Bird-lakes of Rantasalmi. 02/02/04; Eastern Finland; 1,109 ha; 62°01'N 028°24'E. Natura 2000, SPA and partly SCI, WHCP, Mire Conservation Programme. A diverse and representative complex characterized by flood meadows, reedbeds and a range of different mire types. All four wetland areas of the site are connected to Lake Haukivesi. Putkilahti-Ruskeaperä is a shallow lake with extensive growths of water horsetail and common reed, with flood meadows and poor fens of about 20 different mire types. Both lakes Kosulanlampi and Pieni Raudanvesi are in process of overgrowing with diverse vegetation. The area of Vaahersalonlampi is a narrow sound of Lake Haukivesi, surrounded by extensive sedge meadows and an alder zone, which gradually transforms into pasturage with diverse meadows and an old-growth silver birch forest. Overgrowing of all lakes is caused by the discharge of effluent waters, and a peat mining area nearby increases the humus contents of the lake. Concurrently American Mink and Raccoon Dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) populations may cause damage to the breeding of birds. Overall, the traditional pasturing forms the valuable shape of the cultural landscape and two birdwatching towers have been constructed to serve recreational and natural interests. Ramsar site no. 1503. Most recent RIS information: 2005.