
Bird watching in Greece is a rich and rewarding experience thanks to the country’s incredible geographic diversity, which ranges from wetlands and mountains to forests and islands. Greece sits along key migratory routes, making it a hotspot for both resident and migratory bird species.
🐦 Top Bird-Watching Locations in Greece
1. Lake Kerkini (Northern Greece)
- Best For: Pelicans, Pygmy Cormorants, herons, and wintering geese.
- Highlights: One of the best birding spots in Greece with over 300 recorded species.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn migrations; winter for waterfowl.
2. Evros Delta (Northeastern Greece)
- Best For: Flamingos, raptors, herons, rare species like the Spur-winged Lapwing.
- Highlights: A protected RAMSAR wetland site near the Turkish border.
- Best Time: Late winter to spring and autumn.
3. Prespa Lakes (Western Macedonia)
- Best For: Dalmatian Pelicans (one of the largest breeding colonies), herons, and eagles.
- Highlights: Scenic beauty and biodiversity; excellent for photography.
- Best Time: Spring through summer.
4. Mount Olympus & Pieria Mountains
- Best For: Golden Eagles, Griffon Vultures, and alpine species.
- Highlights: Mix of montane and forest birds.
- Best Time: Late spring and summer.
5. Messolonghi Wetlands (Western Greece)
- Best For: Flamingos, Slender-billed Gulls, Glossy Ibis.
- Highlights: Vast lagoons and salt pans—great for waders and waterbirds.
- Best Time: Spring and autumn.
6. Lesvos Island
- Best For: Bee-eaters, Rollers, Shrikes, raptors, and passage migrants.
- Highlights: Internationally known for spring migration birdwatching.
- Best Time: April to early May.
7. Dadía Forest (Thrace)
- Best For: Vultures (Egyptian, Griffon, and Black), raptors.
- Highlights: One of the last places in Europe for all three vulture species.
- Best Time: Year-round, but best in spring and autumn.
🗓️ Best Seasons for Bird Watching
- Spring (March–May): Peak migration, breeding activity.
- Autumn (September–November): Southward migration, many raptors.
- Winter (December–February): Waterfowl and large concentrations of birds in wetlands.
🔭 Tips for Birdwatchers
- Gear: Bring binoculars, spotting scope, and a field guide (or app like Merlin Bird ID).
- Guides & Tours: Local birding guides can enhance the experience—especially in less accessible regions like the Evros Delta or Dadía Forest.
- Permits: Some protected areas require permits or are accessible only with local guides.