Tanbi Wetland Complex, Ramsar site near Banjul, The Gambia
Tanbi Wetland Complex is a protected wetland reserve near Banjul covering around 6,000 hectares. Its landscape is dominated by mangrove forests with Avicennia africana and Rhizophora species fringing the western shores of St Mary Island.
The wetland gained international protection when designated as a Ramsar site in 2007. This recognition placed it on the global registry of wetlands of outstanding importance for conservation.
Women from the Jola community continue gathering and roasting oysters from the mangrove forests during the dry season, a practice deeply woven into local life. This tradition sustains both food security and community bonds within the region.
Visitors can arrange boat trips from Denton Bridge that travel through Oyster Creek to Daranka Bolong and explore the estuary. The experience is best during the dry season when water clarity improves and wildlife is easier to observe.
The wetlands host around 360 bird species, including the rare Pel's fishing owl. The area also shelters West African manatees and African clawless otters that rely on these waters for survival.
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