The lagoon is analluvial delta by rivers in the easternMediterranean Sea.[5] It is one of four lagoons in the Çukurova Delta.[6] It has 19,853 ha (49,060 acres).[5] The conservation area lies along theTaurus andAmanos mountain chains.[7] The area has both freshwater and coastal habitats, including vegetation of sand dune, salt marsh, stream bank, andruderal types.[5] It is a key stopover and wintering site for migratory birds on the Palaearctic-Africa route.[5][8][6] Threatened species of turtles such asCaretta caretta andChelonia mydas make their home in the lagoon; Yumurtalık Lagoon is the only known wintering site for thegreen sea turtle in the Mediterranean.[5][9][6]
The site was designated as a Natural SIT Area 1st degree under the Conservation Law on Cultural and Natural Assets in 1993.[6] In 1994, it was declared a Nature Conservation Site under the Law on National Parks.[6] On July 21, 2005, it was added to theRamsar Convention List.[6]
