Kirkon-Vilkkiläntura Bay. 02/02/04; Southern Finland; 194 ha; 60°31'N 027°42'E. Natura 2000 SPA, WHCP. A shallow and sheltered sea bay on the coast of the Gulf of Finland, connected to the sea through two narrow sounds. The eastern part, Vilkkiläntura, is characterized by an extensive reed zone and narrow alluvial meadows fringed with a zone of Black Alder; the western part, Kirkontura, has risen above the average sea level and is characterized by extensive sedge meadows with only a small open-water area. The bay is an exceptionally important staging area for waterfowl, as for Whooper Swans, Bewick's Swans and Smews, and waders in migration periods. The breeding waterfowl include 14 species of which 7 are listed in the EU Birds Directive Annex I. Eutrophication and overgrowing are accelerated by agriculture, nearby fish farming and earlier wastewaters. Planned conservation measures include mowing, dredging and increasing of grazing to stop overgrowing of the wetland. The area is a very popular birdwatching site especially in spring. Two birdwatching towers have been constructed and outdoor recreation has a significant value. Ramsar site no. 1512. Most recent RIS information: 2005.