Bird Communities and the Rehabilitation of Al Karaana Lagoons in Qatar

Abstract

Qatar, a peninsular country in the Persian Gulf, is significant to avian species due to its location along the African–Eurasian Flyway, a key migratory path. Receiving untreated domestic and industrial liquid waste from Qatar in the past, Al Karaana Lagoons have since been reconstructed as an artificial wetland to address the growing environmental concern posed by contamination build-up. This study documents the changes in biodiversity at Al Karaana Lagoons following their environmental remediation. Data collected (2015 and 2017) by Ashghal (Public Works Authority) prior to project implementation was analyzed alongside data collected independently following project completion (2019–2021). There was a marked increase in bird biodiversity following remediation, including substantial use by migratory species and resident breeders. Further analysis of water quality data of the TSE (treated sewage effluent) ponds shows that they are eutrophic but still support substantial bird life. The project’s success demonstrates how reclaimed lands can provide important habitats to local and migratory birds and encourages similar restoration efforts in the future in both Qatar and elsewhere. We call for the continued monitoring of the site and the implementation of guidelines for the use of the site that balance human activities and habitat quality.