the north.
40"47'N 23·49'E 1.0 km
Pollution:
6-8 m A very narrow (6 8 m!) beach which consists of fine. but rather wet and hard sand. A sleep cliff separates it from fallow land and extensively used farmland. The shore to the southwest of the Strimonos mouth (some 12 km) is a mixture of such sandy beaches and areas of coarse grained shingle. The road runs al a distance of some 100 m above and behind the beach. No human use of the beach itself was noted. No visible pollution.
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
A Crested Lark was on the beach. The beach is too narrow and the sand too moist for sea lurlle nesting.
land use:
4
Strimonas mouth (west bank) lD·number: Explanation:
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
8.17 (30) This beach stretches from the west side of Ihe mouth of Strominos River 10 the place where the beach suddenly becomes very narrow and coarse shingle begins. 400 47'N 23°S0'E 2.0 km 40·60 m (mean) Very fine sand which sharply slopes in the splash zone, but becomes very flat and even falls again in the upper region. No vegetation at all. Towards the north, the beach becomes increasingly narrow and a spur of only 2·3 m extends along the river mouth. Wet meadows are situated to the rear of the beach and there are also areas covered with Common Reed (Phragmites australis) in particular in the norlh. Farmland replaces the welland in the south. Some huts of fishermen are situated in the river mouth and a few anglers were seen on the shore. Little garbage was recorded on the beach. Some European Pond Terrapins (Emys orbicularis) together with some Marsh Frogs (Rana ridibunda) were recorded in the river mouth and some tracks of Tortoises (Testudo sp.) in the sand. 1 Grey Heron, 5 Little Bitterns. 1 Kentish Ployer, 1 Oystercatcher, c. 80 Common Terns. c. 40 Litlle Terns. c. 200 Yellow-legged Gulls, 2 Crested Larks, at least 2 Great Reed Warblers, 1 Corn Bunting and 1 Carrion Crow were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The area has a very rich bird life.
99
Strimonas mouth (east bank) lO·number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
Various: S.l.n. potential: Conserv. value:
8.18 (31) The beach is limited by stony jetties in the northwest and southeast. 400 47'N 23°52'E 1.2 km 30 m A broad sandy beach. Although the main material is fine sand. some fine shingle is sometimes found as a layer on the sand (mostly in the splash zone). No vegetal ion. Fallow land and wetlands are situated 10 the rear of the beach. Some depressions in the wetlands are apparently man-made and have been created when the jetties were constructed. A lagoon is found behind this beach and extends as far as the rear of Tuzla beach. Sea grass had been washed ashore al some places and has been covered by fine sand. Some houses of fishermen are situated to Ihe rear of the beach. Tracks of cars and of a herd of goals were noted in the sand. No bathing people were noted on 12.6.91, but there were a few on 23.7.91. Almost no garbage on the beach. Some 10 pairs of Little Terns were breeding on the beach (colony with nests containing eggs found). In addition. a pair of Little Ringed Plovers, 2 pairs of Kentish Plovers breed here and some 100 Yellow-leg· ged Gulls and 2 Mediterranean Gulls were seen. A dead Montpellier Snake (Ma/p%n monspessu/anus) was found. On 23.7.91. we also visited the lagoon: 12 Ullle Egrets, at least 10 Kentish Plovers. at least 10 Little Ringed Plovers. a Green Sandpiper, at least 6 Stills. at least 5 Avocets. a Redshank, a Black-tailed Godwil. 60-70 Little Terns. a juvenile Shelduck. c. 50 Mediterranean Gulls (ad. + juv.), Yellow-legged Gulls and Swallows were recorded. Large amounts of sea grass had been washed onto the shore. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The beach has a rich bird life and includes several threatened species. A lagoon to the rear is in particular important.
Tuzla beach ID-number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
8.19 (32) The beach extends from the eastern jetty near the Strimonas mouth to the edge of the village of Tuzla. 400 46'N 23°53'E 3.0 km 1().20 m This beach consists of fine sand. but intermixed with a few larger pebbles. Rather flat sand dunes with typical vegetation are situated behind the beach. At the rear of the dunes. a lagoon and surrounding fallow land is found 'hear the Stramonias mouth. The fallow land is more and more replaced by farmland towards Tuzla village. A few houses are situated to the rear of the sand dunes in the middle of rhe beach. Only very few tourists (including two anglers and some boats) were seen during our first visit on 12.6.91, but rhe beach around Tuzla was crowded on 23.7.91. Even Ihe areas further away from Tuzla (towards the river mouth) were still under moderate tourist use. Tracks of cars were seen in the sand on both visits. The beach was rather clean without any visible pollution.
100
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
6 pairs of Utile Ringed Plovers and c. 30 Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded on 12.6.91 and 2 Little Ringed Plovers. 2 Kentish Plovers. c. 20 Yellow-legged Gulls and 1 Mediterranean Gull on 23.7.91. Swallows. Red-rumped Swallows, Crested Larks, a Tawny Pipit, Chaffinch and Hause Sparrow were seen, too. One dead Spur~thighed Tortoise (Testudo graeca) was found on Ihe beach and the tracks of another in the sand. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The beach borders to the moulh of Strimonas River and plays an important role to buffer those areas.
Kariani west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
8.20 (33) The beach extends from Tuzla (camping site) in the west to a small settlement directly 10 the south of Kariani in the east. 40Q 45'N 23Q 56'E 6.6 km 10-30 m The beach consists of fine sand. but banks of fine and coarse grained shingle are found from time to time, in particular in Ihe splash zone. Usually the beach slopes gently from the sea. Extensive and extremely flat sand dunes follow behind the beach and extend up 10 100 m inland. Submerged vegetation is found in Ihe sea in the eastern half of the beach. The beach is completely used by tourists near Tuzla. but only tracks of some cars and goats were found further east. The beach is very clean and the sea very clear. There is no visible pollution. One Spur Thighted Tortoise (Testudo graeca) was seen. 10 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers. Kentish Plovers and Yellow-legged Gulls were on the beach. Other bird species included Calandra Lark. Red-rumped Swallow, Olivaceous Warbler and Corn Bunting. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesling.
Kariani east beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
8.21 (34) The beach extends from a small settlement directly to the south of Kariani 10 some rocks in the east. 40 Q 44'N 24 Q OO'E 5.1 km 8m A narrow sandy beach. Many pebbles are intermixed with the fine sand and at some places, banks of shingle are also found. It is rather steeply sloping from the sea and after some 8 m a sharp cliff is found upon which a dense vegetation of grasses (Gramineae) grows. A large gravel pit is situated behind the eastern half of the beach. Here. all the area consists of shingle which was apparently a former river mouth. Many holiday houses including some being constructed al the moment are scattered over the shore. However, in total, a rather
101
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
small portion of the coastline has been closed by such buildings. A large hotel complex exists in the cetre of the beach (For the exploit ion or gravel. see above). No visible pollution. A Green Toad (Bufo viridis), some Marsh Frogs (Rana ridibunda) and a dead European Glass Lizard (Ophisaurus apodus) were seen on the shore. S pairs Little Ringed Plover. 44 Ye How- legged Gulls. some Crested Larks. a Short-toed Lark. a Wheat ear and a Rufous Bushchat were noled. too. Although the beach is sometimes very narrow and tourist development very strong, there seem to be several parts of the beach sui· table for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Apolonias (bay I) fD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
8.22 (35) This is the western one of three bays on Ak. Apolonias. 400 43'N 24°03'E 0.5 km 15 m A beach which consists of fine sand. but with an upper layer of shingle. The material of the beach is relatively wet and therefore rather hard. The slope rrom the sea is modest. In its eastern half, a steep cliff is found behind the beach. Mediterranean maquis and extensively used olive groves extend to the beach. No human use. No boats. anglers etc. seen, only some human tracks in the sand. No visible pollution The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Apolonias (bay 11) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.23 (36) This is the middle one of three bays on Ak. Apolonias. 40 0 43'N 24°04'E 0.6 km 15 m A small bay of fine sand with a thick upper layer of shingle. The material is very hard. There is also a sand dune of drift-sand in the west. A steep step-like slope separates the beach inland in the east. Apart from some tracks of humans and cows, no visible human use. No pollution visible. A pair of Little Ringed Plover, some Yellow-legged Gulls and a Nightingale were recorded. The beach material is loo compact and too moist for sea turtle nesting.
'02
Ak, Apolonias (bay Ill) ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
8.24 (37) This is the easlern one of three bays at Ak. Apolonias. 40"43'N 24'05'E 1.5 km 10-20 m The beach consists of fine sand. but intermixed with many large pebbles. At some places they even form an upper layer on the sand. The beach is separated into two halves by a flat. and 20 m broad rock. Some smaller beach rocks are also found in the splash zone of the eastern half. The eastern half of the beach is narrower (10 m) than the western (up 10 20 m) and is therefore also flooded from time to time by the sea. A 1.5 m high cliff is situated behind the beach. Hills are covered with Mediterranean maquis are situated behind the beach. There were some local tourists in the eastern half of the beach. Simple huts are also found there. No visible pollution. Red-rumped Swallow. Nightingale. Black-headed Bunting and House Sparrow were recorded. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Margara River mouth (west bank) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
8.25 (38) This is a small bay which is situated direclly 10 the west of the mouth of the Margara River. 40 0 43'N 24°0S'E 0.8 km 25 m A ralher broad sandy beach. The texture of the beach is dominated by pebbles which are intermixed with the sand in particular in and near the splash zone. About half of the coast line is covered by flat beach rocks. Very high sand dune~ follow in the rear of the beach. They are covered by dense vegetation including Arbutus sp. and Cistus sp. A few people were bathing. Only very little garbage which had been washed ashore. A Hobby, a Kestrel and Nightingales were observed at the rear of the beach. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
103
9
Kavala region
Simvolo (cf. beach no. 9.2.40 - 9.7.45) is the name of the mountain ridge which runs parallel 10 the coast.
Margara River mouth (east bank) ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
9.1 (39) This is a small bay to the east of Margara River mouth. It lies at the foot of a hill on whose top an ancient tower is situated. Rocky cliffs border the beach to the west and east. 400 44'N 24°08'E 1.0 km 60 m
A very broad and gently sloping beach. Flat beach rock is found over some 60% of the coast line. In the other parts, the beach rock is replaced by coarse grained shingle. Fine sand begins only some 5-6
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
m behind the splash line. Hills are situated at the rear of the beach. They are covered by Mediterranean maquis and the main road runs over them. A car track also runs parallel and close to the beach. Several tents and caravans were scattered over the beach. Only very sparse litter was seen. Some tracks of dogs were found in the sand. Nightingale and Black-headed Buntings were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, but disturbance by tou. rists may be critical.
Simvolo beach I ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Turtle situation: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.2 (40)
The beach is situated at the eastern foot of the hill with the ancient tower. Rocks in the sea limit the beach to the east. 40045'N 24°09'E 2.6 km
10-15 m The beach consists of fine sand, but intermixed with larger pebbles. The incline from the sea is 5-10%, but less al bolh ends. A cliff some metres high separates Ihe beach inland. There, a mountainous area is found with extensively used farmland and a few houses. Only very few tourists including two boats were seen on the beach. A few tracks of cars were seen in Ihe sand. No visible pollution. A local tourist from Thessafoniki who owns one of the houses told us that he once saw sea turtle when he was fishing in Ihe sea. A yellow~legged Gull and a Carrion Crow were recorded. Th~ beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting, because it is'relatively narrow.
'04
Simvolo beach 11 ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
9.3 (41) The beach is limited by a rock in the sea in the west and by a river mouth in the east (this river arises near Folio). 40046'N 24°11'E 4.8 km 10 m Gently sloping beach consisting of fine sand. Shingle banks are found at some places in the splash zone. in particular near the river mouth. The border of the beach inland is formed by a 2 m high cliff which has been prOlected in the west against further erosion by large rocks. On
land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
top of the cliff, fallow land. wine yards. Mediterranean maquis etc. begin. A handful of tourists (including anglers) were present on the beach. Houses are found further inland, especially in the eastern half of the beach. Only sparse litter had been washed ashore. 1 pair (+ 1 individual) of Little Ringed Plover. 2 Yellow- legged Gulls and House Sparrows were recorded. Sea grass had been washed onto the shore. Although the beach is usually rather narrow and bordered by slopes to the rear. it is a potential turtle nesting beach.
Simvolo beach III ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use; Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.4 (42) This unit consists of two small bays between rocky cliffs. 40 0 47'N 24°13'E 0.3 and 0.5 km 20 m Bolh beaches are close to each other and are only separated by a rocky spur into the sea where the beach is only 1-2 m wide. The material of the beaches is a very loose, coarse quartz sand with large pebbels and rocks embedded especially near its edges. To the rear of the eastern bay, a rather steep hill rises which is covered by loose Mediterranean maquis. A farm with garden etc. lies at the foot of the hill. To the rear of the western bay, the slopes start immediately at the beach. The hills have been afforested with pines (Pinus sp.). A farm is situated at the rear of the eastern beach (see above), No apparent pollution. A male Fisch's Wheatear was observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Simvolo beach IV ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
9.5 (43) The beach is limited by rocky outcrops on both sides. 400 48'N 24°15'E 1.3 km 60 m
105
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
A very broad beach which consists of loose, rather coarse quartz sand. 11 is rather flat near to the sea, but after a few metres, it slopes rather steeply. The beach is narrowed by rocks which project into the sea at both ends. The inland is formed by hills over which the main road also runs. There are three relatively new (already working?) hotels in the eastern edge of the beach. A number of tents are scattered over the beach. They are mostly used by anglers who crowd the beach especially in the evening. Only very little garbage. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourist development is reaching a critical level.
Simvolo beach V lO·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use: Pollution: Fauna: Sol.n. potential:
9.6 (44)
This beach unit comprises three small bays which are separated from each other by rocks. 40 0 48'N 24°16'E 1.2 km (total length) 1S.24 m Coarse grained sand which changes to shingle to the rear parts. Mountainous area behind the beach. Hotel, recreation centres and reed huts are situated on the beach or to its rear. Only moderate use by bathing people. Somewhat polluted by liner. A pair of Little Ringed Plover. All bays are too stony for sea turtle nesting and the tourist pressure is too high.
Simvolo beach VI ID-number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
9.7 (45) The beach is separated from the Simvolo beach V by a rocky spur. Steep rocky cliffs form the eastern border. 400 49'N 24°16'E 2.0 km
15 m The beach consists of coarse grained sand which is intermixed with shingle. There is an up to 0.5 m high accumulation of shingle in the splash zone. Some reefs are found in the sea in front of the western edge of the beach. At the foot of the steep slopes which form the inland of the beach, there are regular Eryngium maritimum and various grasses (Gramineae). The eastern half of the beach becomes narrower. Some simple huts, a few tourists and an angler were noted. No visible pollution. 5 pairs of Utile Ringed Plovers. Much sea grass has been washed ashore and is accumulated in banks of upto 0.4 m high in the eastern half of the beach. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
106
Ak. Vrasidhas beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various:
S.t.n. potential:
9.8 (46) This beach is situated to the southwest of Vrasidhas peninsula.
40"49'N 24°18'E 1.2 km 2ll-30 m The beach is subdivided by rocks into four smaller beaches with a length of some 600 m each. They are a mosaic of fine sand and shingle. the shingle often forming an upper layer on the sand. Some rocks are embedded in the beach. About 100 m broad sand dunes are found 10 the rear of the eastern half of the beach and are not yel affected by human activity. They reach a height of 2-3 m and are partly covered by low scrub (Mediterranean maquis). The western edge of the beach is used for tourism (restaurant, boats, anglers). Some simple huts are found in Ihe middle of the beach at the border with the sand dunes. Tracks of cars and dogs were seen in the sand. Apart from some plastics washed onlo the western beach, no other pollution was apparent Tracks of lortoises (Testudo sp.) were found on the beach. Bird species recorded include Utile Ringed Plover (1), Yellow-legged Gull, Cuckoo, Corn Bunting and Carrion Crow. A mussel bank was seen on the shore. Sea grass had been washed onlo the eastern beach. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Ormos Elevtheron beach ID-number: Explanation: Co~ordinates:
Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.9 (47) This is the beach directly in front of Nea Peramos. It is the only beach in the bay of Elevtheron. 400 50'N 24°18'E 2.9 km 6·16 m The beach consists of fine shingle in the splash zone, but towards Ihe rear, it gradulally changes 10 fine sand. Some small streams were running into the sea on the beach, but only one still had water. The beach is completely used for tourism. A row of mostly private houses with 3 storey follow directly behind the beach. In addition, there are also restaurants, a swimming establishment, a camping site etc. Many boats (tourist boats and fishing boats) were lying on the beach. It is completely covered by tracks of humans, cars, dogs etc. Despite the intensive tourist use. no pollution was visible. N',ghttngale, Greenfinch and House Sparrow were recanted in the village. The beach is unsuitable for sea turtle nesting, as it is situated directly in front of a town.
107
Nea Iraklitsa beach IO·number: Explanation:
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
9.10 (48) This beach is to the north of Nea Iraklitsa
400 52'N 24°19'E 2.5 km
15 m A gently sloping beach of fine sand which is interspersed with banks of shingle. The sand in the eastern hair is more coarse than in the western half. Sand dunes follow behind the beach. A small bay is separated from the main beach by houses of the village Nea Iraklitsa in the south. The beach there is only 5-10 m broad. The village Nea Iraklitsa is situated in the southern edge of the beach. A small harbour for fishing boats is situated there and mostly private house cover an important portion of the coast line in the west. Pedal boats are available for rent and a lol of coffee-houses are found along the beach promenade. Hotels and private houses are also found at the eastern edge of the beach, whereas there are still sections without buildings to the centre. The eastern end of the beach is accordingly under heavy tourist pressure (deck-chairs, sun-umbrellas etc. on the beach). Two new pipes for sewage which were seen leading directly into the sea at the eastern edge of the beach. Fan mussels (Pinna nobilis) were found on the beach. They apparently were caughi by fishermen in their offshore~nets and thrown away. A dead Greed Toad (Sura viridis) was seen at the rear of the beach (traffic victim), where White Wagtails were also present. Large parts of the beach are suitable for turtle nesting, whilst the tourist pressure is apparently too high at the other places.
Palaio Tsiflikio beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.11(49) A bay to the north of Nea lraklitsa beach. Palaio Tsiflikio is situated in the northern edge. 400 54'N 24°2Q'E 1.1 km 10-20 m Although the beach consists of fine sand. large pebbles with a diameter up to 10 cm are also found. The slope from the sea is rather irregular, but sharp inclinations dominate. Private plots with gardens etc. have almost completely destroyed the natural vegetation of the sand dunes. In the northern half of the beach, a small stream runs into the sea, but it was almost dry in June. There are many private holiday houses with gardens to the rear of the beach. The frequency of bathing people was modesl in June. Some garbage had been washed ashore and was sca"ered over the beach. In the sea, we noted blooming algae, indicating eutrophication. House Martins were noted. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
'.8 Kavala south bays I ID-number:
9.12 (50)
Explanation:
Four small bays southwest of Kavala and east of Palaio Tsiflikio. They
Co-ordinates:
are separated from each other by rocks. 400 5S'N 24°22'E
length: Beach width: Description: Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.l.n. potential:
0.5 km total length (0.1. 0.2. 0.1 and 0.1 km from the west to the east) 5-15 m Four small bays of fine sand. Private holiday houses are situated la the rear of the beaches. All· hough we noted only a few people on the beach, there were many tracks in Ihe sand indicating that it is crowded from time to lime. Utile to modest pollution from litter washed ashore. Flowering algae were noted in the sea indicating eutrophicalion probably because of the input of pollutants. . 4 Common ierns and House Martins were recorded. The touriSI pressure is too high in some bays for sea turtle nesting. Some of the beaches are also too narrow. Nesting seems possible only on one of these beaches.
Kavala south bay 11 ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.13 (51) A small bay to the south of Kavala. 400 55'N 24°23'E 0.4 km 10 m A small bay which is surrounded by rocks. The beach is rather steeply sloping and consists of coarse quartz sand. A camping site with many trees and scrub follows immediately behind the beach. The beach is almost exclusively used by the guests of the camping site and a neighbouring restaurant. No visible pollution. 2 Common Terns were noled. There are too many people on the beach whose presence would not allow sea turtle nesting.
Kavala west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
9.14 (52) This beach is at the western edge of the town of Kavala within the township. 400 56'N 24°24'E 0.4 km
15-25 m The beach consists of fine sand, but is interspersed with larger pebbles. The slope from the sea is modest in the west, but rather sharp in the east. This is one of the two main bathing beaches of Kavala and is accordingly under 100% tourist use. Much of the area is gaken up by a public swimming establishment, but there are also some private hou-
t09
Pollution: S.t.o. potential:
ses and a small harbour (with a few boats) in the east. Changing huts. restaurants. play apparatus etc. govern the general appearence. Bull dozers have leveled the beach and the sand is therefore rather hard and condensed. Three sewage pipes flow directly into the sea. The sea was turbid. but no blooming algae were noted. There are loo many people more or less continuous present on the beach 10 allow sea turtle nesting (suburbs of Kavala). The beach is also mostly loo narrow.
Kavala east beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
9.15 (53) This beach is to the east of the cenler of Kavala and is still within the township. 40"57"N 24°2j;'E 1.9 km 18 m Fine sand all along the beach. Sometimes banks of shingle are embedded in the splash zone. The mouths of two small sleams (which were without water al the time of our survey June) are situated on the beach. Restaurants and bars dominate in the western half of the beach. with factory areas in the eastern half. The beach was crowded by tourists. Only little Iilter on the beach. 2 Little Egrets were seen fishing in the sea. Being situated at the edge of the town of Kavala, the tourist pressure is too high for sea turtle nesting.
Nea Karvali west beach ID-number: Explanation:
9.16 (54) This beach extends from a hill west of Nea Karvali to a wooden bridge into the sea.
Co·ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
400 57'N 24°31'E
land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
1.2 km
10-15 m The material of the beach is fine sand intermixed with larger pebbles. The beach slopes steeply in the tide zone, but is ralher flat further back. A bank of shingle is found in the eastern edge. An area of low grasses (Gramineae) separates the beach from a line of houses. Private houses, restaurants. coffee-houses and 3 hotels (still under construclion) are situated at the rear of the beach. Anglers were seen along the sea. Slightly polluted from drift garbage on the shore. in particular at the western edge. 1 Litlle Egrel was seen. The beach is nol suitable for sea turtle nesting, being loo close 10 the lawn of Kavala (many visilors).
•
110
Nea Karvali east beach ID-number:
Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution;
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
9.17 (55) This beach extends from a wooden bridge into the sea within Nea Karvali 10 an oil treatment plant 10 the east of the settlement. 400 57'N 24°32'E 1.7 km 15-30 m A gently sloping beach which consists of fine sand. Two small streams run into the sea via the shore. Further inland, sand dunes covered with grasses (Gramineae) are found in the north·western area. Industrial area is found in the south-easl. Holiday houses belonging to Nea Karvali are situated in the western edge of the beach. and there is a large oil plant fed by an off-shore
station on the eastern end of the beach. Only two people were swimming in the sea at the time of our survey. Both brooks are visibly polluted to different degrees: The pollution of the fast-running brook is moderate, whereas the other's colour is dark and its smell awful. Beside the stream. an uncontrolled garbage deposition is found. Among many plastics. old car tyres and other 'classical' garbage, there are barrels of old oil. Several of them leaking and the oil pours out, actually forming a small pond! Other tubes contain chemicals like hydrogensulphates and part of these are leaking, too. The poisonous. bright yellow chemicals are lying unprotected on the ground. The beach and the sea itself is influenced by the enormous pollution from the rear: A thin film of oil was seen on the surface of the sea and on the beach. In addition, the beach is somewhat polluted from garbage wash~d ashore. A large flock of Yellow-legged Gulls (c. 250 on 14.6 and c. 300 on 8.7.91) was observed around the brook mouths. Litlle Ringed Plovers (1 pair) and Kentish Plovers (3 pairs) were found to breed on the shore. A Short-toed Lark was heard on the sand dunes. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. but it is very polluted. The beach forms the border to the wetlands of the Nestos delta and should be protected as buffer zone.
111
1a_I__N~_~_~_S_d_~ita
1__
-----.J1
Nestos delta west beach ID-number: Explanation: COMordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
Turtle situation:
Various:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
10.1 (56) The beach extends from the lighthouse in the southwest of Agiasma to the pipeline Uetly) of the petrol plant near Nea Karvali. 40 0 54'N 24°35'E 12.9 km 6-16 m The beach consists of very fine sand. Coarse grained sand and a few pebbles are found only at a few places. The width of the beach varies greatly. In Us narrower places. the incline from the sea is considerable. whereas the beach only slopes gently at places where it is more than 10 m broad. Sand dunes with a dense cOller of Mediterranean vegetation follow immediately behind the beach. Several lagoons, a channel (in the central part), fallow and agricultural land form the rear of the beach. The lagoons have some outflows into the sea via the beach. Trees are found in and around a human settlement at the centre of the beach. There are some fishermen"s huts around each outflow of the lagoons into the sea. A small settlement (fishermen's houses and holiday houses) is found in the central part of the beach. A farm road runs parallel to the beach to its northern side. Some fishermen's boats, tracks of cars and dogs were seen in the sand. The beach seemed to be very clean. Some 3-4 pairs of Little Ringed Plovers, less than 15 pairs of Kentish Plovers and 2-10 pairs of Oystercatchers were found breeding on the beach. There was a small colony of Sand Martins at the outflow of a lagoon. Terns (Common Tern, Litlle Tern), egrets and herons (Purple Heron, Grey Heron, Litlle Egret), gulls (Mediterranean Gull, Black-headed Gull, Yellow-legged Gull), waders (Redshank, Red-winged Pratincole) were observed at the edge from the lagoons to the beach. Large numbers of crabs are living in the brackish water of the lagoons' outflow into the sea. Shells of Fan Mussels (Pinna nobifis) were seen on the shore. We assume that they had been thrown away by fishermen who had caught them in their offshore nets. A young Loggerhead Turtle was found in the centre of the beach washed ashore on 8.7.1991. Ifs carapace length was 22 cm (curved length). Water plants were scattered all over the beach. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, although some parts are too narrow. The area which includes lagoons and salt marshes is an internationally recognized important bird area.
112
Ak" Ammodhis beach ID-number. Explanation:
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
S.t.o. potential: Conserv. value:
10.2 (57) This is a beach segment close to the lighthouse to the southwest of Agiasma. A road runs parallel to the beach. 40"52"N 24°38"e 1.3 km 5-25 m A gently sloping beach which consists of fine sand. There is a 100 m long cliff at its northern corner. The inner edge of the beach is formed by large rocks which had been brought here by man for road construction. A lighlhouse and a house are found to the rear of the beach. The beach is used as a sand pit and an excavator was seen actively exploiting the sand of the dunes. There were tracks of dogs in the sand. Cartridge cases found in the sand indicate that il is an important hunting area in winter. In general, the beach looked very clean. Only in the northwestern edge had some liller been washed ashore. A Hermann's Tortoise (Testudo hermanni) and many tracks probably of this species were seen. Bird observations include Stone Curlew, Oystercatcher. Spur·winged Plover. Kentish Plover, Little Tern and Common Tern. The tip of the spit is suitable for sea turtle nesting. Being a part of the Nestos delta, the beach and a lagoon to its rear (where many rare bird species life) need strong protection. The only European breeding site of the Spur·winged Plover is situated at the rear lagoon.
Keramoti west beach ID·number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
10.3 (58) This beach extends from Keramoti to the beginning of Ak. Ammodhis beach. 400 52'N 24°40'E 5.5 km
Gm A very narrow sandy beach with a dense cover of vegetation immediately behind it. The rear usually consists of wetlands and extensively used farmland. The beach is intersected by outflows of lagoons into the sea and is much eroded by the sea. At some places even roots of the Common Reed (Phragmites auslralis) are found in the shallow sea. At other places. the layer of humus has broken down forming a steep cliff. A small pine wood is found at the eastern end of the beach near Keramoti. Although the beach is not used for lourism or any other economic purpose, a 101 of human tracks was found in the sand. They probably originated from fishermen being active at night. Some Iracks of trac· lors, dogs and goats were seen, too. In the sea in fronl of the beach, there is a large installation for rearing Mediterranean Mussels (MyiiIus galloprovincialis). Big plastic tubs are used to attach the mussels and some of these had been washed ashore. Only some litter was found washed ashore during our first survey (13.6.91), but much more at a later visit (8.7.91). A Spur-thighled Tortoise (Tesludo graeca) was observed on the
113
Various:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
beach. Observations of birds included Kentish Plovers (4-5 pairs). Little Ringed Plovers (up to 4). Common Sandpipers (10 inds.). Oystercatchers (2-9 inds.). a Stone Curlew, Yellow-legged Gulls (tens). Common Terns (20-30), Liltle Terns (2 inds.) and Sandwich Terns (2 inds.). Little Egrets, Night Herons, a Purple Heron were recorded 10 the rear of the beach. A colony of Grey Herons is situated in the small wood near Keramoti. Sand Martins were found breeding in a sand bank at a connection of one of the wetlands with the sea (colony of 50-100 pairs). Apparently Bee-ealers also bred there. Some sea grass was seen washed ashore during our firsl survey (13.6.91). but a lot more during another survey a month later (6.7.91). The sea grass, often mixed with sand, formed an upto 60 cm high wall along the shore. Mosl parIs of the beach are too narrow for sea turlle nesting. The beach belongs to the wet land syslem of the Nestos delta. which is an internationally recognized important bird area.
Keramoti east beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Turtle situation: Fauna:
10.4 (59) This beach extends from the bay of Keramoti in the west to the mouth of Ihe Nestos River in Ihe east. 40°51 'N 24°46'E 9.0 km 2-50 m A beach which consists of fine sand and gently slopes from the sea. Two channels run into the sea between the Nestos River and KeramolL Some parts of the beach have been strongly washed out by Ihe sea. It is very narrow and steeply sloping al such places. The erosion is more prominent in the east near 10 the Nestos River mouth Ihan in Ihe west. Tamariscs (Tamarix sp.) and the remains of roots of marsh vegetation are found in the splash zone. Sand dunes are found behind the beach. however, the original vegetation has been destroyed in some western parts due 10 ils use as a tourist beach. Some small lagoons and brackish pools are situated to the west of the Nestos River mouth and some sand banks lie in front of the coast line there. The beach reaches its maximum width of c. 50 m here. The western most 2-3 km of the beach are under heavy tourist pressure. It is used as swimming beach including camping facilities, restaurants etc. The density of tourist establishments reduces gradually from the wesl to Ihe east. Several fishing boats were seen in particular around the Nestos River mouth, wilh anglers to the east of Keramoti. Tracks of humans and vehicles were seen all over the beach, but decreasing 10 the east. Almost no rubbish was seen on the beach. Close to the river moulh, there was some flotsam like trees, branches etc.• but only little garbage. A fisherman reported Ihat sea turtles were nesting here some 30 years ago. A Spur-Ihighled Tortoise (Testudo graeca), a Dice Snake (Natrix tesse/lata) and a Large Whip Snake (Coluber caspius) were recorded. Birds included Little Egret (4), Grey Heron (1), Kentish Plover (6), Little Ringed Plover (probably 8 pairs on 14.6.91. but only 2 inds. on 13.7.91). Common Sandpipers (c. 25 on 13.7.91). Oystercatcher (6). Curlew (1). Spur-winged Plover (1), Stone Curlew (1). Redshank (>25),
114
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
Yellow-legged Gull and Common Tern (8). The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The Nestos delta to which this beach belongs, is an internationally important bird area.
Nestos River mouth (east bank) ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
10.5 (60) The beach extends from Ihe Nestos River mouth in the southwest to the mouth of a drainage channel on Erasmio beach in the northeast. 40D 52'N 24 D SO'E 6.7 km 15 m The beach consists of fine to coarse grained sand and is sharply sloping from the sea but rather flat after a few metres. A sand dune covered by < Strandroggen > and Eryngium maritimum separates the beach from a welt and (with tamariscs. Tamarix sp., and Salicornia sp.) and fallow land (mostly covered by grasses, Gramineae). To the west of the mouth of the drainage channel and in the centre the beach reaches a width up to 30 m. It is very narrow some 2 km to the west of the mouth of the drainage channel. Because of erosion by the sea a tamarisc wood now borders the splash tine. The beach is used by tourists in the centre and also near to the mouth of the drainage channel. Whereas the site near the drainage channel includes some pile-works. only caravans and tenls were seen at the other. Tracks of vehicles and humans were seen all over the beach, but were less frequent in the southwest. Some fishermen were active at the Nestos River mouth. An American radar stalion is situated to the rear of the beach. No visible pollution. A colony of Utile Terns (> 50 pairs) was found on a sand bank in front of the Nestos River mouth. Some 500 Yellow-legged Gulls were resting there on 15.6, but only c. 150 on 12.7.91. Other species included Redshank (1), Spur-winged Plover (2 pairs on 15.6. but 13 inds. on 12.7.91), Oystercatcher (>4 pairs), Kentish Plover (4) and Utile Ringed Plover (2 pairs). A dead ray was found on the shore. A 600 m long carpet of sea grass was observed in the centre of the beach on 12.7.91. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The Nestos delta to which this beach belongs. is an internationally important bird area.
Avdira west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
10.6 (61) The beach extends from the mouth of a drainage channel to the east of the Nestos River mouth to the tourist beach near Avdira. 400 55'N 24 D 54'E 12.9 km 15-30 m The beach consists of fine sand and slopes gently from the sea.
115
Land use:
Pollution:
Turtle situation: Fauna:
Protection: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
However, a small sandy ridge (lower Ihan 30 cm) has been formed at a few places in the splash zone. Extensive sand dunes with a typical vegetation structure are found to the rear of the beach and often reach far inland. Three small streams run into the sea as outflows of rear wetlands. There are three swimming beaches: Erasmio beach (which forms the border to beach no. 61), another beach in the eastern third, and the beach of Abdera at the easternmost edge. Sunshades. deck-chairs. small cafes etc. are found there. but include facilities like restaurants at the Abdera beach. Some tracks of motorbikes and other motor vehicles were noted all over the beach, but were more frequent around the bathing beaches. During the second survey (23.7.91) there were many more tourists than on our first visit (15.6.91) and they were much more evenly scanered over the beach. The beach was very clean without any visible pollution on our first visit on 15.6.91, but on 23.7.91 we saw some litter which had been washed ashore by waves. An immature dead Caretta carelta was found on the beach on 15.6.91. lis carapace length was 35 cm (curved length). A dead dolphin (length 2.4 m) was found nearby on the same day. A European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis) was seen on the beach and when we approached, it tried to escape into the sea. Also a Hermann's Tortoise (Testudo hermanni) was recorded. Observations on birds included Little Egret (7), Purple Heron (1). Pratincole (c. 35). Spur-winged Plover (5-7), Liltle Ringed Plover (1). Kentish Plover (5-20), Stone Curlew. Oystercatcher (2), Yellow-legged Gulls (c. 40). Mediterranean Gulls (> SO), Little Tern (10-12), Common Tern (2-4), Marsh Harrier etc. Although the area is not legally protected. signs show visitors the breeding area of terns and ask them to keep away of it. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. The Nestos delta to which this beach belongs. is an internationally important bird area. Extensive sand dunes are in particular important.
Avdira beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
10.7 (62) This beach extends from the public swimming beach of Avdira in the west (border to Avdira west beach) to the harbour jelly of Avdira in the east. 400 56'N 24°57'E 1.5 km 35 m A very flat beach of fine sand. The sand is wet immediately below the surface. indicating a high ground water le...el. In its eastern half. the beach is crossed by a small stream. Tiny scales of mica slate dominate here. A well·... isited swimming beach is situated at the western edge. Caravans, simple kiosks etc. are found there. A harbour with a long stony jetty has recently been constructed and a number of fishing boats, coffee-houses etc. are found there now. Some garbage had been washed ashore. The surface of the sea was slightly co...ered with a thin oil film at one place. 2 Kentish Plo...ers, Black-headed Buntings and Italian Sparrow were recorded. The beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesting, as there are many
• 116
Conserv. value:
daily visitors and some tourist installations_ The beach is situated in the Neslos delta, an internationally important bird area. This beach may play the role of a bitrer 10 the core lones.
Mandra south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
10.8 (63) The beach is limited by some cliffs in the southwest and the beginning of extensive sea grass accumulations in the northeast.
400 5B'N 25°01 'E 4.5 km 4-8 m A narrow beach behind which follows a very narrow strip of sand dunes. An unsurfaced road follows runs behind the dunes and parallel to the beach. separating the littoral from agricultural fields. The slope
of the beach is medium. The sea in front of the beach is extremely shallow. Fishermen walk a few hundred of metres into the sea and still do not submerge below the knees. Single holiday houses are scattered over the whole length. A small holiday selllement is found on the hill on the southwestern edge of the beach. Caravans and tents of uncontroled campers are found near some fishing huts where the road from Mandra meets the coast. No visible pollution. A dead dolphin with a length of 1.3 m was found on 15.6.91. One pair of Kentish Plover apparently bred on the beach. The beach is too narrow and the sand too moist for sea turtle nesting.
Porta Lagos west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Turtle situation:
Fauna:
10.9 (64) This is the beach which separates the lagoons of Lafrouda. Lafri and the salt works from the sea. 41°00'N 25°03'E 6.6 km 0-4 m The usual substrate of the beach is mud and fine sand, but to a large extent the beach itself is not visible as it is covered by a thick layer of sea grasses. This forms a wall 50 cm high. The beach is intersected by five outflows (each being some 20-30 m broad) from the lagoons. The sea is extremely shallow here, and therefore even the slight tidal differences of the Mediterranean Sea have a great effect. large areas fall dry during low tide. The lagoons are an important fishery resource. Fishery gates which regulate in movements of fishes are found at all places where the lagoons open to the sea and fishermen are also active in the open sea. The pollution from rubbish washed ashore was medium. A dead Caretta caretta which had been washed ashore was found on 15.6.91. 11 seemed that it had been died at least several weeks before. 115 carapace length (curved length) was 67 cm. There was a rich bird life in the lagoons. Our observations on 15.6.91 included 29 Flamingos. 4 Grey Herons. 7 little Egrets, 8 Curlews, 2
117
Various: S.l.n. potential:
Avocets, 6 Oystercatchers, 4 Pratincoles, 8 Redshanks, c. 20 Yellow~ legged Gulls, > 20 Little Terns and 5 Common Terns. 2 small colonies of Sand Martins were recorded in the sand banks of fhe outrlows of the lagoons into the sea. A thick layer of sea grass covered the beach. The beach is riot suitable for sea turtle nesting. as it was covered by a thick layer of sea grass.
118
11
Lagos region
Fanari beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
11.1 (65) The beach extends from the village to the fishery in the north of the
village. 41°00'N 25°0S'E 2.6 km 10 m The beach consists of fine sand sometimes with a thin upper layer of shingle. It is gently sloping from the beach. A dense halophile vegetation of starts immediately behind Ihe beach. ConstruClion works (including excavators) were underway at Ihe harbour jelly of FanarL Five sewage pipes run into the sea some 0.8 km south of the northern edge of the beach. Only two tourists were seen swimming. Only very sparse rubbish was seen washed ashore. 10 Yellow*legged Gulls. 20 Common Terns and 5 Uttle Terns were recorded on 16.6.91. The beach is too narrow and the sand too moist for sea turtle nesting. Being a part of the Porto Lagos lagoon system. an internationally recognized bird area. the beach plays an important role on the bar· der from the lagoon to the sea.
Aragi beach ID*number: Explanation: Co*ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
11.2 (66)
The beach extends from the town of Fanari to the outflow of the Ptelea lagoon. 40057'N 25°09'E 10.1 km 10-20 m The beach is intersected by two channels which run into the sea. The beach consists of fine sand, but coarse shingle is found 10 the west of the western channel. The slope of the beach from the sea is very modest and the sand is usually wet due to the high ground water table. Some 1().15 m high sand cliffs are situated between Ihe western edge of the beach and the western channel, and these also form Ihe eastern limit of the beach. Sand dunes covered by a natural vegela* tion are situated to the rear of the beach, and in particular in the east. The fine sandy beach between the channels is used for swimming. Simple beach huts and boats are found there. Excavators had removed the layer of sea grass in the west. No visible pollution. Although as so much sea grass had been washed ashore, almost no litter was brought to the beach by the waves. The shells of Fan Mussels (Pinna nobilis) were found on the beach
119
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
(where they had probably thrown by fishermen who brought them from their off-shore nets). 1 pair of Oystercatchers and 2 pairs of Kentish Plovers were assumed breeding on the beach. A Nightjar was seen in the sand dunes. Sea grass is found all along the beach and is more frequent in ils eastern haiL It sometimes forms a layer on the sand there. The sand is usually loo wet for turtle nesti~g and there is much sea grass on the beach. Only some parts seem suitable nesting places. The beach belongs 10 the Porta Lagos lagoon system, which is an internationally important bird area.
Ptelea lagoon beach ID-number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
11.3 (67) The beach is situated between the two outrlows of the Ptelea lagoon. 40056'N 25Q 13'E 1.5 km 10-15 m The flat beach consists of fine sand which is, however, mostly covered by a layer of sea grass. The wall of sea grass often reaches a height of 1 m. There are sand dunes with natural vegetation (mostly grasses. Gramineae, including behind the beach. Coastal lagoons are situated to the rear of the coast. The western oulflow of the lagoon is dry during low tide. the eastern one is fortified by a stony jetty. A house for fishermen is situated at the mouth of the outflow of the lagoon, and a small settlement at some distance from it. Fishing boats were seen noted on the beach. There were some shallow, reddish and awful smelling puddles near the mouth of the outflow coming from the lagoons. The nature of these puddles could not be determined. Among all the sea grass washed ashore there was only sparse rubbish. Among the birds observed. there were Little Egret, Cormorant (18 on an off·shore island), Shelduck (1 pair), Kentish Plover (1 pair), Oystercatcher (2 inds.), Yellow-legged Gull (c. 20), Mediterranean Gull (1 ind.) and Bee-eater (nesling holes in a cliff al the outflow of the lagoon). A layer of sea grass covers the beach. The sand is too wet and the beach has a too thick cover with sea grass for sea turtle nesting. The beach belongs 10 the Porto Lagos lagoon system, which is an internationally important bird area.
Mitrikon beach ID-number: Explanation:
11.4 (68) This beach extends in the west from the small hill with a church on its top to a camping site in a pine wood in the east.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
40'S6'N 2so20'E 9.1 km
10-20 m The beach is intersected by the mouth of the Filurion River and an
120
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
outflow of some shallow pool. A stony jetty at the ouHlow protects the coast and the water depth at the mouth is low (less than 0.5 m in June). The waler depth at the river mouth is > 2 rn. The beach is rather flat and consists of fine sand. Only at a few places are banks of fine shingle embedded into the sand. Large sand dunes are found behind the beach and reach far inland. They are covered by grasses (Gramineae), in particular by Ammophila arenaria. A few summer huts are scattered over the beach. Some anglers were seen and tracks of humans, cars and dogs were found in the sand. Some liller was seen on the beach, concentrated around the houses and the camping site in the east. One dead Hermann's Tortoise (Testudo hermanni) was found in the splash zone. Bird records included Shag (1 bird), Lillle Egret (2 birds), Kentish Plover (15-20 pairs on 16.6.. but only 7+ on 12.7.91). Litlle Ringed Plover (2 birds), Oystercatcher (7 pairs on 16.6 and 6 birds on 12.7.91). Pratincoles (17-20 birds). Stone Curlew (1 pair + 1 single), Redshank (2 birds). Common Sandpiper (2 birds), Curlew (1 bird). Lillle Terns (2()'35 birds, breeding). Common Terns (6 birds). Mediterranean Gulls (4 on 16.6. but c, 30 on 12.7.91), Black-headed Gull (c. 20), Yellow-legged Gulls. Bee-eater (1-4 birds) and Great Reed Warbler (1 sing.). Many more birds were recorded in the lagoon. including e.g. Lillle Egret. Night Heron. Marsh Harrier. Great Spotted Cockoo and Kingfisher. Much sea grass had been washed ashore and covered the beach in some places. Eelgrass (Zosfera marina) was identified. As the beach is very flat and much sea grass has been accumulated on the beach, the beach is less suitable for sea turtle nesling. The beach belongs 10 the Porta Lagos lagoon system. which is an internationally important bird area.
Ak. Aklada beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
11.5(69) The beach extends in the west from Ak. Aklada (a rocky spur inlo the sea) to'a river bed in the east. 400 54'N 25°24'E 4.5 km 2G-30 m The beach consists of shingle but also includes fine sand in the west. The slope from the sea is generally moderate. The influence of the waves had formed a low cliff. Extensive sand dunes reach far inland and gradually merge with extensively used hills. The river does not reach the sea in summer. but percolates away some meters behind the coast. Sunshades are scallered over the beach and are more frequent in the east. Changing cabins are also found. Some fishing boats were noted on the beach. The beach seemed to be very clean and without any litter washed ashore. Bird records included c. 20 Praticoles. 2 Redshanks, 2 Oystercatchers. 2 Litll~ Ringed Plover and> 6 Little Terns. At a few places. large amounts of sea grass had been washed ashore. Although the beach is usually very stony, its still lokks a less suitable sea turtle nesting beach.
121
Agios Haralambos beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential:
11.6(70) The western border is a river which percolates away before reaching the sea and the eastern border is the church of Agios Haralambos.
400 53'N 25°28'E 6.9 km 5-10 m A narrow beach which generally consists of coarse grained shingle. The zone 10 the rear of the beach consists of clay and is steeply sloping and covered by sparse vegetation (degraded maquis etc.). From time 10 lime, the clay forms cliffs several metres high. At such places, the shingle on the beach is replaced by hard clay and the beach width goes down to 5 m or less. Two small beach segments also consist of fine sand. that is at its eastern edge and close to the western end. A small river runs into the sea near Haralambos. Two small channels further west percolates away before reaching the beach. Both sand banks are used for tourism. Caravans. sun roofs. deckchairs. boats etc. are found there. Otherwise only a few fishing boats and a few tracks of humans were seen in the sand. Tracks of bulldozers were noted near the river mouth close to Haralambos. The sand was accordingly very hard and compact. The pollution from litter which had been washed ashore was mostly negligible. only at the western end was it moderate. Liltle Ringed Plover (2 pairs), Kentish Plover (3 pairs), Yellow-legged Gull and Wheat ear were recorded on the beach. European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis), Stripe-necked Terrapins (Mauremys caspica) and some unidentified Rana-frogs were seen in the freshwater parts of the area. An up to 0.5 m high and 2-4 m broad dam of sea grass washed ashore is found over almost the total beach length. The beach is too narrow and the beach material too hard (clay) for sea turtle nesting.
122
12
Alexandroupolis region
Ak. Maronias beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
12.1 (169) The beach is situated in a bay to the northeast of Ak. Maronias.
400 52'N 25°36'E 0.8 km 30 m A small stony bay. Fine shingle intermixed with larger pebbles is found in the splash zone further inland. 11 is replaced by fine sand intermixed with pebbles up to 10 cm in diameter. A small welland and
Land use:
arable farmland are situated to the rear of the beach. The transition to the beach is tormed by a 4 m broad strip of grasses (Gramineae). Tents and wooden huts were present on the beach with private summer holiday houses to its rear.
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
Only very little polluted from liMer washed onto the shore. 4 Litlle Ringed Plovers, 40 Yellow-legged Gulls. Turtle Doves, Swallows. Crested Larks. Linnets, Corn Buntings and Carrion Crows were recorded. The beach is rattler stony and therefore less suitable for sea turtte nesling.
Makri west beach I ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
12.2 (71) Ttle beach is situated to the west of Makri.
400 52'N 25°36'E 0.7 km 10-20 m This is a small bay with a beach which consists of coarse grained sand and fine shingle. Agricultural fields follow a narrow strip of sand dunes covered by sparse vegetation. Towards both edges of the beach, the inland is formed by hills covered by low, degraded Mediterranean maquis. Only a few tourists were recorded on the beach on 17.6.91 and stitl moderate numbers on 11.7.91. Tracks of vehicles in the sand demonstrated that il is used for driving. No visible pollution. The beach is not suitable for sea turtle nesting, as it is usually loo stony.
123
Makri west beach 11 ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates:
Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
12.3 (72) This beach is situated about halfway between Makri and Ak. Maromias. 400 52'N 25°39'E 0.8 km 10-12 m A gently sloping beach with a rather coarse texture of coarse sand and fine shingle in the splash zone. A somewhat finer material is found further inland, however, large pebbles are also found there. The shingle in the splash zone often forms a dam-like structure steeply sloping from the sea, but falling down again after some metres. A soil cliff with a height of 3-4 m separates the beach from the area behind. Some reefs are found in the sea in front of the beach. Several private plots are fenced (with and without summer houses) at the rear of the beach. Some fishermen's huts are situated directly on the beach. There were no tourists on 17.6.91. but moderate numbers on 11.7.91. The beach was very clean with almost no litter. One pair each of Kentish Plovers and Little Ringed Plovers and c. 40 Yellow·legged Gulls were recorded. The beach is usually loo narrow and also too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Makri west beach III ID·numbe,.: Explanation: Co-o,.dinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Turtle situation: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
12.4 (73) This beach is situated south of Dikella. 400 51'N 25°41'E 3.3 km 20 m The beach has generally a coarse texture of fine shingle with a few sand banks embedded into the shingle. It slopes gently from the sea. A narrow strip of sand dunes in the upper part of the beach has only a sparse vegetation. Behind it follow mostly private plots. Two rocky spurs intersect the beach into three parts. The beach is used for tourism especially in the east (the easternmost 1.5 km is under heavy tourist pressure). Many people who came for swimming and boating were seen lying on the beach. Almost no litter was recorded washed ashore. A dead Caretta caretta was found in the splash line on 17.6.91. It was still in a rather good condition. The carapace length was 67 cm. 4 pairs each of Little Ringed Plovers and Kentish Plovers and some Red-rumped Swallows were recorded. Very small amounts of sea grasses were seen. Some parts of the beach seem suitable for sea turtle nesting.
124
Makri beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna;
Various: 5.1.0. potential:
12.5 (74) The beach extends from the harbour of Makri in the west 10 rocky cliffs in the east.
40"51'N 25'47'E 3.9 km 10-15 m A rather narrow beach of coarse sand and fine shingle. U slopes gently from the sea and is bordered by 5-10 m high cliffs (sedimental rocks) or steep slopes to the rear. A good number of people who came for recreation were seen on the beach. A few boats were lying on the shore. Private summer houses are situated on the top of the cliffs. The pollution from rubbish washed ashore was sparse to moderate. Kentish Plovers (1 pair on 17.6. 6 inds. on 11.7.91) were recorded. Other bird species included Coockoo, Turtle Dove, Crested Lark and Fieldfare. The sea water was clear. but there was much green algae. The beach is usually loo narrow for sea turtle nesting. Tourism is at a critical level.
Alexandroupolis west beach I04number: Exptanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
12.6 (75) The beach extends from Ihe harbour of Alexandroupolis in the east 10 a rocky spur into the sea which marks the border to the Makri beach in the west. 400 51'N 25°51'E 5.2 km 12-20 m The material of the beach gradually changes from coarse sand in the west to fine sand in the east. Larger pebbles are, however, intermixed everywhere. A river runs into the sea in the eastern half of Ihe beach and exclusively coarse shingle is found near its mouth. Low cliffs of a few metres in height border the beach to its rear. Private plots. usually wilh summer houses, are situated on the top of the cliffs. Towards the east, the number of houses increases and gradually changes to the urban area of Alexandroupolis. A camping site is found there, loo. The number of tourists was high near the town. The beach had been leveled by bulldozers to satisfy tourist needs. Rubbish was only seen close to the harbour of Alexandroupolis. 1 pair of Kentish Plovers was recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting. It is bordered by steep cliffs to its rear.
Alexandroupolis east beach ID-number: Explanation:
12.7 (76) The beach extends from the jetty of an oil planl near Alexandroupolis in the west to Ihe beginning of the Alexandroupolis lagoon beach.
125
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
400 50'N 25°57'E 6.3 km 15-20 m A gently sloping beach. lis material is principally sand but it has an increasing portion of larger pebbles towards the west and becomes increasingly muddy towards the east. The beach width decreases to some 5 m at both edges of the beach. The sea is very shallow in particular at the eastern end of the beach and several sand banks are situated in the sea. The hinterland of the beach is formed by fallow land and tamarisc scrub. Due to the shallowness, the tidal activity has a great effect. e.g. large areas fall dry during low tide. An oil planl is situated at Ihe western edge of the beach. Only a few bathing people and a few fishing boats were seen. The beach was leveled and cleaned of sea grass by bulldozers whose tracks were seen everywhere. The beach was rather polluted from rubbish, part of which had been washed ashore by waves. Kentish Plovers (1 pair) and a Pratincole were seen on the shore. Other bird observations included Hoopoe, Fieldfare. Tawny Pipit and Corn Bunting on 18.6.1991 and 1 Glossy Ibis, 2 Shags (or Cormorants?), > 40 Curlews, 70 Redshanks, 7 Oystercatchers, 15 Kentish Plovers. Mediterranean Gulls, Black-headed Gulls, Yellow-legged Gulls and 3 Turtle Doves on 11.7.1991. As the beach is very flat, the sand is usually loo wet and compact for sea turtle nesting, The beach belongs to the Evros delta, which is an internationally important bird area.
Alexandroupolis lagoon beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential:
12.8 (77) The beach extends from the place where Limni Agianon opens into the sea in the south to the place where lhe beach becomes extremely narrow (border to Alexandroupolis east beach), 40 0 48'N 26°00'E 2.4 km
50 m The material of the beach is fine sand to mud, with large p!=!bbles sometimes forming an upper layer. Therefore the whole material is rather hard so that even cars can drive on it. The sea is very shallow here and becomes only gradually deeper. For example, fishermen walked more than 200 m into the sea without any need for swimming! Sand dunes with a grass cover (Gramineae) separate the beach from a large system of very flat lagoons. Halophile vegetation (like Salicornia) is found there. Some huts of fishing men and some fishing boats were situated on the beach. Tracks of cars were seen. No visible pollution. Two dead rays were found on the beach. > 40 Mediterranean Gulls were recorded on 18.6.91. Observations on 11.7.91 included 1 Black Stork, 7 Ullle Egrels. 5 Oystercatchers, 4 Kentish Plovers. 80 Redshanks, 3 Curlews, a Tawny Pipit etc. Sea grass washed ashore was noted in particular in the western parts of the beach. As the beach is very flat. the sand is usually too wet and compact for sea turtle nesting.
= 126
Conserv. value:
The beach belongs to the Evros delta, which is an internationally important bird area.
127
13
Thassos Island
Ormos Polamias bay lD·number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description: Land use:
13.1 (173) This beach is situated below the village of Potamia. 400 43'N 24°45'E 2.5 km 12 m The beach consists of fine sand and is backed by sand dunes. Steep slopes covered by a forest rise above the coast. The small harbour of Skala Potamias is situated al the southern edge. The sandy beach was crowded with a 101 of tourists. with kiosks.
Pollution:
shops etc. present everywhere. No visible pollution. It is thought that the beach is cleaned regularly_
S.t.n. potential:
Tourisl pressure is too high to allow sea turtle nesting.
Kinira beaches ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
13.2 (174) Several small beach sections which are separated from each other by rocky cliffs or rocks are comprised under this Kinira heading. 400 40'N 24°46'E 2.0 km (total length) 4·5 m A very narrow beach which consisls predominantly of shingle. but embedded with banks of fine sand. Steep slopes rise immediately behind the coast and are covered by a forest. A road runs in the forest parallel to the coast and has several tracks from there 10 the beach. Many parked cars were recorded here, but the total number of tourists on the beach was still moderate. No visible pollution. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Polos bays IDMnumber: Explanation: COMordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
13.3 (175) Three small bays to the southeast of Potos are summarized under this heading. 4lJ"35'N 24°37'E 1.3 km (total length; 120 m. 200 m and 1000 m) 5-20 m The coast is stony with only a few sandy sections.
". Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
Many tourists were noted on Ihe beach and several hotels are situated to the rear. The beaches were probably leveled and widened by man. Almosl no pollution visible. Yellow-legged Gulls were noled. The beach is loo stony and too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Limenaria beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
13.4 (176) The beach extends 'from the harbour jetty of Limenaria in the east 10 the beginning of rocky cliffs in Ihe west. 40"37'N 24°33'E 2.3 km 15-25 m The beach is divided into three parts by some rocks which project into the sea. The eastern most kilometer consists of shingle which is replaced by sand in (he other areas intermixed with some large pebbles in the sand. The beach width gradually rises from 15 m in the east 10 25 m in the west. Sand dunes are found behind the western beach. A harbour jetty forms the easlern end of the beach and a road runs on a Sleep cliff and parallel 10 the eastern part of the beach. A small marina with a restaurant is situated at Ihe rear of the western end of the beach 'and can be reached through a tunnel. Tourisls are concentrated on the sandy areas of Ihe beach. Motor boats were noted in the sea. No pollution was noted. Observations on birds included Yellow-legged Gulls, 15 Pallid Swifls. House Martins. Great Tits. Greenfinches and Goldfinches. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting. but tourism is at a critical level.
Skala Kalirahis beaches ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
13.5 (178) Two bays some 1 km north of Skala Kalirahis are summarized under this heading. 400 42'N 24°31'E 0.5 km
6m The narrow beach consists of medium coarse shingle. Flat beach rocks are found in the splash zone. Olive groves form the hinterland. No human use was noted. No visible pollution. Carrion Crows were recorded. The beach ;s too stony and too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
129
Skala Prinos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates:
length: Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Turtle situation:
Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
13.6 (177) The beach extends from c. 1 km north of Satiros (coast fortified by while rocks!) to Skala Prinos. 400 46'N 24°35'E 3.5 km 2-15 m The beach width gradually rises from 2·4 m in the south to 8-15 m in the north. In the south, it consists of fine to medium coarse sand. Further north, some shingle is intermixed and rocks are found in the splash zone. Gardens and olive groves are situated to the rear of the southern beach, sand dunes with pine woods (Pin us sp.) further north. The harbour jetty of Skala Prinos forms the northern border of the area and some installations for constructing and repairing boats are found on the beach. A large camping site is situated on the northern beach. The number of tourists is moderate and decreases from the north to the south. Some boats were scattered over the beach and sun roofs were present at several localities. Some plastic litter had been washed onto the shore. A dead Loggerhead Turtle was found in the splash zone on 22.7.1991. It seemed to have lain here since a long time and was rafher decayed. The carapace length (curved length) was 27 cm. 4 Little Ringed Plovers, Yellow~legged Gulls and House Martins were recorded. Most parts of the beach are too narrow and too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Skala Rahoniou beach ID-number: Explanation: Co~ordinates:
Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
13.7 (179) The beach extends from Skala Prinos in the south to the beginning of a rocky cliff near Skala Rahoniou in the north. 4Qo47'N 24°36'E
2.5 km 3~18 m Several sandy sections which are separated from each other by rocks and small sandy bays are discussed here. The length of 2.5 km refers to Ihe total beach length. The material is usually fine sand, sometimes intermixed with larger pebbles. The beach is under heavy tourist pressure. Several hotels are situated here and each bay usually belongs to a certain hotel. Almost no visible pollution. AII~ough the beach is a tourist beach, some parts may be still a potential nesting habitat for sea turtles.
130
14
Samothraki Island
Samothraki north beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Protection: S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
14.1 (181) The beach covers the whole north coast of the island and extends from the harbour of Kamariotissa to Ak. Angistron. 40030'N 25°36'E 21 km
7-10 m A narrow stony beach. The pebbles are large and often embedded with rocks. A layer of humus follows immediately behind the beach. Forests. thorn-cushion vegetation and areas covered by ferns (Pleridiophyla) are growing on it. A few small streams run into the sea, but most of them fall dry during summer. Two camping sites are in the western half of the beach. A stony jetty
is also found there. The area behind the beach is partly used as pasture. Many people go fishing by boat at night and long rows of lamps can be seen then. Tourists were sca"ered over the beach. No visible pollution. The sea and the beach looked very clean. 13 Shags (including 10 immature birds which most probably belonged to this species and were not Cormorants). 16 Eleonora's Falcons. 100 Yellow-legged Gulls, a Stone Curlew. 3 Collared Doves. a Utile Owl, a Scop's Owl and 2 Ravens were noted. An area in the centre of the beach is protected as an archeological site. The beach is too stony for sea turtle nesting. The beach is of high scenic value.
Ak. Kipos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
14.2 (180) This is the easternmost beach of Samolhraki. 400 27'N 25°41'E 1.9 km 50 m The beach consists of tine. almost black shingle. All pebbles have an almost equal size. The beach slopes steeply in the splash zone and elevates 1-2 m above the sea. Then the slope becomes very gentle and one gets the impression of an extensive stony desert. A few daily visitors were noted on the beach. The beach and the sea were extremely clean. c. 7 Yelkoan (Manx's) Shearwaters and a Honey Buzzard were observed. The beach is too stony for sea turtle nesting.
131
Samothraki south bay lO·number: Explanation:
Co·ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution:
S.t.n. potential:
14.3 (182) This is a small bay at the southern tip of the island. 400 24'N 25°3S'E 0.5 km up to 20 m The beach consists of fine shingle intermixed with coarse pebbles. The slope from the sea is medium. Two other very small bays (each c. 100 m long) are situated to the east and west of this beach. These beaches consists also of fine sand. This beach is welHrequented by tourists. A coffee-house is situated above the beach. No visible pollution. The tourist pressure is too high to allow sea turtle nesting.
Samothraki southwest beach ID-number: Explanation:
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
14.4 (183) The beach extends from the end of the rocky coast in the southwest of the island to the western tip of the island. 400 26'N 2so 29'E 6.9 km 10 m This beach is relatively narrow and consists of coarse material. The size of the pebbles varies greatly with large rocks intermixed. Rocks or a layer of humus follows immediately behind the beach. Grain is cultivaled at those places where the slope allows it. The beach is rather remote and difficult to access. A restaurant catering mainly for local fishermen is situated on the beach. Some fishermen were seen in the sea. Very few tourists use the beach for swimming. No visible pollution. A Green Sandpiper. some Crested Larks. a Woodchat Shrike. Goldfinches. a Corn Bunting. Black-headed Buntings and a Raven were recorded near the coast. The beach is loo narrow and too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Samothraki west beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution:
14.5 (184) This beach represents the western tip of the island. 40"28'N 25'27'E 2.4 km
20m The western tip of Samothraki island consists of a large stony area: The shingle rises steeply from the sea; the pebbles are usually large and reach a size of 20 cm in diameter. A smatllagoon is found inland. The shingle is exploited for construction works. There is a small garbage dump in the area. Four wind mills are found here. No visible pollution of the coast.
132
Fauna:
S.1.n. potential:
A pair of Little Ringed Plover. a Kentish Plover and c. 600 Yellow-legged Gulls were observed. The beach is too slony for sea turtle nesting.
I I
133
15
Limnos Island
Kolpos Poumias beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
Description:
Land use: Pollution:
S.t.n. potential:
15.1 (192) This is the only beach in the bay of Pournias. 39°38'N 25°16'E 0.4 km
6-10 m The beach is bordered by rocky cliffs in ~he north and south. The beach material is fine sand which is rather compacted and is hence hard. The slope from the sea is very gentle, but sharp in the transition zone from the beach to the dunes. The beach is divided into two halves by a rocky spur. Sand dunes at the rear are covered by typical vegetation. Many tourists were noled on the beach. A restaurant and coffee-houses are about 100 m from the sea. No visible pollution. The beach is too narrow and the beach material too hard for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Sotiri south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
15.2 (191) The beach is situated in a bay to the south of Ak. Sotiri.
400 00'N 25°22'E 0.7 km 25 m A relatively flat beach which consists of fine sand. Very low hills rise behind the beach and are covered by low Mediterranean scrub and various grasses (Gramineae). Only a few tourists were noted in the extreme south and north. The beach is difficult to reach. Beekeepers were noted in the hinterland. No visible pollution. A young Stone Curlew and YellOW-legged Gulls were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Onnos Keros beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
15.3 (190) The beach is the only one in the bay of Ormos Keros.
39°55'N 25°21'E 4.7 km
134
Beach width: Description:
land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential:
15 m The bay has the shape of a semicircle. Rocky cliffs with churches on their laps form the northern and southern border. The beach slopes gently from Ihe sea and consists of fine sand. A 5 m broad strip behind the splash zone consists of rather compact material and this allows vehicles to drive on it. Sand dunes with a rich vegetation are situated above the beach. with a saft lagoon further 10 the rear. A road runs parallel to the coast in the northern half. Some military installations (bunkers etc.) are found in the dunes. The number of tourists was very low, but included wind surfers and uncontrolled campers. Many tracks of vehicles were noted in Ihe sand. Some flotsam including plastic liller was noted on the southern half of the beach. There was a colony of Stilts (> 50 birds) on the shores of the sail lagoon to the rear and one pair lead their young 10 the beach. Yellowlegged Gulls. a Hoopoe. Bee-eaters. a Fieldfare, a Crested Lark, a Black-eared Whealear and a Raven were observed. large amounts of sea grass had been washed onlo the shore and formed an upto 1.5 m high layer on Ihe beach. The sand is too compact and wet for sea turtle nesting.
Ak. Voroskopos north beach ID-number: Explanation:
15.4 (186) The beach is situated between the cliffs of Ak. Voroskopos in the south and the place where a road from Roussopouli meets the sea in the north.
Co~ordinates:
39°52'N 25°21'E 1.5 km 12 m
length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
The beach consists of fine sand which forms. however. a relatively hard substrate. Towards the south, the proportion of shingle becomes increasingly dominan!. Sand dunes are found behind the beach and large pebbles are present in the transition area from the beach to the dune. The slope from the sea is gentle. The number of tourists was low. Some sun roofs. vehicles and tenls (casual camping) were noted. The pollution was little: only a few plastic goods and some old fishing nets had been washed onto the beach. The beach is loo narrow for sea lurtle nesting.
Ak. Voroskopos south beach ID-number: Explanation:
15.5 (187) The beach extends from the south of the cliffs of Ak. Voroskopos to the beginning of the rocky coast.
Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
39°50'N 25°21 'E 2.7 km 10-16 m The beach consists or a mixture of fine sand and fine shingle. The shingle dominales the upper parts of the beach. The hinterland is formed by hills which are covered by various grasses (Gramineae) and a
135
land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
thorn-cushion vegetation. Some rocky spurs projects into the sea at the centre of the beach. Very few tourists were noted on the beach. No visible pollution. c. 20 Yellow-legged Gulls, Rock Doves, Fieldfares. Crested Larks, a Black·eared Wheatear and Jackdaws were recorded during the survey. Being relatively narrow and somewhat stony,
Varos beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
15.6 (197) The beach is situated at the northern tip of the Ormos Moudrou.
39°55'N 25°15'E 4.2 km 2-4 m The beach is extremely flat and narrow and consists of fine to coarse grained sand. Agricultural fields, pastures and military areas are situated to the rear of the beach. An airfield is situated further away. The sea in front of the coastline is extremely shallow. The interior part of The bay of Moudhrou (Ormos Moudhrou) on which this beach is situated reaches a maximum depth of 7.3 m. The number of tourists on the beach was low. Fishermen were active on the shore: planes were noted in the air. There was some litter washed onto the beach. Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Nea Koutali beach ID-number: Explanation:
15.7 (198) The beach extends from Kap Akroliri in the south to Kap Limni in the north.
Co·ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
39°52'N 25°12'E
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
4.1 km (total length) 2-4 m The beach is composed of three sections which are separated from each other by rocks. It consists of fine sand, sometimes also of medium coarsed shingle. Arable farmland. pastures, private plots etc. border on the upper beach. The sea is extremely shallow here. Only a tow tourist pressure was noted. Very lillle litter was noted washed onto the beach. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Onnos Ay. Pavlon beach ID-number: Explanation:
15.8 (196) This beach is situated in a bay southwest of the settlement of Kon-
136
Co~ordinates:
length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
dias. 39°51'N 25°07'E 2.5 km 20-40 m A wide beach which con~ists of fine sand. A gentle slope is found in the splash zone, but the beach is almost Oat further back. Sand dunes which follow behind the beach are covered by various grasses (Gramineae) and a thorn-c.ushion vegetation. A small wetland including a pool with reed beds (Common Reed, Phragmites australis) is found in the centre of the beach. There were only a few tourists (including wind surfers) on the beach and in the sea. No visible pollution. A little Ringed Plover. Yellow-legged Gulls, House Martins. Swallows, Red-rumped Swallows and Crested larks were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Asprokavos east beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
15.9 (195) The beach is situated immediately to the east of the Asprokavos peninsula. 39°S0'N 25D OS'E 0.8 km 30-40 m A beach which consists of fine sand and which slopes gently from the sea. Sand dunes with a vegetation cover follow inland. Tamarisc scrub (Tamarix sp.) and olive groves are found to the rear. The town of Thanos lies behind the beach. Used for tourism to 100%. Sun umbrellas, deck-chairs, motor boats, tents (wild camping) etc. are found everywhere. No visible pollution. The beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourist pressure is too high.
Pial; beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
15.10 (194) This is the only beach in the bay of Plati. 39°51'N 25°Q4'E 1.0 km 6-15 m A fine sandy beach which slopes gently from the sea. Sand dunes are found only in some areas behind above the beach; private plots and pastures otherwise border the beach. Trees grow at the northern edge of the shore. The southern half of the beach is 100% under tourist use. but the number of tourists is moderate in the northern half. Boats. tents. restaurants, summer holiday houses etc. are found in the south. A new holiday estates with at least BD units is under construction 100 m away from the southern tip of the beach. No visible pollution.
137
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourist pressure is too high.
Mirina beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
15.11 (189) This is the bathing bay immediately to the north of Mirina.
39°53'N 25°04'E 1.0 km
Description:
10 m A beach with fine sand. The natural vegetation of the 30 m broad sand dunes has been removed and trees and scrub have been planted.
Land use:
Rocky cliffs are found in the north and south of the beach. Bars and coffee-houses are situated on the sand dunes. A road runs behind the coast. The beach is under heavy tourisl pressure and
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
many pedal boats. surf boards and yachts were seen. No visible pollution. An Eleonora's Falcon and Yellow-legged Gulls were recorded. There is loo much tourism 10 allow sea turtle nesting.
Mirina north beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution:
Turtle situation: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
15.12(185) The beach is situated in a bay 2.0 km north of Mirina.
39°54'N 25°04'E 1.8 km 12~15 m The beach consists of fine sand. wilh sand dunes found behind the beach. The dunes are covered by a mosaic of various grasses (Gram ineae). A river bed has been cut off from Ihe sea and reed beds (Corn· mon Reed, Phragmites australis) are found here. A bathing beach with sun roofs, volley ball nels etc. A small power station which produces electricity is situated some 300 m behind Ihe beach. Water for its cooling is taken from the sea at the northern edge of Ihe beach. A road runs parallel to the coast in the hills above the sea. No visible pollution from garbage or sewage, but the pholopollution is heavy: The power station and a radio station on lop of a rear hill are illuminated at night. A turtle track was found on the beach. The turtle emerged some 8.5 m onto the beach, but returned without depositing eggs (U-turn). A Moorhen, Rock Doves and an Isabelline Wheatear were observed. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, but tourism is at a critical level (mostly daily visitors).
138
Kaspakas beach IO·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: S.t.n. potential:
15.13 (188) The beach is situated in a bay northwest of Kaspakas.
39'56'N 25'04'E 0.8 km
8m The beach consists of a mixture of fine sand and shingle. The portion of pebbles increases towards the north. The sand dune behind the beach is covered by various grasses (Gramineae). Agricultural fields are situated further to the rear. A small harbour for fishing boats forms the southern edge of the beach. Private summer houses and huts are situated above the coast. A road runs c. 150 m above the beach. The number of tourists was moderate. Very little rubbish had been washed ashore. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Kolpos Gomati beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
15.14 (193) This is the only beach in the bay. 40000'N 25°09'E 1.8 km
25 m The beach consists of fine to coarse sand which is intermixed with a low number of larger pebbles. Extensive sand dunes covered by grasses (Gramineae) are found behind the beach. Two small wellands are situated behind the centre of the beach and Common Reed (Phragmites auslralis) grows there. Both wet lands have an outflow into the sea. Only a few touriSIS were seen on the beach. A small military area is siluated on the eastern part of the beach and tracks of tanks and lorries were noted in the sand. There was a fishermen's hut at the western edge. The beach is heavily polluted from plastic rubbish washed onto the shore. Bird observations included 7 Eleonora's Falcons (two of them of the dark colour morph), a Kentish Plover, 15 Yellow-legged Gulls, 15 Alpine Swins and a Black-headed Gull. The beach is suitable for sea turlle nesting. The area provides unspoilt sand dunes. a small wet land etc.
139
16
Lesbos Island
Aspropolamos beach ID·number:
Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
16.1 (213) The beach extends from Aspropotamos in the north to rocky cliffs in the south. 39°17'N 26D 23'E 1.2 km 8-15 m The beach consists of fine sand intermixed with some pebbles. These pebbles. however. become increasingly frequent towards the north. The width is 15 m, but decreases to B m in the north. The river Aspro runs near the northern edge of the beach and large reed beds (with Common Reed. Phragmiles australis) are found there. Gardens are situated at the rear of the southern end of the beach. A holel which seems 10 be disused is situated on a hill further inland.
land use: Pollution: Fauna:
Various: Turtle situation:
S.t.o. potential:
Only a few tourists were noted. No visible pollution. Yellow-legged Gulls. 2 Common Terns, Turtle Doves. Fieldfares and Goldfinches were recorded. The beach and the sea were recognized officially as "extremely clean'" by the Marine Environmental Protection Association. A young Loggerhead Turtle. Caretta caretta, was seen on the wall of a restaurant. The carapace length was 20-25 cm. The southern end of the beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, but not the northern. where it is too stony and too narrow.
Akr. Maleas west beach ID-number: Explanation:
16.2 (199) Two bays to the west of Akr. Maleas are summarized under this hea· dingo
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
39°01'N 26°35'E 1.2 km
Land use:
10-18 m A rocky spur separates a small bay (length c. 300 m) from the main beach which has a length of c. 800 m. The small bay in the east consists of coarse shingle and the beach is 10 m wide. A pine wood (Pinus sp.) is situated above the beach. The beach width of the larger bay in the west is some 18 m. Very coarse shingle with pebbles up to 20 cm in diameter are found at its eastern edge, but the material becomes finer in the west. A strip of sand (0.5 m broad) is situated in the splash zone. The inland is formed by a welland which was dry (Common Reed. Phragmiles australis, was still present) and by olive groves at the slopes further south. Heavy tourist pressure is found in the small bay (many daily visitors
'40
Pollution: Fauna: Various: S.t.n. potential:
on Ihe beach, casual camping 10 the rear pine wood), but less on Ihe larger one. A hut, cars and some fishermen were noled on the western beach. No visible pollution. A fisherman as seen with a lot of octopuses (Octopus sp.). Much sea grass had been washed onto the shore of the western bay. The beach is too stony for sea turtle nesting.
Ag. Ermogenis beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
16.3 (200) Two small bays near Ag. Ermogenis are sumarized under this heading. 39°01 'N 26°33'E 0.13 km 2-6 m Bolh bays are surrounded by steep cliffs. The beach of Ihe eastern bay is some 80 m long and 6 m broad. It consists of fine to coarse shingle. Olive groves are found above the beach. The western beach is 50 m long, but only 2-5 m broad. 11 consists of fine sand, but is intermixed with somewhat larger pebbles. A hOlel. two summer holiday houses and a few simple huts are situated to the rear of the eastern bay. However. there were hardly any tourist on the beach. Contrasting with this. there were many people including some fishermen on the western beach. No visible pollution. Yellow-legged Gulls were seen in the sea. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Tarti beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
16.4 (201) Two bays 10 Ihe east of Tarti. which are separated from each other by rocks, are summarized under this heading. 38°59'N 26°30'E 1.1 km 8-20 m The eastern beach consists of fine to medium coarse shingle and has banks of fine sand interspersed in Ihe upper parts. The slope from the sea is gentle. Gardens with fig-trees, olive-trees etc. are found above the beach and a strip of reed. separates Ihe gardens from the beach. The western bay consists of fine to medium coarse shingle in the splash zone and partly fine sand in the upper beach. Private plots, gardens, olive-groves and the village of Tarti are siluated to the rear of this bay. The border between the gardens and the beach is often formed by a wall. Only a few tourists including a motor boat were noted in the eastern bay. but many were in the western. Restaurants, tenls (casual camping), boats and waler bikes to let, elc. are found everywhere. No visible pollution. A Yellow-legged Gull was noted. The beach is too stony and often loo narrow for sea turtle nesting.
141
Ag. Isidoros beach ID-number:
16.5 (202)
Explanation:
The beach extends from Ag. Isidoros in the west 10 a rocky outcrop in the east.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width:
38'58'N 26'25'E 1.7 km 20·30 m
Description:
The beach consists of fine sand in the splash zone and in the uppermost' part. but is of a mixture of sand and fine to coarse grained shingle in the strip inhetween. Some small reed beds and many houses are found behind the beach. A small rocky bay with a short sandy beach (c. 50 m long) is situated to the east of this beach. II seems that the beach had been leveled ~nd enlarged for tourist purpose. Many houses are found behind the beach. Many tourist facilities including kiosks, beach bars, boats to let, sun umbrellas, changing cabins etc. are found on the beach. The number of tourists present on the beach was high. A 70 m long wall is found at the eastern end of the beach. The beach was very clean, as it was being cleaned from litler every morning. Yellow-legged Gulls, House Martins, Blue Tits and Goldfinches were noled. There are too many tourist facilities to allow sea turtle nesting.
Land use:
Pollution:
Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
Vatera beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
16.6 (203) The beach extends from the point where the road coming from Kala Stavros meets the beach to 500 m west of Almiropotamos mouth. 39°01'N 26C1 12'E 7.0 km
20m The eastern beach consists of coarse shingle with a low portion of coarse sand. in particular in the splash zone. The pebbles become smaller and the portion of sand increases towards west. There are many rocks in the splash zone in a 700 m long area of the weslern beach. The beach is separated from a road by scrub and grasses to the east, and by a tamarisk plantation to the west. Only the western half of the beach which consists mostly of sand (and nol shingle like the easlern half) is used by tourists. Some molor boats were noted in the sea and on the shore. Private summer houses are siluated behind the western beach and several coffee-houses are found within the plantation of tamarisks. Only little litter was noted washed onto the shore. A Snake-eyed Lizard (Ophisops e/egans) was observed in the sand. Bird records included a Yellow-legged Gull, 3 Collared Doves, House Martins, Goldfinches and Greenfinches. The eastern half of the beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting, as it is less frequented by tourists.
.r-------
142
Tsiknias mouth beach ID-number: Explanation:
16.7 (204) The beach extends in the west from the harbour jetty of Skala Kaltonis to a lagoon in the east.
Co-ordinates:
39°12'N 26°13'E 1.3 km 6-20 m
Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is situated in the interior of the bay of Kallonis onto both sides of the mouth of the Tsiknias River. The beach width is decreasing from 20 m in the west to 6 m in the east. The beach consists of fine material and is gently sloping from the sea. Sand dunes are found in particular in the east. The western half of the beach is under 100% tourist use, but hardly any tourist were as seen in the easlern half. Rent-a-boat and rent-asurfboard facilities, water motor bikes, restaurants and other tourist facilities are found in the west. No visible pollution. A Purple Heron, 2 Common Terns and House Martins were noted. The western half of the beach is physically suitable for sea turtle nesting, but there are too many tourists.
Skala Eressou beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential: Conserv. value:
16.8 (208) The beach extends from the harbour jetty of Skala Eressou in the east to rocky cliffs in the west. 39°0B'N 25°55'E 2.3 km 20-40 m The beach consists of fine shingle and sand. There is a '0-20 cm high step-like slope in the splash zone. where much coarse material has accumulated. Otherwise the beach slopes gently from the sea. The mouth of the Chalantra River divides the beach into two halves. The river is without running water during summer. Reed beds (with Common Reed, Phragmites australis, and Juncus sp.) are found on its shores further inland. Sand dunes with a sparse thorn-cushion vegetation and various grasses (Gramineae) are found behind the beach. The beach reaches its maximum width of 40 m at its western end. The village of Skala Eressou is situated at Ihe eastern end of the beach and a harbour and many tourist facilities like restaurants. boats-ta-let. surfboards-ta-let, sun umbrellas. deck-chairs etc. are found there. The number of tourists is accordingly high at this end of the beach. but low at the other places. Some sun umbrellas and a wooden hut were noted at the western end and there was a camping site to the rear of the beach near the river mouth. Some rubbish had been washed onto the shore. A Kentish Plover, a Little Ringed Plover, Yellow-regged Gulls, Fieldfares. Crested Larks. House Martins and Swallows were noled. A large population of Stripe-necked Terrapins (Mauremys caspka) lives in the river. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting apart from the eastern end, where there is much tourism. The river is cui off from the sea in the dry season and interesting habitats with standing freshwater (where e.g. Stripe-necked Terrapins
'43
live) which alsae include sand dunes are formed.
Akr. Sigri beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description: Land use:
Pollution: Fauna:
Various:
S.t.n. potential:
16.9 (207) The beach is situated on the southern side of the cape of Sigri.
39°11 'N 25°50'E 0.5 km 6-8 m A fine sandy beach which slopes gently from the sea. A sparse cover of rushes is found at the rear. No tourists were noted on the beach. The remains of a wooden hut werp. present and Ihe beach was intersected by a fence in the north. Some plastic litter was noted among the flotsam. Yellow-legged Gulls were present. A 101 of sea grass had been washed ashore. Mixed with sand. Ihe sea grass formed a 50 cm high wall. The beach is loo narrow for sea turtle nesting.
Sigri south beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
land use: Pollution: Fauna:
Various: S.t.n. potential:
16.10 (206) This is the bay to the south of the Sigri beach.
39°12'N 25°51'E 1.0 km
20 m Fine sand which is partly intermixed by larger pebbles further inland. Sand dunes with a cover of Juncus and thorn-cushion-vegetation are found behind the beach, but a small wetland with a pool and a reed bed (with Common Reed, Phragmites australis) is also situated there. The hills further to the rear are heavily eroded and almost without vegetation. A small number of tourists were present on the beach. Sheep and goat herds were pasturing to the rear. Some flotsam on the beach included plastics. Herpetological observations included Stripe-necked Terrapin (Mauremys caspica), Green lizard (Lacerta viridis) and Snake-eyed Lizard (Ophisops elegans). Some 50 Yellow-legged Gulls were present on rocks in the sea and a Kestrel and Crested Lark was recorded. The beach is covered in places by sea grass washed ashore. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Sigri beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates:
16.11 (205) This is the beach immediately to the south of the village SigrL
39°13'N 25°51'E
• 144
Length: Beach width:
Description:
1.0 km
5-8 m
Various:
The beach consists of fine sand and slopes very gently from the beach. A wall runs parallel to the the splash line and marks the boundary of the beach inland. A roads runs parallel to the coast above and behind this beach wall. The number of tourists was very tow. No visible pollution. Swirls and House Martins were recorded. The are some more sandy bays in the region of Sigri, but as their
S.t.n. potential:
The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
land use: Pollution:
Fauna:
length is below 50 rn, they were not surveyed.
Skoutaros beach ID-number: Explanation:
16.12 (210)
Co-ordinates: Length:
The beach is situated in the bay of Skoutaros where Skata Skoularos (harbour of Skoutarosj is also found. 39°19'N 26Q OB'E 0.5 km
Beach width:
18 m
Description:
The beach consists of coarse material and is intermixed with pebbles. AI some places these pebbles dominate over the sand. Some Common Reed (Phragmites australis) grow on the shores of a small pool, and a farm is found above the beach.
Land use:
Only a few people who came for swimming were noted on the beach. Some people were fishing with long-lines. Sheep and coats were gra-
Various:
zing 10 the rear of the coast. Very little rubbish was noted among the sea grass. 8 Stripe-necked Terrapins (Mauremys caspica) were noted in a small pool. Much sea grass had been washed onlo the beach and forms an
S.t.n. potential:
almost one meter high natural embankment against the sea. The beach is suitable for sea turtle nesting.
Pollution:
Fauna:
Petra beach lD·number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: length: Beach width: Description: land use:
Pollution: Various: S.t.n. potential:
16.13 (209) The beach is situated in the bay of Petra and is bordered by rocks to the south and north. 39°20'N 260 11 'E 1.9 km 15 m The beach consists of coarse shingle with pebbles of up to 10 cm in diameter. The village Petra is situated above the beach and there is development all along the coast. Many tourists were noted on the beach and facilities included pedal boats, water motorbikes etc. The beach seems to have been leveled and enlarged for tourist needs. Almost no rubbish on the beach. Much sea grass had been washed onto some places of the shore. There is too much tourism for sea turtle nesting.
145
Milhimna beach ID-number: Explanation: Co-ordinates: Length:
Beach width: Description:
Land use: Pollution: Fauna:
S.t.n. potential:
16.14 (211) The beach is situated immediately to the south of Milhimna. 39"22'N 26°11'E 6-15 m 1.3 km The southern one third of the beach consists of fine sand with only some shingle banks interspersed. Towards the north. the sand is increasingly replaced by shingle which is medium coarsed in the centre and coarse with pebbles up to 15 cm in diameter in the north. The slope of the beach from the sea is sharp in the first few metres, but becomes moderate in the upper regions. A dam is situated to the rear of the southern beach and tamarisks (Tamarix sp.) and Common Reed (Phragmites auslralis) grow next to it. Only some tourists were present. Installations for sun umbrellas and two rent-a-pedalboat facilities were noted. No visible pollution. Yellow· legged Gulls, House Martins, Linnets and Goldfinches were observed. The beach is too narrow and there is often too much coarse-grained shingle on the beach for sea turtle nesting.
Milhimna northeasl beach ID-number: Explanation:
16.15 (212) The beach extends from the hotel Eftalous in the Mithimna to rocky cliffs east of it.
Co-ordinates: Length: Beach width: Description:
39°23'N 26°12'E
Land use: Pollution: Fauna: S.t.n. potential:
northeast
of
2.0 km 7-15 m The beach is situated at the foot of a rocky cliff. It is splilled over several small bays with a lenglh of mostly 100-200 m. Rocks and cliffs separate these bays from eacholher. The beach material is very coarse and the beach slopes sharply in the splash zone (up 10 0.5 m high cliffs), but medium slope further to the rear. The number of tourists was moderate. No visible pollution. Yellow-legged Gulls, a Rock Nuthatch and Carrion Crows were recorded. The beach is too narrow for sea turtle nesting.
147
Appendix A List of the scientific names of bird species mentioned in the text Little Grebe Manx Shearwater Cormorant Shag Pelican Little Bittern Night Heron Little Egret Grey Heron Purple Heron Spoonbill Glossy Ibis While Stork Black Stork Shelduck
Buzzard long-\egged BUllard Honey Buzzard Marsh Harrier Eleonora's Falcon Hobby Kestel Moorhen Coot Oystercatcher Black-winged Stilt Avocel Slone Curlew Collared Pralincole Litlle Ringed Plover Kentish Plover Spur-winged Plover Black-tailed Godwit Bar-tailed Godwil Curlew Redshank Greenshank Green Sandpiper Common Sandpiper Mediterranean Gull Black-headed Gull Slender-billed Gull Yellow-legged Gull Common Tern Little Tern Black Tern Collared Dove Turtle Dove Great Spotled Cuckoo Cuckoo Scop's Owl Little Owl Swift Pallid Swift Alpine Swift Bee-eater Roller
Tachybaptus ruficolfis Puffinus puffinus Phalacrocorax phalacrocorax Phatacrocorax aristotelis Petecanus sp. Ixobrychu5 minutus Nycticorax nycticorax Egretta garzetta Ardea cinerea Ardea purpurea Plalafea leucorodia Plegadis falcinellus Ciconia ciconia Cinonia nigra Tadorna ladorna Buteo buteo Buleo furious Pernis apivorus Circus aeruginosus Fafco e/eonorae Falco subbuteo Falco tinnunculus Galfinuta chloropus Fulica atra Haematopus haematopus Himantopus himantopus Recurvirostra avocetta Burhinus oedicnemus Glareola pratincola Charadrius dubius Charadrius alexandrinus Hoplopterus spinosus Limosa limosa Limosa lappon;ca Numenius arquata Tringa totanus Tringa nebularia Tringa ochropus Actitis hypoleuca Larus melanocephalus Larus ridibundus Larus genei Larus cachinnans Sterna hirundo Sterna atbifrons Chlidonias nigra Streptopelia decaocta Streptopelia turtur Clamator glandarius Cucutus canorus Otus seops Athene noctua Apus apus Apus pallidus ApU5 melba Merops apiaster Coraeias garrulus
148
Kingfisher Hoopoe
Catandra Lark ShorHoed Lark Crested Lark Skylark Sand Martin Swallow Red-ru mped Swallow House Martin
Tawny Pipit Black-headed Wagtail Pied Wagtail
Whealear Pied Wheatear Blackbird Cetti's Warbler Great Reed Warbler Blue Tit Great Tit Rock Nuthatch Penduline Tit Golden Oriole Red-backed Shrike Lesser Grey Shrike
Woodchat Shrike Magpie Jackdaw
Carrion Crow Starling House Sparrow Tree Sparrow
Chaffinch Greenfinch Goldfinch Linnet Reed Bunting Black·headed Bunting Corn Bunting
Alcedc atthis Upupa epops Melanocorypha caJandra CalandrelJa brachydactyla Galerida cristata Alauda arvensis
Riparia riparia Hirundo rustica Hirundo daurica Delichon urbica Anthus campeslris Molacilla flava feldegg Motacil/a alba Oenanthe oenanthe Oenanthe pleschanka Turdus merula Cettia celli Acrocephalus arundinaceus Parus caeru/eus Parus major Sit/a neumayer Remiz penduNnus Oriolus oriolus Lanius col/urio Lanius minor Lanius senator Pica pica Corvus monedula Corvus corone Sturnus vulgaris Passer domesticus Passer montanus Fringilla coe/ebs Carduelis chloris Carduelis carduelis Carduelis cannabina Emberiza schoeniclus Emberiza melanocephala Miliara calandra
MEDASSET
Meeresschildkroten-Projekt 1991 Strandbeschreibungen ASSOCIATION TO SAVE
Region:
Minlere Koordinaten:
Strand-NUlllmer:
Datum des Strandbesuchs:
linge:
Mittlere Breite (s. auch Beschreibung):
Begrenzung (s. auch Skizze):
Beschreibung (wichtig: Art des Materials, aus dem der Strand 3ufgebauI is! sowie dessen KOrnigkcil,
Verdichlung etc.: Vcgetalionsdecke):
• Men$Chlic:he Nutzung:
VerschmuU:ung
(f.A~r
und Slraocl, auch PholopolIUlion):
Gebietsskiue u. sonstige Bemerkungel1;
Film-Nr.:
MOliv-Beschreibung:
Beobachter:
Aulnahme-Nr.:
Schuu:Slalua (soweit bekannt):
Fauna (auGer MeeresschildkrOlenj:
Meeresschlldkrolen:
-
-
-
-
----MED ASSET < m
Meeresschildkrotenprojekt 1991
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Strand·Nr.
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Form d. Spur
Nest Ja/neln/unklar
Enlfernung vom Wasscr
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ASSOCIATION TO SAVE
lid. Nr.
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Bemcrkungen
154
Colour plates captions
Fig. 1. Sand dunes are very fragile ecosystems. There are still many unspoilt dunes in the Northern Aegean. Fig. 2. The Nestos delta (here the beach to the east of the river mouth) has long, unspoilt beaches with a rich wild life. Sea turtles occur offshore.
Fig. 3. Driving on the beach with vehicles too easily damages and disrupts the fragile coastal ecosystem. Fig. 4. The coast is a dynamic system. The roots in the background indicate that there is heavy erosion and the sea takes back land. Fig. 5. The beaches of Samothraki are among the cleanesl in the North Aegean Sea. This beach would be too stony for sea turtle nesting. Fig. 6. Rivers bring a tot of nutrients into the sea and make the North Aegean Sea attractive to sea turtles. The photograph shows the mouth of the Nestos River. Fig. 7. River deltas. like the Evros delta on the photograph, provide important feeding and breeding grounds for many bird species. The shores. however. are often too flat and too muddy for sea turtle nesting. Fig. 8. The sandy beaches often form an interesting habitat together with sand dunes, Mediterranean phrygana and coastal reedy wet lands. Fig. 9. Rather remote beaches can still be found lacking tourist pressure - as ye!. Fig. 10. The North Aegean Sea holds an important non·nesting population of the Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta). Most of the individuals are immature. Fig. 11. Although this turtle track on Limnos Island shows that sea turtles emerge from the sea onto the beach in the North Aegean Sea. nesting does not occur, at least not on a regular basis. Fig. 12. Many of the North Aegean beaches are used 100% for tourism. Sea turtle nesting would be impossible. Fig. 13. Tourist development on the North Aegean beaches. Most tourist installations are not well-adapted to the landscape. Fig. 14. Pollution of the coast near Nea Kavali. Oil barrels have been dumped and have leaked. A lake of oil is formed. Fig. 15. Other pollution at Nea Kavali. Rubbish has infilled this dry stream bed. Winter rains will fill the bed again with water and wilt wash all the rubbish into the sea.
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