Altogether, the Black Sea Region covers just 0.3% of the EU territory but it is nevertheless sufficiently distinct in character to be in a category of its own. The sea in particular has an important influence on the climate of the region. The humid coastal air currents moderate the otherwise harsh continental weather. As a result, the winters are generally milder along the coast than further inland, with temperatures hovering just below freezing, whilst in summer a pleasant sea breeze helps to keep the heat down.

Behind the shoreline, a series of coastal lakes, marshes and lagoons are strategically located to act as stepping stones for these birds. Some stay only a short while, others overwinter here. Wintering populations typically build up from late November and reach a peak during mid-January to mid-February. At this time the wetlands and surrounding fields are a riot of colour and bustling sounds. But then just as mysteriously as they appeared, they are gone again.

The most famous wetland is of course the Danube Delta which extends over 4,500 km². It is the largest wetland in Europe after the Volga Delta and hosts an incredible diversity of plants and animals, many of which are extremely rare in the rest of the EU. Little surprise therefore that it is one of the top biodiversity hotspots in Europe, and possibly even amongst the 50 most important wetlands in the world. The only way around this immense water world is by boat, but once inside the delta, a fantastic wildlife experience awaits – little wonder that the place is fast becoming a magnet for eco-tourists.

In the past 50 years, the Black Sea Region has seen many land-use changes. These are continuing today.