1. Protected areas

Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve

Status
Designated
IUCN category
II (National Park)
Designation type
National
Designation
National Park and Reserve
Surface area
10 square kilometers
Status year
1968
Governing type
Federal or national ministry or agency
Owner type
Not Reported
Management authority
Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS)
Management plan
Yes it has a management Plan
Body

Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is a protected area located on the coast of Kenya.

Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve:

  • Area Size: The marine park and reserve cover an area of approximately 10 square kilometers (about 3.86 square miles).

  • Designation Date: Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve was designated as a protected area on January 5, 1968.

  • Management: The park and reserve are managed by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) in collaboration with other stakeholders, including local communities and conservation organizations.

  • IUCN Status: The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) status of Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve is typically classified as a Category II protected area, which includes national parks and similar areas for the protection of ecosystems and natural beauty.

  • Biodiversity: Watamu Marine National Park and Reserve are known for their rich marine biodiversity and coral reef ecosystems. Some key features and aspects of the biodiversity in the park and reserve include:

    • Coral Reefs: The park is home to extensive coral reefs, including fringing reefs and barrier reefs, which provide habitat for a wide variety of marine life.

    • Fish Species: The park is teeming with a diverse range of fish species, including colorful reef fish, large predators like barracudas and groupers, and various species of jacks and snappers.

    • Invertebrates: The coral reefs are also inhabited by numerous invertebrates such as crabs, sea urchins, and a wide array of marine invertebrates.

    • Marine Turtles: Watamu is a significant nesting area for endangered sea turtles, including green turtles and hawksbill turtles.

    • Dolphins and Whale Sharks: The waters around Watamu are occasionally visited by dolphins and whale sharks, providing opportunities for marine wildlife viewing.

    • Birdlife: The adjacent coastal areas also support a variety of bird species, making it a destination for birdwatchers

  • https://www.kws.go.ke/content/watamu-marine-national-park-reserve

“Haven of the Green Turtle”

Source KWS Watamu NP
Turtle KWS Website

Green turtles, unique coral gardens, the Gede Ruins – the Watamu Marine National Park & Reserve has it all. The park is part of a complex of marine and tidal habitats along the Kenya’s north coast with rich and diverse bird life, fish, turtles and dugongs. Visitors can enjoy the white sandy beaches, snorkeling, water skiing, windsurfing and glass bottomed boat tours.

Photo Source KWS