Kerang Online - Kerangs Ramsar Listed Wetlands

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What are Ramsar listed wetlands? The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance is commonly called the Ramsar Convention after the Iranian town where it was first signed in 1971. This International treaty aims to halt the worldwide loss of Wetlands and to conserve remaining wetlands through sustainable use and management. Australia and over 100 countries have signed this conservation treaty. Wetlands are areas of great natural beauty where people enjoy the scenery and gather for recreation.

Wetlands provide habitat for wildlife and are also breeding grounds for a host of different species. Some of the wetlands in this area are nominated to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance.The various lakes and marshes contain endangered species of native flora and fauna which are of national and international importance.
The Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Site is located on the western edge of the Riverine Plain. It forms part of a system of over 100 permanent and freshwater wetlands comprised of freshwater lagoons, lakes and marshes and saline and hypersaline lakes. This site was chosen for its diverse system of wetlands that support a range of plants and animals.		Wetland features- -Temporary and permanent freshwater and saline lakes and marshes. -Waterbirds, fish and tortoises. -Bird hide at Middle Lake overlooks one of the world's largest Ibis breeding rookies. Activities- Camping, boating and fishing at some of the 22 wetlands listed as part of the Kerang Lakes Ramsar Site. (obtain maps and camping information at Kerang Tourist Information centre.) Facilities-(Varies- depending on the location)- Parking, Boating, Boat Ramps, Swimming, Hiking, Camping, Fishing (fishing licence must be obtained), Bird Watching.
Features of the Kerang Wetlands Ramsar Site include: More than 150 native plant species including 8 that are threatened and more than 102 native animal species. In Victoria 32 of these animal species are listed as threatened, such as the Macquarie Perch, Murray Hardyhead, Warty Bell Frog and Plains-wanderer. Supports an abundant water bird population including the endangered Freckled Duck and Blue-billed Duck. Contains the largest Ibis rookery in Southern Hemisphere. 425 Aboriginal cultural sites registered with Aboriginal Affairs Victoria that were identified within 2 km of watercourses.

To find out more check these pages- Kerang Information Centre Kerang Lakes System Middle Lake Ibis Rookery Birdwatching