Detwah Lagoon, Protected lagoon in Qulensya Wa Abd Al Kuri District, Yemen.
Detwah Lagoon covers an expansive coastal area with sandy shores bordered by limestone cliffs rising steeply from the water. Extensive seagrass meadows carpet the lagoon floor, creating productive habitat throughout the shallow waters.
Protection of the site began in 2000, followed by international recognition as Yemen's first Ramsar wetland site in 2007. These designations reflected growing commitment to conserving the region's natural resources.
Local fishing families work these waters using methods taught by their ancestors, shaping how the community connects with the lagoon today. The practices remain part of daily life here, reflecting long-standing relationships between people and this coastal space.
The lagoon is accessible from Socotra Island, where local accommodations and guides help arrange nature observation visits. Weather conditions and water access can vary, so plan visits with flexibility in mind.
Egyptian vultures and Socotra cormorants breed here, making this one of their most important nesting locations during seasonal cycles. These seabirds rely on the shallow waters as a critical stopover during their yearly journeys between distant regions.
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