Pomorie Wetland Complex (Pomorie Lake, Pomoriysko Ezero). 24/09/02; Burgas; 922 ha; 42°35'N 027°37'E. Protected Area, Natura 2000 (SPA, SCI), IBA. The major part of the site is a shallow coastal hyper-saline lagoon connected to the Black Sea by an artificial canal. Other associated wetland types are estuaries (River Akheloy), salt marshes, sand dunes, reed beds, salt pans, etc. The wetland has been designated chiefly for its uniqueness, as one of the two coastal hyper-saline lagoons in the Black Sea region converted into salinas, but it is also of high importance for the region's biodiversity. It supports many nationally and internationally red-listed plant and animal species - some 269 bird species have been recorded, including three globally threatened ones, and some that are adapted to the hyper-saline conditions. It is an important stopover site for migratory birds and offers suitable conditions for wintering of shellducks, swans, ducks, coots, etc., and for breeding of several species of plovers, avocets, stilts, and terns. The main human uses include sea salt production and the extraction of curative mud. Pomorie Lake Visitor Centre was opened in 2010, two eco-trails have been established and a salt museum explains the 2,000 years of traditional salt production that also give a particular cultural value to the site. (The site was extended in 2012 from 814 ha.) Ramsar Site no. 1229. Most recent RIS information: 2012.