STATUS AND CONSERVATION OF DUCKS IN DALMAJ WETLANDS, SOUTHREN IRAQ

Over the period, January to December (2013), a systematic study was conducted in Hor Al-Dalmaj wetlands in southern Iraq targeting studying the status of Duck species in this area. Dalmaj area is one of the most important, key wetlands in Iraq that is considered as one of the key wintering area for extremely large numbers of Waterbirds (including the waders, ducks, swans, geese, and other Waterfowl species). Large numbers of ducks use Dalmaj wetlands for breeding and wintering, and during their passage periods as well of which most of these ducks are facing serious threat of illegal hunting either by netting or shooting. The current paper shades the light on these facts and proposes set of measurements to be taken as part of the conservation program for these important Waterfowl species.