Silma Nature Reserve

Silma Nature Reserve
Visitors' centre located in Saare manor
Location	Estonia
Nearest city	Haapsalu
Coordinates	58°59′50″N 23°38′27″E / 58.99722°N 23.64083°ECoordinates: 58°59′50″N 23°38′27″E / 58.99722°N 23.64083°E
Area	4,795 ha (11,850 acres)

Silma Nature Reserve is a nature reserve situated in south-western Estonia, in Lääne County.

Silma nature reserve covers a vast expanse of lagoons, waterways, islets and coastal meadows, making the area an ideal stopover for migratory birds, with up to 24 percent of the area covered in reed beds. It is considered the second most important area for birds in Western Estonia, second only to Matsalu National Park, and of international importance.^[1][2] It owes its unusual geographical and natural features to the very strong post-glacial rebound in the area, creating lakes and lagoons of areas that were until recently parts of the sea. In addition to 225 different observed species of birds, the nature reserve also plays a function as a fish spawning area of great ecological value.^[3]

A visitors' centre is located in Saare manor house, and throughout the nature reserve hiking trails and six birdwatching towers have been constructed.^[4]

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References

1. "Silma Nature Reserve". Eesti Maaturism. Retrieved 3 May 2013.
2. Silma Nature Reserve (PDF). Estonian Environmental Board. 2012. p. 35.
3. Silma Nature Reserve (PDF). Estonian Environmental Board. 2012. p. 35.
4. "Silma Nature Reserve". Visit Haapsalu. Retrieved 3 May 2013.