Luitemaa

Tolkuse Bog

Luitemaa

  • Country: 
    Estonia
  • Site number: 
    1962
  • Area: 
    11,240 ha
  • Designation date: 
    27-01-2010
  • Coordinates: 
    58°09'N 24°31'E
Materials presented on this website, particularly maps and territorial information, are as-is and as-available based on available data and do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Secretariat of the Ramsar Convention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area, or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries.

Overview

This wetland complex on the south-western coast of Estonia consists of diverse coastal and inland habitats including shallow sea, capes and islands, coastal meadows and reed-beds. Dunes, bogs and dry and wet forest stands are also characteristic of the Site, and many of its habitat types are listed under the EU Habitats Directive. Some of the bog areas cover up to 200 or 300 hectares; they are among the largest of their type in Estonia and Europe. Due to the various habitats, the wetland is very biodiverse, containing more than 250 plant species and hosting 64,500 birds annually. Many of these are internationally or nationally threatened, such as the globally vulnerable lesser white-fronted goose (Anser erythropus), the great snipe (Gallinago media) and the horned grebe (Podiceps auritus). The Site is important for ecotourism, especially for birdwatching, and the nature trail in Tolkuse Bog is one of the most visited in Estonia. Old ditches, overgrowth of reeds and shrubs and tourism activities are among the most notable threats. As of 2018, a management plan was in place for the Site.

Administrative region: 
Pärnu County

  • National legal designation: 
    • Nature Reserve - Luitemaa
  • Regional (international) legal designations: 
    • EU Natura 2000
  • Last publication date: 
    13-07-2020

Downloads

Ramsar Information Sheet (RIS)

Additional reports and documents