Ain Elzarga is a natural sebkha or depression near the town of Darnah, on Libya’s Mediterranean coast, with at least one natural connection to the sea. It is surrounded by dunes from east to west and rocky hills to the south and east. The site is one of the most important wetlands in the area of the Kouf National Park for migratory waterbirds. The birdwatching and ecotourism potential is considerable but undeveloped. Unsustainable hunting and destruction of vegetation, especially during summer, are considered threats.

Ramsar site no. 1027

The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands came into force for the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya on 5 August 2000. Libya presently has 2 sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance, Ain Elshakika and Ain Elzarga, with a total area of 83 hectares.

Reference: www.ramsar.org