6 April 2010

The Kaçkar Mountains at Yusufeli, northeast Turkey, are an area of outstanding importance for biodiversity.

In just 1,800km2 there are no less than three distinct climatic zones and a wide range of altitudes. This unique landscape supports a huge range of wildlife and vegetation including Brown Bears, Caucasian Black Grouse and 28 endemic species of plants.

Two hundred and one species of butterfly can be found here - more than most European countries and more than 50 percent of the 380 species recorded in all Turkey.

Butterfly Conservation was devastated to learn that there are well-developed plans for a series of hydroelectric dams and surface water rerouting throughout the area.

If constructed, the whole region's diversity will be significantly impacted, as will the cultural and ecosystem integrity of this globally important region.

Butterfly loss will be immediate.

Please join our call for the Turkish Government to recognise their obligation to protect the Kaçkar Mountains and it's wildlife.

Sign the petition today