Karinti (Tanjii River) Bird Reserve
Areas of Interest Bald Cape is formed from a shallow reef of laterite rock which extends to the north west reappearing at the Bijol Islands 1.5km offshore. The Cape is backed by a lagoon which runs south into a broken chain as far as the village of Tanji. The lagoon system has developed from a combination of the outflow of the Tanji River and longshore drift accumulating sand deposits. It is a dynamic system and significant changes can result from a single flood or storm. The Cape and lagoons serve as a feeding and roosting grounds for a large diversity of gulls, terns and waders.
Habitat Type - Coastal Dune Scrub Woodland
Avi-Fauna Tanji River Bird Reserve was established primarily for its ornithological importance which is evident from its current species list which totals 259 species from 61 different families, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. This large diversity of birds results from the range of habitats present combined with the location of Tanji on the coast of West Africa. For European migrants, Tanji is one of the first stop offs and offers both a safe haven as well as good feeding opportunities. The offshore Bijol Islands are used as a roosting site by large numbers of gulls, terns, waders and pelicans, and the shallow surrounding reef offers good feeding opportunities also. Thirty four species of Raptor (birds of prey) have been recorded from the reserve which reflects the abundance and diversity of prey. Fauna An impressive range of terrestrial mammals also occupy the area. They include Western Red Colobus, Callithrix Monkey and Patas Monkey, Genet, Civet, Hyena, Porcupine and Bushbuck. The surrounding waters are imporant feeding grounds for green turtle which breed on both the mainland and on the Bijol Islands. The internationally rare monk seal has also been seen there occasionally.
E-mail mcamara @post3.tele.dk Last updated on January 5th, 2019
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[Links][Bantaba] The information on this page was provided by Department of Parks & Wildlife Management, The Gambia. For further information on visiting the protected areas of The Gambia contact the Ecotourism & Training Unit, PO Box 2164, Serrekunda, email wildlife@gamtel.gm
1996-2021 Nijii, All rights reserved. Momodou Camara
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