Shagany-Alibei-Burnas Lakes System. 23/11/95; Odeska Oblast; 19,000 ha; 45°48'N 029°55'E. Three shallow limans (brackish lagoons) of the Black Sea, set in a closed drainage area and thus subject to drought and intensive sea currents. The lakes are separated from the sea by a sandy spit. The site includes a sandy shell bar, peninsulas, and islands. Vegetation consists of salt meadows and numerous species of aquatic plants. Over 1,000 pairs of waterbirds nest at the site, including nationally and internationally threatened species. The site supports internationally important numbers of Rufibrenta ruficollis and is an important staging, breeding and wintering area for numerous species of waterbirds. Human activities include conservation education, traditional fishing, recreation, and scientific research. Ramsar site no. 763. Most recent RIS information: 1998.