The White-headed Duck is one of the endangered breeding bird species in Türkiye. About 80% of the White-headed Duck population breeding in Türkiye is found in the Van Lake Closed Basin. It also gathers critical-size flocks in the region during winters and moulting periods. A study conducted by the Nature Research Society in 2022 recorded 67 breeding pairs of white-headed ducks in various wetlands in Türkiye. Given the high rate of extinction of this endangered species, each breeding pair is crucial to its survival. The flocks of 1000-3000 birds found in Arin Lake, located within the basin, also congregate for molting after breeding and wintering.
The Van Lake Closed Basin, which hosts a significant number of White-headed Ducks, faces numerous threats that negatively impact the species and its habitat. However, stakeholders related to the species have limited knowledge or are completely unaware of the bird and its habitat.
The project aims to contribute to the conservation of the species by carrying out various protection, awareness-raising, and lobbying activities in the region. Awareness-raising activities target local NGOs, communities, and government agencies in the area. Lobbying activities will be carried out with decision-makers who have the responsibility to protect nature. The project also aims to fill the information gap regarding the basic knowledge required for protecting the species.