Bird Wetlands of Hailuoto Island. 02/02/04; Oulu; 6,512 ha; 65°00'N 024°45'E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, HELCOM Baltic Sea Protected Area, Finnish Waterfowl Habitats, Mires, Eskers and Shores Conservation Programmes. A number of wetlands distributed all over Hailuoto Island in the Bothnian Bay, a unique area for breeding and migrating birds and important threatened and endemic plant communities. According to estimates more than 35% of the over-wintering populations of continental Europe migrate via Hailuoto Island and nearby coasts, and even summer flocks of waterfowl reach 8,000 Goosanders and 2,000 Goldeneyes. The site is characterized by extensive reedy bays, coastal meadows and sandy shores. The northern shore is formed by a wide esker area. Dunes of various types occur on the shores as well as wrinkling flads and gloes, typical forms of lagoons in the Baltic Sea. Former sea bays with extensive sedge meadows and bush zones, sometimes reedbelts and deciduous forests, sandbanks and countless small islets, reefs and shoals are found in the western and southern parts. Significant values include scientific research on fauna and flora and monitoring of restoration measures as well as environmental education, birdwatching and outdoor recreation activities. Ramsar site no. 1505. Most recent RIS information: 2005.