Umm al Maradim Island

Umm al Maradim Island in late May
Area (Hectares): 
65.00ha
Altitude: 
0 - 5m
Conservation Status: 
Coastguard and Military area
Access: 
Protected / Public Area
General Site Description: 

This island is closest to Qaruh Island and is known to have deep waters surrounding it in which large ships can safely anchor. Another island, further south is Um Al-Maradim, near the latitude of the Saudi border. This also hosts breeding terns and attracts quite a variety of migrants during spring passage.

Ornithological interest: 

There are reports of Bridled and Lesser Crested Tern breeding on the island, but this must be surveyed and quantified. These southern islets have visiting Socotra Cormorants during the summer and during migration unusual vagrants are possible. Although poorly explored for their birds, these islets are Kuwait’s most important areas for nesting Sea Turtles, including both Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate) and Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas).

Other Biodiversity: 

Populations of Indo-pacific Bottlenose Dolphins occur on the way the island Breeding Turtles.

Conservation issues: 

Consider quarterly surveys to assess avian diversity for inclusion as an possible IBA.