Drought drives the Dalmatian pelicans away from the Srebarna Nature Reserve

Due to a lack of rainfall, the water level in Lake Srebarna has dropped to just 15 centimeters, posing a serious threat to the entire ecosystem, reported public service broadcaster BNT. Lake Srebarna is one of the most significant wetlands in Europe and is naturally fed by the Danube River. Environmentalists warn that if the drought continues, there is a risk of increased fish mortality. According to the Regional Inspectorate of Environment and Water – Ruse, the Dalmatian pelicans—a protected species listed in the Red Data Book of Bulgaria —have abandoned the Srebarna Nature Reserve due to the water shortage. To address the issue, experts are studying nearby karst springs that could potentially provide an alternative water supply to the lake.