Dayet Srji: The Seasonal Wonder
Dayet Srji emerges as a seasonal salt lake, appearing dramatically when winter rains fill this natural desert basin. This temporary water body creates an unexpected wetland in the desert, drawing birds from across the region. During wet periods, the lake’s shallow waters provide essential feeding grounds, while its edges create vital resting spaces for both resident and migratory species.
The lake’s salinity creates specific conditions that support specialized water birds. When filled, the brackish waters host small crustaceans and aquatic insects, providing rich feeding opportunities. Wading birds probe the shallows, while ducks and occasional flamingos filter the nutrient-rich waters. The lake’s appearance and disappearance create a natural rhythm that birds have followed for generations.
Yasmina Lake: The Desert’s Permanent Oasis
At the foot of Erg Chebbi’s towering dunes, Yasmina Lake provides a permanent water source in this arid landscape. Unlike its seasonal neighbor, this small but reliable lake offers year-round refuge for desert wildlife. Its position against the massive dunes creates a stunning backdrop while providing shelter from desert winds.
The lake’s permanent nature makes it a crucial stopover for birds crossing the Sahara. Throughout the year, it serves as a dependable water source for resident desert species, while also attracting passing migrants that use it as a vital refueling station on their long journeys.
A Tale of Two Lakes
These two water bodies, though different in nature, complement each other in supporting Merzouga’s bird life. Dayet Srji’s seasonal abundance creates periodic bursts of activity and opportunity, while Yasmina Lake’s reliability ensures year-round survival for desert-dwelling species. Together, they form a complex system that enriches the region’s biodiversity.
The lakes demonstrate nature’s resilience and adaptability. Birds adjust their behavior according to water availability, moving between these oases as conditions change. Their presence transforms these desert water bodies into dynamic ecosystems, where the harsh reality of the Sahara meets the life-giving properties of water.
