Bird watching

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.