Saluga and Ghazal protected area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saluga and Ghazal protected area |
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 Saluga and Ghazal protected area
Location in Egypt
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| Location | Aswan, Egypt |
The Saluga and Ghazal Protected Area is a special nature reserve in southern Egypt. It's known for being one of the smallest reserves, covering less than half a square kilometer. This area is made up of several small islands in the famous Nile River.
This unique reserve is found in the Aswan Governorate. It's located right at the first waterfall of the Nile, about 3 kilometers north of the Aswan Reservoir. To the south, you'll find Suhail Island, and to the north are Esposarte, Amun, and the beautiful Botanical Garden (also called El Nabatat Island).
The reserve gets its name from two of its most important islands. "Saluja" means "waterfall" in the Nubian language. The name "Ghazal Island" likely comes from an old plant that used to grow there. In 1986, the Prime Minister of Egypt officially declared this area a nature reserve. This was done to protect the amazing variety of plants and animals, especially those that are endangered.
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What Makes Saluga and Ghazal Special?
Even though it's small and sits in the middle of the Nile, this reserve is full of different living things. It's home to many animals and a wide range of plants. The beautiful scenery, with its quiet plant life and the calm Nile waters, makes it a popular spot for visitors.
Animals of the Reserve
The Saluga and Ghazal Protected Area is a safe place for many creatures. You might see animals like camels, goats, and wild donkeys. Hyenas and the red fox (also known as the Egyptian fox) also live nearby. While the red fox doesn't live on the islands all the time, it often swims across the Nile from the west bank to build its dens there.
Birds of Saluga and Ghazal
More than 60 types of birds live in or visit the reserve. Some of these birds are residents, meaning they live there all year. Others are migratory, flying through during certain seasons. Sadly, some of these birds are in danger of disappearing forever. The most famous and rare bird here is the black ibis, which has become a symbol for the reserve.
Plant Life in the Reserve
The plant life in Saluga and Ghazal is very rich and easy to see. There are over 90 different kinds of plants growing on these islands. The mix of lush green plants and the sparkling water of the Nile creates a truly stunning landscape. This natural beauty makes the reserve an important place for tourists to visit and enjoy.
