Lake Kirkkojärvi and Lupinlahti Bay. 02/02/04; Southern Finland; 649 ha; 60°33'N 027°13'E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, WHCP. Kirkkojärvi is composed of several overgrown gloe lakes, and open-water areas cover only 20 percent of the wetland. Gloe lakes are a special type of freshwater lake which have become naturally separated from the sea in recent times; another type, before the separation when it still has some contact to sea, is called flad. These two forms are typical for Finnish coasts because of land upheaval but uncommon elsewhere. Lupinlahti is a long and narrow sea bay with several islands, connected to the sea through four narrow sounds. The site forms a valuable breeding and staging area for a wide variety of wetland birds during migration periods. The main threats are vegetation overgrowing, building pressure on the shores, and plans for constructing a new motorway on the northern side of the bay. The existing causeway with electric lines causes risk especially for large birds; boating activities have increased and cause disturbance to the breeding and migrating birds. Recreational importance of the site is notable in terms of birdwatching and educational activities. Ramsar site no. 1513.Most recent RIS information: 2005.

Southern Finland