The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

The Annotated Ramsar List: Sweden

The Annotated Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance

SWEDEN / SUEDE / SUECIA

The Convention on Wetlands came into force for Sweden on 21 December 1975. Sweden presently has 51 sites designated as Wetlands of International Importance, with a surface area of 514,506 hectares.

site; date of designation; region, province, state; surface area; coordinates
site; date de désignation; région, province, état; superficie; coordonnées
sitios; fecha de designación; región, provincia, estado; área; coordenadas

Aloppkölen-Köpmankölen. 19/11/01; Jämtland; 20,100 ha; 62°39'N 013°35'E. Includes Nature Reserve. A representative example of a natural wetland type (non-forested peatland) in the EU alpine region, the site consists of a large mire complex southwest of Lake Storsjön. Amongst the diverse kinds of fens, mires, peat bogs, and wet forests, solid ground 'islets' with a large number of dead pines Pinus sylvestris give the area a "distinct wilderness feel". Ornithological values are high, and the large carnivores Ursus arctos, Gulo gulo, Lynx lynx, and Canis lupus have been observed. Like much of northern Sweden, the area and its surroundings are used for reindeer husbandry by the local Sami population. Ramsar site no. 1113. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Ånnsjön. 05/12/74; Jämtland; 11,000 ha; 63º16’N 012º33’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Bird Sanctuaries. A large nutrient-poor, freshwater lake surrounded by extensive mires, in the upper Indal River. The site includes marshland, a sandy ridge, eroded peat steps, and spectacular waterfalls. The area is also important for wintering raptors and supports a rich assemblage of breeding wetland birds. Human activities include fishing and general recreation. Ramsar site no. 26. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Asköviken-Sörfjärden. 19/11/01; Södermanland, Västmanland; 12,200 ha; 59°28'N 016°41'E. Nature Reserves. Two sizable bays of Lake Mälaren and an archipelago of some 160 islands and isles between them, representative of a near-natural wetland type (freshwater lake and permanent marshes) in the EU Boreal region. Because of the special local climate, the area harbors several species favored by mild temperatures, known as "heat-depending relict species", the remains of a previous flora and fauna that was more widespread in warmer periods. The site supports more than 23,000 waterbirds and also qualifies under one of the fish criteria by virtue of its support for a significant proportion of several species, including the eel Anguilla anguilla and the European pike-perch or zander Stizostedion lucioperca. More than 75 globally and nationally red-listed species are present, including birds, fish and molluscs, fungi, moss and lichen, and insects. Human settlements are known from the 11th century, and a 17th century royal shipyard in the archipelago favored the cultivation of oak. Agriculture, forestry, and grazing are important activities, and the natural and culture beauty of the landscape make it very attractive for recreation and tourism. Ramsar site no. 1114. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Åsnen. 12/06/89; Kronoberg; 16,800 ha; 56º37’N 014º43’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves, Bird Sanctuaries. A large nutrient-poor, freshwater lake with embayments and islands bordered by meadows and marshland subject to flooding. Vegetation includes coniferous and deciduous forest, scattered Pinus sylvestris, and several bogs. An internationally important staging area for migratory Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans), including up to 2,500 Anser fabalis, A. anser, and 15,000 Mergus merganser, the site supports various species of breeding waterbirds. A rich variety of fish occur, including several rare species. Human activities include livestock grazing, fishing, and recreation. The continuation of traditional grazing is essential for maintaining the ecological character of the wet meadows. Ramsar site no. 429. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Blekinge archipelago. 19/11/01; Blekinge; 12,500 ha; 56°07'N 015°21'E. Nature Reserves. The three separate parts of the site along the southeast coast of the country all include isles, islands, coastal areas with intertidal marshes, beaches, and rocky shores, and the waters between. The area supports more than 100 nationally red-listed species, primarily insects and birds, and more than 20,000 waterbirds, especially ducks, gulls, and cormorants. Remains of medieval house foundations and ancient graves can be seen on some islands, and preservation of the cultural landscape in this area is seen to be of national interest. Twelve nature reserves exist within or partially within the site, all with management plans in place. Ramsar site no. 1115. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Dalälven-Färnebofjärden. 19/11/01; Västmanland, Gävleborg, Dalarna; 17,300 ha; 60°13'N 016°47'E. Includes National Park and Nature Reserves. The lower part of the River Dalälven where it emerges from hilly landscape onto a more flat and open countryside, widening and forming a series of broad, shallow pools. Situated at the limit of the vegetation types of northern and southern Sweden, the site has a rich diversity of mires, riverside meadows, birch and alder fens, marsh meadows, peat bogs, and shore fens. Flooding is common, and flood control is an important function of the site. The fauna is also diverse, especially in birds and fish species, and the mosquito Aedes rossicus is present in its largest populations in Sweden. Because of the wilderness character of the area, its diverse fauna, and attractive landscape, it is well known for birdwatching, hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Ramsar site no. 1116. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Dättern. 12/06/89; Västra Götaland; 4,010 ha; 58º23’N 012º37’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation. A shallow, nutrient-rich freshwater bay, fringed by reedbeds, at the southwest end of Lake Vänern. The nutrient-rich waters support abundant plankton and are regarded as one of the most important spawning areas in Sweden for the fish Lucioperca lucioperca. Large numbers of migratory Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans) and waders stage in the area. Human activities include livestock grazing and fishing. Maintaining traditional grazing is essential for maintaining the ecological character of the meadows. Extended in November 2001 to include part of the river Nossan that is important for spawning asp (Aspius aspius). Ramsar site no. 432. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Dumme mosse. 19/11/01; Jönköping; 3,350 ha; 57°47'N 014°01'E. Includes Nature Reserve and a bird sanctuary. A large, diverse mire complex representative for the region and with great ornithological and hydrological values, situated in a sandy flatland with eskers. In the northern end of the site, near the Domneå dam, 164 bird species have been observed, of which 90 are nesting fairly regularly. Ramsar site no. 1117. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Emån. 19/11/01; Kalmar; 1,580 ha; 57°09'N 016°22'E. The lower reaches and mouth of the Emån river, containing many representative wetland types and extraordinary fish diversity. The river is broad and calm in most places, with large seasonal variations in water levels and annual flooding of large areas. It is one of the largest continuous wetland areas in the country, with vast areas of reeds, marsh meadow, waterlogged marshland, and meadows bordering the river. The river valley has been put to human use since the Stone Age and several sites are of national interest for cultural history, including remains of an early barrage near the mouth of the river. Conditions for recreation and tourism, especially sport fishing, are very good. Ramsar site no. 1118. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Falsterbo-Foteviken. 05/12/74; Skåne; 7,530 ha; 55º25’N 012º55’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. A complex of shallow coastal waters, sandbanks, lagoons, sand and shingle beaches, coastal meadows, moors, damp heaths and some cultivated land. The coastline is constantly changing as a result of erosion and deposition. The site is one of the most important gathering points in northern Europe for migrating shorebirds and raptors. It supports nationally important numbers of various species of wintering waterbirds. Human activities include livestock grazing, recreation, and water sports. Ramsar site no. 14. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Fylleån. 19/11/01; Halland; 910 ha; 56°40'N 012°55'E. Nature Reserves, Bird Sanctuaries. The site encompasses the lower parts and mouth of the river Fylleån on the west coast, largely untouched by hydrological interventions and with good water quality. Interesting plant life is supported by old meanders, overgrowing oxbow lakes, and regularly flooded wetlands, as well as by the well-preserved sand dune landscape at the coast. The river is highly valued for its richness in nationally red-listed salmon Salmo salar and brown trout Salmo trutta, for both of which it provides important reproduction sites. The coastal stone fields contain graves from the early Iron Age in Scandinavia, and there are a large number of archaeological and ancient cultural remains in the area. Because of the open landscape, scenic beauty, diverse nature, and richness in monuments, the area is highly valued for recreation and tourism. Ramsar site no. 1119. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Gammelstadsviken. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 436 ha; 65º38’N 022º00’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. The site includes a freshwater lake with areas of floating aquatic vegetation and extensive marshes. It is a 4 km long tied-off bay of the Baltic sea which was relatively recently converted from a lagoon into a eutrophic lake by land uplift processes. The site forms a northern outpost for many southern plant and animal species. About 150 species of vascular plants have been noted to occur within the site, notably Glaux maritima and Deschampsia bottnica. The site is important for breeding and migratory birds. Some 200 species of birds have been observed in the area, including at least 12 species of breeding raptors. Ramsar site no. 27. Most recent RIS information: 2007.

Getterön. 05/12/74; Halland; 450 ha; 57º08’N 012º14’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. A former island now become a shallow coastal embayment partly enclosed and desalinated as a result of causeway construction. The brackish bay has freshwater inflow and supports reedbeds and coastal meadows. The area is used as a hunting ground by wetland raptors such as Pandion haliaetus and Falco peregrinus and supports various species of breeding wetland birds. Extended by 110 ha in November 2001.Ramsar site no. 19. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Gotland, east coast. 05/12/74; Gotland; 4,900 ha; 57º07’N 018º28’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. A composite site made up of four separate sectors consisting of a shallow sandy bay, low-lying coastline, and small islands. Habitats include grazed meadows of varying degrees of wetness and extensive gravel banks. The complex is of international importance as a staging area for migrating Branta leucopsis and molting Anser anser. It is important for various species of breeding waterbirds. Numerous species of waders and Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans) stage in the area, including Cygnus columbianus bewickii. The continuation of traditional grazing is essential for maintaining the site’s value for breeding and staging birds. Access is restricted. Site boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 21. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Helgeån. 05/12/74; Skåne; 8,050 ha; 56º00’N 014º13’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. The lower part of Scania’s largest river made up of nutrient-rich freshwater lakes, reedbeds, scrub, and extensive pasture. The site is subject to regular flooding and is a key area in Scania for various species of breeding waterbirds. Thousands of ducks and internationally important numbers of Anser fabalis (10,000-15,000) stage at the site. The area also supports several scarce plant species. The site is noted for its innovative nature tourism activities. Boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 16. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Hjälstaviken. 05/12/74; Uppsala; 770 ha; 59º40’N 017º23’E. Natura 2000 SPA, SCI, Nature Reserve. A shallow, almost completely enclosed freshwater embayment, characterized by extremely clear water and overgrown by reedbeds. The wetland is surrounded by damp pasture, giving way to drier grassland and arable fields, with patches of deciduous and coniferous woodland. The area is important for wintering raptors, including Haliaetus albicilla; supports various species of breeding waterbirds, staging waders and Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans). Ramsar site no. 25. Most recent RIS information: 2006.

Hornborgasjön (lake). 05/12/74; Västra Götaland; 6,510 ha; 58º19’N 013º33’E. Nature Reserves, Bird Sanctuary. Formerly one of Sweden’s most important sites for breeding and staging waterbirds, the site, an artificially regulated freshwater lake, became overgrown by reedbeds; subsequently, the site of one of the most successful and innovative lake restoration projects in the world. The lake is of international importance for staging Grus grus (5,000 birds in spring and 2,000 in autumn) and Philomachus pugnax (1,000), and supports an interesting range of breeding waterbirds. Two visitors’ centers, trails, and observation hides are maintained. Subject of a Ramsar Advisory Mission in 1988. Boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 22. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Hovran area (river). 12/06/89; Dalarna; 4,860 ha; 60º20’N 016º03’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. Part of the Dalälven River and numerous nutrient-rich freshwater lakes surrounded by meadows. Water levels are artificially regulated. The site is internationally important for staging various species of wetland birds. Breeding species include Podiceps auritus, Pandion haliaetus, and Numenius arquata. Extended in 2001. Ramsar site no. 437. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Kallgate-Hejnum. 19/11/01; Gotland; 1,650 ha; 57°41'N 018°42'E. Includes Nature Reserve. A large complex of wetland, flat rockland, and forest on limestone bedrock on the island of Gotland in the Baltic Sea. The site's many springs and high water quality contribute to its importance as a water reservoir. Several rare plant species are present, including fen pondweed Potamogeton coloratus, found only on this island within Sweden, and 26 species of orchids can be seen. Forestry, drainage, and road construction just outside the site are believed to be having some negative impact upon its flora and fauna. Ramsar site no. 1120. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Kilsviken. 12/06/89; Värmland; 9,090 ha; 59º03’N 014º04’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. The site consists of three bays varying from nutrient-poor to nutrient-rich and numerous islands. Lush submerged vegetation and broad reedbeds and meadows are supported. The forested islands are partly submerged terminal moraines and fluvio-glacial ridges. The area is important for various species of breeding wetland birds. Nationally important numbers of Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans) and waders use the site for staging. Human activities include deer and cattle grazing, recreation, agriculture and fishing. Boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 434. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Klingavälsån-Krankesjön. 05/12/74; Skåne; 3,970 ha; 55º37’N 013º38’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. An extensive area around the Klingavälsån River made up of shallow nutrient-rich lakes, meandering streams, marshes, and meadows. The site is important for wintering raptors and breeding waders and wetland passerines. It also includes one of Sweden’s most productive lake fisheries. Ramsar site no. 15. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Komosse. 19/11/01; Jönköping, Västra Götaland; 4,070 ha; 57°41'N 013°42'E. Nature Reserve. Described as one of the most valuable peat bog complexes in northwestern Europe, large, diverse, and little exploited, with representative flora, fauna, and wetland types. Originating as a series of lakes in hilly landscape, the peat bog is thought to have been completely formed around 4000 B.C.; the ground is now flat and precipitation is high, thus wide soaks are common and there is a large pool system that is unusual for this part of the country. With its natural qualities and little human impact, the site is very valuable as a research area for national and international mire researchers in both hydrology and botany. Ramsar site no. 1121. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Kvismaren. 05/12/74; Kvismaren; 780 ha; 59º10’N 015º23’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. Wetlands supporting extensive tracts of reedbeds, interspersed with Salix thickets and surrounded by marshy meadows, woodland and low-lying pasture. The site is internationally important for staging waders and Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans), including large numbers of Anser fabalis. Several species of waterbirds breed at the site. There is an observation hide and tower for the use of visitors. The hydrologic regime is strictly regulated to mitigate flooding. Ramsar site no. 24. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Laidaure. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 4,150 ha; 67º07’N 017º45’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, National Park. A freshwater lake set between mountains and a zone of coniferous forests. The rapidly expanding Rapa River delta includes lagoons and levees supporting willow thickets, which characterize the site. The area is important for various species of breeding ducks and waders, and supports several species of large mammals. Human activities include hiking, canoeing, and fishing. Ramsar site no. 31. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Lundåkra Bay. 19/11/01; Skåne; 1,980 ha; 55°49'N 012°55'E. Includes Nature Reserves. A shallow bay including adjacent shoreline and a small river mouth, which supports significant numbers of wetland birds and constitutes an important area for fish production. The terrestrial part of the site consists mostly of a large flat seashore meadow area, often flooded by the sea and partly waterlogged. The meadows within the northern part of the site (a nature reserve) are wet and more intensively grazed, and offer good breeding habitat for waders, including some nationally red-listed species such as avocet, dunlin, and little tern, all of which nest there regularly. The reserve has value for recreation and tourism, especially sport fishing, and the area has been classified as being of national interest for commercial fishing. Ramsar site no. 1122. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Mörrumsån-Pukavik Bay. 19/11/01; Blekinge; 2,740 ha; 56°09'N 014°45'E. Nature Reserves, Bird Sanctuaries. The site contains areas of high national interest for nature conservation, cultural heritage,and geology, and is one of the foremost areas in Sweden for populations of salmon Salmo salar and brown trout Salmo trutta. The site consists of the lower half of the river Mörrumsån (some 30km in length) and the shore surrounding the bay at the river mouth. Fifteen red-listed species of fungi have been found, and the endemic Hygroaster lacteus is present on small islands in the river. Sport and commercial fishing, chiefly for salmon and trout but also for eel Anguilla anguilla, are of very great importance. Ramsar site no. 1123. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Mossaträsk-Stormyran. 19/11/01; Västernorrland; 950 ha; 63°50'N 017°19'E. Nature Reserve. One of the largest forest-mire complexes in northeastern Sweden, the relatively flat landscape contains a large, well-developed "string flark fen with large flarks [defined as 'seemingly bottomless pools'] and waterlogged areas". As the site is largely unaffected by human activities, water quality and ornithological values are high. As a nature reserve since 1998, a management plan is in place and the site is included in the National Mire Protection Plan. Ramsar site no. 1124. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Nordre älv estuary. 19/11/01; Västra Götaland; 7,210 ha; 57°47'N 011°44'E. Includes Nature Reserves and Bird Sanctuaries. A shallow marine bay around the mouth of the Nordre älv river on the west coast, and 5km of the river itself, with several small sheltered bays and a large number of islands and isles. Large numbers of waterbirds are supported, especially waders and ducks, and fish production is very high and commercially important. The beautiful landscape and cultural history make the area extremely attractive for tourism and recreation, especially boating. Ramsar site no. 1125. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Öland, eastern coastal areas. 05/12/74; Kalmar; 8,460 ha; 56º27’N 016º36’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Bird Sanctuaries. The site includes shallow coastal waters, bays, sandbanks, beaches, wet calcareous meadows, and steppe-like dry meadows on moraine islands. The meadows have been used for grazing and haymaking since the Middle Ages. An important area for passage waders and Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans), and for various species of nesting waterbirds. Efforts are being made to increase grazing where this would be advantageous from a conservation viewpoint. Hunting is prohibited and access is seasonally restricted. Ramsar site no. 18.Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Oldflån-Flån. 19/11/01; Jämtland; 10,100 ha; 63°48'N 013°48'E. A large, unexploited area in northwestern Sweden near the Norwegian border, holding very high ornithological values and a valuable mosaic of wetlands and forests. The site is located in the pre-alpine area, with hilly moraine landscapes and a wide variety of wetland types. The Oldflån area is a highly differentiated mire landscape with several different kinds of mire complexes, such as soligenous fens and marsh forests, with many solid ground 'islets' frequently with virgin spruce forest Picea abies. The Flån area is a mosaic complex with fens, small lakes, and solid ground 'islets', including topogenous soft ground fens, mixed mosaic mires, string flark fens with flark pools and marsh forests. Like many parts of northern Sweden, the area is subject to reindeer husbandry by the local Sami population. Ramsar site no. 1126. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Östen. 12/06/89; Västra Götaland; 1,010 ha; 58º35’N 013º57’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. A nutrient-rich, freshwater lake supporting a rich submerged flora and fringed by reedbeds giving way to grassland. The lake is an internationally important staging area for Cygnus cygnus and Anser fabalis, as well as Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans). Waders occur as passage birds, and various species of waterbirds breed at the site. Some livestock grazing occurs and must be maintained to preserve the meadow flora. Ramsar site no. 433. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Ottenby. 05/12/74; Kalmar; 1,610 ha; 56º12’N 016º24’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. A flat tongue of land supporting grasslands, grading into sand and shingle beaches, sandbanks and small bays. The site’s extensive pastures were probably used for haymaking since the Iron Age. Various species of breeding and molting waterbirds and large numbers of staging waterbirds use the site. The meadows are maintained by grazing livestock. The site is a popular visitor destination, and there is an ornithological station. Ramsar site no. 17. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Persöfjärden. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 3,320 ha; 65º46’N 022º08’E. A site of national importance for nature conservation. A freshwater lake formed when isostatic rise after deglaciation isolated a coastal bay from the sea. Vegetation includes extensive reedbeds, deciduous woodland, and scrub. The site supports various species of breeding and staging wetland birds. Vegetational succession will affect waterbird habitat. Ramsar site no. 28. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Sjaunja. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 188,600 ha; 67º17’N 019º49’E. Within World Heritage Site; Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. An entire catchment of virgin wilderness consisting of a wide range of habitats, including mountain slopes, open marshes, shallow freshwater lakes, Betula woodland, Picea and Pinus forests, and the largest mire in Europe outside the former Soviet Union. Landscape features include moraine ridges, fluvio-glacial channels, and tundra polygons. The rich communities of breeding birds include waterbirds and raptors. The site supports several mammal species. Ramsar site no. 32. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Skälderviken. 19/11/01; Skåne; 1,350 ha; 56°14'N 012°43'E. Nature Reserves. A shallow coastal bay in southwestern Sweden, including adjacent shoreline consisting of grazed meadows, a few islands, sand dunes and shoals, and two small river mouths. The site is an important spawning ground, nursery, and feeding area, especially for flatfish, and is classified as nationally important for commercial fishing. The flat seashore meadows also support a rich birdlife, and the scenic beauty of the area is highly valued for recreation and tourism. Ramsar site no. 1127. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Södra Bråviken. 19/11/01; Östergötland; 3,610 ha; 58°38'N 016°26'E. Nature Reserves. Two shallow bays within the larger Bråviken bay on the Baltic coast, each with a handful of islands, bordered by coastal meadows, steppe meadows, and coniferous and oak forests of high biological value. The area is an important breeding and stopover site for many birds, mainly waterbirds, with more than 230 species recorded, and the site is classified as nationally important for commercial fishing. A few ancient monuments are found within the site. Management plans are in place for two Nature Reserves within and partly within the Ramsar site. Ramsar site no. 1128. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Stigfjorden. 12/06/89; Västra Götaland; 6,940 ha; 58º07’N 011º40’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves, Nature Conservation Area. A large, shallow marine bay fringed by meadows and deciduous forests with many islands. The sea bed is covered by Zostera and Potamogeton spp. Marine currents help keep the area ice-free for long periods during the winter. The area supports an important fishery. Various species of waterbirds and waders and 10 Haliaetus albicilla winter or stage at the site, and molting Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans) are also found. Human activities include livestock grazing, boating, and swimming. Continuation of traditional grazing is important for maintaining the ecological character of the meadows. Boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 431. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Stockholm, outer archipelago. 12/06/89; Stockholm; 15,000 ha; 59º26’N 019º22’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. Four groups of sparsely vegetated islands variously supporting Betula scrub, damp meadows and Juniperus bushes, or moor vegetation. A large breeding colony of Melanitta fusca is supported. Various other nesting waterbirds occur in the archipelago. Human activities include fishing, boating, and swimming. Ramsar site no. 435. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Store Mosse & Kävsjön. 05/12/74; Jönköping; 7,580 ha; 57º18’N 013º57’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve, National Park. Sweden’s most extensive mire complex outside Norrland. The site is a raised bog of western type and includes a mosaic of fen, sand, and moraine interspersed with stands of Pinus sylvestris and dwarf scrub, and a large nutrient-poor lake. Various species of wetland birds breed at the site. An observation and an information tower are maintained for visitors, whose access to the site is seasonally restricted. Ramsar site no. 20. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Storkölen. 19/11/01; Dalarna; 7,040 ha; 61°47'N 012°13'E. Natura 2000 site, Nature Reserves. An undisturbed area of high wetland diversity, rich in lakes and waterlogged areas, greatly valued for its scenic beauty, old forests and high ornithological values. There are large systems of flark pools within the sites, and pools and fen soaks are common. Re-introduction of bean goose Anser fabalis has been carried out successfully. Connection to the nearby Kvisleflået proposed Ramsar site in Norway suggests the possibility of a transboundary Ramsar site. Ramsar site no. 1129. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Sulsjön-Sulån. 19/11/01; Västernorrland; 350 ha; 62°36'N 016°50'E. LIFE and Natura 2000 site, Nature Reserve. Consists of a lake (Sulsjön) and part of the narrow, winding Sulån river, with surrounding mires and small water bodies. The river is one of the most valuable sites in Sweden for the endangered freshwater pearl mussel Margaritifera margaritifera, with some 220,000 individuals. A preliminary snowmobile track has been marked across the reserve to canalize mechanized visitors. Ramsar site no. 1130. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Svartån (river). 12/06/89; Västmanland; 2,230 ha; 59º57’N 016º20’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation. A complex of four nutrient-rich, freshwater lakes connected by the meandering river Svartän, supporting emergent and submerged vegetation and surrounded by low-lying wet meadows. The area is internationally important for staging Cygnus cygnus (up to 1800) and supports a diversity of breeding wetland birds. Maintenance of traditional hay-cutting is subsidized. Boundaries extended in November 2001. Ramsar site no. 436. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Tåkern. 05/12/74; Östergötland; 5,650 ha; 58º21’N 014º49’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. A nutrient-rich freshwater lake supporting reedbeds and submerged vegetation. Important for waterbirds throughout the year, the lake supports various breeding species and is internationally important for staging ducks, geese and waders, including up to 50,000 Anser fabalis. Large numbers of Cygnus olor and Anser anser molt on the lake, and Haliaetus albicilla occurs all year round. Access is restricted over most of the site but there are areas for fishing and duck hunting. The surrounding areas are used for agriculture. Ramsar site no. 23. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Tärnasjön. 05/12/74; Västerbotten; 11,800 ha; 66º00’N 015º29’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. A sub-alpine freshwater lake set in a marshy basin characterized by parallel moraine ridges. The site includes numerous islands, an extensive mire with many small lakes, and a delta virtually unmodified by human activities. Vegetation is dominated by dwarf Betula scrub and a rich shoreline flora. The area supports an important range of breeding waterbirds and raptors. Human activities include reindeer farming, fishing, and recreation. Ramsar site no. 29. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Tavvavuoma. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 28,700 ha; 68º30’N 020º45’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, National Park. An extensive mosaic of mires, watercourses, freshwater lakes, pools, and Betula woodland, set in one of the northernmost plateau regions of Lapland. The vegetation is strongly influenced by permafrost, which has created unusually extensive formations of palsa mires up to 7m in depth. Densities of breeding Anatidae (ducks, geese, swans) and waders reach the regionally high figure of 70 pairs per square kilometre. The area is vulnerable to damage by vehicles, especially when there is no snow cover. The only human activity in the area is reindeer farming. Ramsar site no. 33. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Tjålmejaure-Laisdalen. 05/12/74; Norrbotten; 21,400 ha; 66º15’N 016º11’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves, Bird Sanctuary. Two mountain river valleys that converge to form a large delta. The site includes a series of lakes and supports Betula woodland with sparse Pinus sylvestris. One of the richest mountain valleys for wildlife in Sweden; various large mammals and several species of breeding waterbirds and raptors are supported. Human activities include reindeer farming, forestry, fishing, and hiking. Ramsar site no. 30. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Tönnersjöheden-Årshultsmyren. 19/11/01; Halland, Kronoberg; 12,300 ha; 56°46'N 013°19'E. Nature Reserves. A large wetland complex with a high diversity of wetland types of several different developmental stages, located in the most humid region of southern Sweden. The site contains peat bogs, small lakes, fens, fen soaks, meandering streams, wetland meadows, wet forests and solid ground islets covered by forest. Forestry, agriculture, and grazing are practiced; two military training areas are present but are subject to conservation-oriented management planning. Ramsar site no. 1131. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Träslövsläge-Morups Tånge. 12/06/89; Halland; 1,990 ha; 56º59’N 012º20’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserves. A complex of shallow marine waters and adjacent low-lying wet meadows along a coastline of undulating moraines and mobile sand. Habitats include shallow bays, lagoons, islands, dunes, and moors. The site supports nesting waterbirds and numerous species of staging ducks and waders. Human activities include fishing and general recreation. Continuation of traditional grazing is encouraged. Ramsar site no. 430. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Tysjöarna. 19/11/01; Jämtland; 410 ha; 63°14'N 014°36'E. Bird sanctuary. Two lakes surrounded by a diverse area of mires, wetland forests, coniferous forests, mixed forests and meadows. Flora along the shorelines is extremely lime dependent, and lowered water levels have exposed large areas of marl, supporting vegetation with "a certain alpine feel". The first observation in Sweden of the rare moss Bryum wrightii was made here in 1992. The site is considered one of the most species-rich localities for resting and nesting waders and ducks, and it is a well-destination for ornithologists. Ramsar site no. 1132. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

Umeälv delta. 12/06/89; Västerbotten; 1,040 ha; 63º45’N 020º20’E. Site of National Importance for Nature Conservation, Nature Reserve. The broad, constantly changing delta of the Umeälv River. Vegetation includes emergent and submergent species as well as wet meadows and alluvial forest of Alnus glutinosa. The area is internationally important for staging Anser fabalis (up to 2,600), and supports other staging birds and waders. Up to 700 Mergus merganser molt in the area, and Haliaetus albicilla occurs regularly outside the breeding season. Human activities include fishing and duck hunting. Ramsar site no. 438. Most recent RIS information: 1991.

Västra Roxen. 19/11/01; Östergötland; 4,170 ha; 58°29'N 015°35'E. Nature Reserves. The western part of Lake Roxen and lower parts of three main rivers, the site consists of freshwater areas and adjacent shore meadows, pastures, and marsh-meadows, large parts of which are well managed by grazing and haymaking. The meadows and reedbeds are very rich in nesting and migratory birds, with more than 260 species observed, and a large number of breeding birds included in the national red list can be found in the site. The presence of groves of large and old oak trees favors a rich insect fauna, and the site fulfils Criteria 8 for its spawning grounds and nursery upon which fish stocks depend. The site contains several Bronze Age graves and remains, and the present open landscape created by haymaking and grazing has probably existed from the Stone Age. It is foreseen that the modernization of agriculture, with a cessation of traditional management of pastureland, might pose a problem in the future. Three birdwatching towers are present and the site is frequently visited. Ramsar site no. 1133. Most recent RIS information: 2002.

For further information about the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, please contact the Ramsar Convention Secretariat, Rue Mauverney 28, CH-1196 Gland, Switzerland (tel +41 22 999 0170, fax +41 22 999 0169, e-mail ). Posted 7 February 2000, updated 7 December 2006, Dwight Peck, Ramsar.