Khawr Ghawi and the Pink Lagoons of Oman
On the southeast coastal line of Oman, a bit below the tip of Ras Madrakah and close to the new town of Al Kahil, there is a 6-km-long tidal inlet that stretches parallel to the coast. Its central lake, Khawr Ghawi, is well-known to the birdwatchers of the region for its clear waters and impressive biodiversity, with flamingos and other wintering or passing waterbirds often being sighted there. The northern end of the lake is open to the sea, while its periphery is protected by a long, sandy barrier beach, extensive intertidal mudflats, dunes, and salt-tolerant vegetation, including mangroves.
Around Khawr Ghawi, one passes by several smaller meres which are highly saline and home to little more than pinkish blooms of algae – their distinctive colour designing the Pink Lagoons of Oman. The salty crust that covers the area is often used by the local fishermen to dry their catch.
The region is relatively pristine due to its remoteness and sparse populace. As such, the site supports much larger numbers of birds than other khawrs (or khors, meaning “ravines” in Arabic) in southern Oman. Few campers find their way there – the area is not recommended for camping anyway due to its unwelcoming terrain – and it is mostly adventurous passersby and locals who explore its secrets. Unfortunately, this has not managed to prevent piles of plastic garbage from accumulating among the dunes, ravaging the khawr and the remaining strands of human dignity on which we desperately try to hold.
We reached the khawr at midday, which is not recommended for birdwatching. Hence, we were not graced with the presence of any bird and were left only with the memory of the pink lagoons in our minds.
Photo credits: © Konstantina Sakellariou
