The Oropos lagoon from the west. Two little egrets (Egretta garzetta) just visible

The municipality of Oropos is situated 51 km north of Athens. The municipality covers a very big area, starting from the sea (South Evia golf) and ranging up to the mountain of Parnes.

One of its most beautiful areas, though unbeknown to most people, are its wetlands that include a lagoon that is a nesting and breeding ground for many birds.

A folk of wild ducks flying over the Oropos lagoon.

The wetland area has been shrinking due to pressure from residential demand. About 71 ha survive at the moment in good or medium condition. Part of this area is claimed as private property. One may view the wetland in Google maps here.

Daisies (Anthemis maritima) and three-horned-stock (Matthiola tricuspidata) grow in the Oropos wetlands. Behind them, the residential area overlooks menacingly.

As the wind conditions are very favorable, kite surfing athletes congregate at the sea side edge of the lagoon, intensifying the pressure on the wetland ecosystem.

Kite surfing offers an interesting spectacle, but increase too much the pressure on the Oropos wetlands ecosystem.

The Oropos wetlands are ideal for bird watching activities. More than 180 bird species have been recorded, with 54 belonging to protected species. It is estimated that in winter or spring periods, an observer may easily spot 50 – 60 different bird species.

A pair of wild swans swimming at Oropos lagoon.

The wetland’s conservation and hindering of further settlers’ pressure could develop Oropos wetlands into an important tourist attraction of the area.