Best Places for Birdwatching in Istanbul: Perfect for Nature Lovers
Istanbul is considered one of the most important cities for bird watching, not only in Turkey but also in Europe. This is because Istanbul is one of the few cities that connects Europe and Asia, and is located right on the route of seasonal migrations of birds between the two continents. Every year, millions of birds pass over Istanbul, either migrating toward Africa or returning north. For nature lovers interested in observing migratory birds during migration seasons and even throughout the year, Istanbul is a true bird paradise. So, where are the best places for bird watching in Istanbul? Let's explore together!
Feneryolu / Sarıyer Bird Watching Tower
When it comes to bird watching in Istanbul, one of the first places that comes to mind is Feneryolu. Located in the Sarıyer district on the north shore of the Bosphorus, this observation tower is one of the world's most important bird migration observation points due to its location on the migratory route of birds of prey. During the spring migration season, which lasts from March to June, it is possible to observe thousands of birds of prey in the sky.
The main bird of prey species observed in Feneryolu include black storks, lesser spotted eagles, falcons, hawks and snake eagles. Every year, thousands of birds pass through this point, and observers enjoy this visual feast. Observations made with binoculars and telescopes provide nature lovers with unique experiences.
Access to the Feneryolu birdwatching tower is quite easy thanks to Istanbul's public transport network. You can take the M2 metro line to Hacıosman station and then take a bus to Sarıyer. The trails around the tower are also suitable for walking and exploring nature. Participating in guided birdwatching events organised here will also be beneficial for beginners.
Source: Sarıyer Gazetesi
Çamlıca Hill, Üsküdar
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Çamlıca Hill is a valuable spot for both bird watching and panoramic views of Istanbul. Especially in spring, impressive bird movements can be observed here due to its location on the migration route of migratory birds of prey.
Çamlıca Hill is suitable for both experienced and amateur birdwatchers. Species such as buzzards, storks, and small forest eagles, as well as songbirds, can be easily spotted here. Additionally, its proximity to the city makes it an ideal location for those seeking short nature getaways within the city.
Access to Çamlıca is easy by public transport, with many routes connecting to it from within Istanbul. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning for birdwatching to catch the most active periods of the birds. Additionally, birdwatching festivals and educational programmes are organised here during certain periods.
Source: Villacım
Belgrade Forest and Atatürk Arboretum
Located in the north of Istanbul, on the border of the Sarıyer and Eyüp districts, Belgrade Forest is one of the richest natural areas for bird watching in Istanbul. Spread over a large area, the forest offers a mixed habitat consisting of deciduous trees. Both resident and migratory bird species are frequently observed in this rich natural environment.
Belgrade Forest is particularly rich in songbird species. Woodpeckers, nightingales, sparrows and many other forest bird species can be observed here. The walking trails within the forest offer suitable routes for birdwatchers. You can enjoy nature while walking to the sound of birdsong.
The nearby Atatürk Arboretum is a special area that combines botany and bird watching. The arboretum's different tree and plant species provide suitable habitats for various birds. Ponds and lakes are also of great importance for water birds. Here, you can observe many water bird species such as ducks, gulls, and cormorants.
Source: Biz Evde Yokuz
Çilingoz Nature Park
Located near the Black Sea coast in the Çatalca district, Çilingoz Nature Park is an important natural habitat for birdwatching in Istanbul. The park, which features a variety of habitats such as forests, marshes and lakes, is home to many species of birds that live and migrate there.
Çilingoz is rich in aquatic bird species. Herons, cormorants, various owl species and eagles are commonly seen here. Due to its location on the Black Sea coast, seabirds can also be observed. The park is also suitable for activities such as camping, hiking and photography for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
Located approximately 80-100 kilometres from the centre of Istanbul, Çilingoz is ideal for those who wish to travel by private vehicle. It also offers trails of varying difficulty levels for those who enjoy nature walks.
Source: Çilingöz Tabiat Park
The Area Around Büyükçekmece and Küçükçekmece Lakes
Located on the coast of the Sea of Marmara, the Büyükçekmece and Küçükçekmece lakes are among the most important wetlands for birdwatching in Istanbul. These lakes provide a natural habitat for water birds and migratory species.
The area around Büyükçekmece Lake is particularly popular with birdwatchers during the migration season. Various species of gulls, cormorants, ducks and herons can be observed in the lake's reed beds and wetlands. The area around Küçükçekmece Lake also offers similar bird diversity.
There are walking trails around these lakes, providing easy access for those who wish to observe birds in nature. During migration seasons, it is possible to see large flocks of birds. It is also an ideal area for photography.
Source: IBB
Princes' Islands (Heybeliada, Büyükada lines)
The Princes' Islands in the Marmara Sea off Istanbul are popular locations for birdwatching due to their natural beauty and bird diversity. In particular, the walking trails around Heybeliada and Büyükada offer birdwatchers the opportunity to observe seabirds and songbirds.
The islands are easily accessible due to their proximity to Istanbul city centre. Surrounded by the sea, they are rich in seabirds such as gulls, sea eagles and cormorants. In addition, small forest birds and songbirds can be seen in the interior of the islands.
When combined with nature walks and cycling routes, birdwatching on the Princes' Islands offers visitors a unique experience, both as an escape from the city and for birdwatching.
Sultanahmet Park & Historic Peninsula Forest
Located in the heart of Istanbul, the Historic Peninsula, and especially Sultanahmet Park, are among the surprising but effective areas for bird watching. Despite being within the city, different songbird species and small forest birds can be observed here.
Myna birds, woodpeckers, and other songbird species are occasionally seen in these areas. This region, where historical and cultural structures blend seamlessly with natural areas, is ideal for those seeking to engage in birdwatching within the urban environment. Additionally, it is possible to listen to bird songs while walking and take short breaks immersed in nature.
Source: Forevervacation
What You Need to Know About Bird Watching in Istanbul
There are some important details for those who want to go bird watching in Istanbul. The most important of these is knowing the most productive observation times and the appropriate equipment.
Best seasons and times: Since Istanbul is located on migratory routes, the most productive periods for bird watching are spring (April-June) and autumn (September-November). During these periods, bird migration intensifies. The early morning hours, especially between 6:00 and 10:00, are when birds are most active. Observing during these hours provides advantages in terms of diversity and number.
Required equipment: Binoculars with 8×40 or higher magnification are recommended for bird watching. More professional observers can use telescopes and long-focus cameras (400 mm and above lenses). Telescopes are very useful at points such as Feneryolu, where birds of prey pass through in large numbers.
Bird species and diversity: There are approximately 460 different bird species in Turkey. Istanbul is rich in diversity, as it is located on the migration route of migratory birds as well as native birds. A wide range of species can be observed, from birds of prey to songbirds, water birds to forest birds.
Transportation and access: Transportation to observation points within Istanbul is generally easy by public transport. Points such as Feneryolu and Çamlıca are easily accessible by metro and bus. However, for areas that are a little further away, such as Çilingoz Nature Park, private vehicles or transfers should be preferred. Comfortable and durable shoes suitable for nature walks are recommended.
Birdwatching culture and communities: The culture of birdwatching is growing in Istanbul. The Istanbul Nature Association and similar local organisations organise guided walks and educational programmes during migration periods. Participating in these events is beneficial both for gaining knowledge and for meeting people with similar interests.
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