An area of Sark, the smallest of the Channel Islands, has for the first time been recognised as a Wetland of International Importance under the international Ramsar Convention.

The site covers four hectares, from the west coast of Sark stretching across the renowned Gouliot Headland to the famous Gouliot Caves.

Announcing the designation, Minister for Biodiversity Barry Gardiner said:

“I am delighted that this rich and beautiful isle has received the recognition and protection of the Ramsar Convention.  The Gouliot Caves and Headland support a thriving wealth of species, making this a significant wetland site. 

“The UK was one of the founding members of the Ramsar Convention, which seeks to ensure that important wetland areas are conserved.  To date we have designated more sites than any other contracting Party.

“There are twenty-one other designated sites within our Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories including Alderney and Jersey in the Channel Islands.  The Gouliot Caves and Headland in Sark are a valuable addition.”

The Gouliot Caves have long been noted as an important habitat for a rich variety of invertebrate life, almost unique in Western Europe.  This rare intertidal habitat contains many endangered species; including sponges, sea anemones, and hydroids.

The Headland above the caves supports a range of coastal ecosystems including coastal grassland and hard rock.  These habitats are home to many rare and endangered species of plants, insects and lichens.

Jo Birch, member of the committee of Chief Pleas, responsible for managing the site said:

“It is important to stress that designating the Gouliot Caves as a Ramsar site will not result in traditional activities such as shore gathering, inshore fishing, angling, or diving being prohibited; conservation and wise use of resources are totally compatible with these pursuits. But we can be proud and aware that our special marine environment, long valued in Sark, is now recognised as significant in a wider context.”  

Michael Beaumont, Seigneur of Sark added:

“This is excellent conservation of biodiversity and we are all delighted.  We hope it will encourage visitors to view the caves and see for themselves the spectacular and extraordinary variety of life within them.”  

The site will be officially designated on 9 April.