Discover Lake Mogan: One of Turkey’s Richest Natural Habitats for Flora and Fauna
Lake Mogan, located in the Gölbaşı district of Ankara, is a dam lake considered one of Turkey's most important wetlands due to its rich flora and fauna. It is also located within the ‘Gölbaşı Special Environmental Protection Area,’ one of 15 special environmental protection areas declared in Turkey.
In this article, you can find all the details about Lake Mogan, from its history to its natural life, activities to transportation information, and get to know the region more closely.
General Information About Lake Mogan
Located in the southern part of Ankara, within the borders of the Gölbaşı district, Lake Mogan was formed as a dam lake. This area, which was once a river valley, was filled with alluvial deposits carried by the Sukesen, Başpınar, Gölova and Yavrucak streams, transforming it into a freshwater lake. The lake is part of a larger basin that also includes Eymir Lake.
Designated as a special environmental protection area under the Barcelona Convention, Lake Mogan is protected both locally and internationally due to its ecological richness.
Key Features of Lake Mogan
Total area: 63 km²
Volume: 14 million m³
Average depth: 3.5–4 metres
Maximum depth: 4.5 metres during dry periods, 5 metres during rainy periods
Perimeter: 14 km
Dimensions: 6 km long, 0.9 km wide
The Rich Fauna of Lake Mogan
Lake Mogan is one of Turkey's most notable wetlands due to the bird species and other wildlife it hosts. To date, 226 bird species have been recorded around the lake. Its importance as a stopover and breeding ground for migratory birds makes the lake a paradise for birdwatchers.
Some Bird Species Observed at Lake Mogan:
Bearded Reedling (Panurus biarmicus): A small bird known for its thin voice, living in reed beds.
Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea): A heron species that stands out with its elegant posture and purple feathers.
Little Egret (Egretta garzetta): It stands out with its white feathers and black beak; it usually hunts in shallow waters.
Desert Wheatear (Ammomanes deserti): A rare species found in steppe areas.
Night Heron (Nycticorax nycticorax): A short-necked heron species that hunts in the evening hours.
White-headed Duck (Oxyura leucocephala): An endangered, short-tailed duck species under special protection.
Lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni): A small and agile falcon species commonly seen in agricultural areas.
Fish Species Living in the Lake:
Carp, perch, velvet fish, pearl fish, silver pond fish, pebble fish, small silver fish
These fish species make the lake an attractive spot for visitors interested in amateur fishing.
Other Animals:
Common otter: A rare mammal that lives in the freshwater systems around the lake.
Spotted turtle and Mediterranean spurred tortoise: These reptile species, which prefer wetlands, can occasionally be observed around the lake.
Reed beds, wet meadows, steppe areas, agricultural lands and woodlands also cover a large area around the lake. Endemic and endangered plant species have also been observed in the region.
Where is Lake Mogan? How to get there?
Lake Mogan is located in the Gölbaşı district of Ankara, approximately 25 km from the city centre. It is quite easy to reach:
By public transport: You can reach the lake by taking buses numbered 101, 108, 177 and 182 from the centre of Ankara.
Activities to Do at Lake Mogan
Lake Mogan offers many different activity options for those who want to spend time in nature:
Fishing: There are suitable areas for lake fishing.
Cycling: You can rent a bike around the lake and enjoy a pleasant ride.
Breakfast and café enjoyment: You can have breakfast with a view of the lake or relax in cafés with tea or coffee.
Lighthouse view: Watching the sunset from the lake's miniature lighthouse is quite romantic.
Water bike and boat: You can enjoy the water with vehicles that can be rented on the lake.
Picnic and barbecue: You can barbecue in designated areas and spend time with your family at picnic tables.
Lake Mogan Through the Eyes of Travellers
'Lake Mogan, with its picnic areas, children's playgrounds and cafés, is home to many bird species that live in the reeds and marshes.'
“Overall, it is a peaceful and lovely lake. There are picnic areas, but you need to look for specific places to barbecue. It is quite clean. Boat tours are affordable and enjoyable.”
“One of Ankara’s most beautiful blue areas. You can walk along the lake, spend time in the children’s parks, and dine at restaurants with lake views. It is a very enjoyable day out for the whole family.”
Places to Visit in Gölbaşı
While visiting Lake Mogan, there are many natural and relaxing spots to explore around Gölbaşı:
Eymir Lake: A natural freshwater lake located within the ODTÜ Forest, famous for its walking and cycling trails.
Ahlatlıbel Atatürk Park: Ideal for outdoor sports and picnics, overlooking the cityscape.
METU Forest: A large green area suitable for hiking and camping.
Atatürk Coastal Park: An ideal recreation spot on the lakeshore with walking paths, seating areas and playgrounds.
Gölbaşı Bird Observation Point: There are special platforms where you can observe bird species in and around the lake.
Gölbaşı Lakeside Walkway: It is very popular for evening walks and enjoying the view.
Karaoğlan Hill: Overlooking the district from above, this point offers an ideal viewing terrace for those who want to take photos.
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