Top 10 Best Birdwatching Destinations in Türkiye: Where to Spot Exotic Birds
If you're tired of being cooped up indoors and have a passion for nature and outdoor adventures, birdwatching could be your perfect escape! Türkiye is home to numerous natural habitats that attract birdwatching enthusiasts from all over the world. Winter migration brings even more birds to the region as they travel to warmer climates. If typical trips no longer excite you, birdwatching offers a refreshing alternative, immersing you in the wonders of nature.
Prepare your tickets, make your plans, and read on to discover our top 10 birdwatching destinations in Türkiye!
1. Lake Terkos
Located 40 km northwest of Istanbul, Lake Terkos is a prime spot for birdwatchers, especially during migration periods. Known as one of Istanbul’s main drinking water sources, Terkos is home to endangered species like the Siberian goose and Greater-spotted eagle. During the weekends, the lake attracts locals and tourists alike. The nearby Black Sea shores provide the perfect backdrop for spotting birds like Japanese Imperial Eagles, Sparrow Hawks, and Ospreys in spring.
2. Lake Manyas and Manyas National Park
In Balıkesir, Lake Manyas and its adjacent national park offer a paradise for bird lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and photographers. Known as Manyas Bird Paradise, the lake has been a national park since 1959, covering 16,000 square meters. You’ll encounter species like the Dalmatian Pelican and the endangered White-headed Duck. The area’s flora includes tamarisk trees, reeds, and rushes, while lobsters, frogs, and over twenty types of fish add to the biodiversity. Visit between April and June for the best birdwatching experience.
3. Lake Büyükçekmece
Another excellent birdwatching destination near Istanbul is Lake Büyükçekmece in Beylikdüzü. This spot offers incredible views of migratory bird stocks flying over the northern Black Sea shores and the Bosphorus. Like Lake Terkos, it also plays a vital role in meeting Istanbul’s freshwater needs. Whether you're a local or tourist, exploring this birdwatching route will allow you to appreciate the city’s rich flora and fauna.
4. Lake Efteni Wetlands & Wildlife Protection Area, Düzce
Last but not least, Lake Efteni in Düzce is a must-see for birdwatchers. Home to species like Grey Heron, Eurasian Coot, and Great Cormorant, some of these birds are permanent residents. The wetlands also boast diverse endemic plants. Covering 764 hectares, Lake Efteni offers not only a rich bird population but also an enchanting landscape that will leave any nature lover in awe.
5. Göksu Delta, Mersin
The Göksu Delta in Mersin is one of the most important wetlands on Türkiye’s bird migration route. This area, with its diverse ecosystem, shelters both migratory and resident bird species. Highlights include the Great-spotted Eagle, Griffon Vulture, Peregrine Falcon, and Red Kite. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or new to the activity, the Göksu Delta is a must-visit for its incredible biodiversity.
6. Beşparmak Mountains and Lake Bafa
With a history dating back 8,000 years to the ancient city of Latmos, the Beşparmak Mountains and Lake Bafa are a sight to behold. Known for its impressive rock formations, Lake Bafa, the largest in the Aegean region, is home to a rich ecosystem of bird species. The lake’s natural beauty makes it a haven for both migrating birds and campers. Birdwatchers can enjoy the vibrant wildlife, protected since 1994, while exploring the surrounding nature park.
7. Sarıyer Bird Observatory Tower
Located in Istanbul's northern district, Sarıyer, this tower is a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers alike. If you’ve already explored the iconic sights like Ayasofya and Süleymaniye Mosque, take a detour into Sarıyer’s lush forests and visit this observatory in Feneryolu. Migrating birds fly over Istanbul on their way from Africa to Europe in late March, and the tower offers stunning views of the Bosphorus and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge. Best of all, it’s free to visit!
8. Sultan Marshes National Park, Kayseri
Once a hunting ground for Ottoman sultans, Sultan Marshes National Park in Kayseri is now a vital wetland ecosystem. Designated a national park in 2006, the marshes support over 300 bird species. Its mix of freshwater and saltwater environments makes it a prime nesting and breeding ground for migratory birds, making it a significant birdwatching destination in Türkiye.
9. Kazdağları (Mount Ida)
Situated in Çanakkale, Kazdağları, also known as Mount Ida, is a bird migration hotspot from April to May and August to September. Even beginners will be mesmerized by the array of migratory birds. These mountains, steeped in Greek mythology and local legend, also offer cultural richness. If you visit between August 15th and 25th, you can join locals on their annual pilgrimage for Sarıkız, a revered local saint, while witnessing the awe-inspiring bird migrations.
10. Lake Kuyucuk, Kars
A hidden gem for ecotourism, Lake Kuyucuk in Kars attracts 232 different bird species. This small lake, a Ramsar protected area, offers a thriving habitat for birds like Black-necked Grebes, Shelducks, Greylag Geese, and the endangered White-headed Duck. Kuyucuk has recently become a popular spot for birdwatchers seeking an unforgettable experience in Türkiye’s northeastern region.
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