Itinerary
Terkos and Büyükçekmece Lakes are the most important birding areas in Istanbul, not only for waterfowl but also for herons, raptors and warblers. These are unique locations where you are totally isolated from the crowded megacity.
Best period: Spring – Autumn – Winter
Species: Little and Great White Egret, Purple, Grey and Squacco Herons, Pygmy Cormorants, Mediterranean, Little, Yellow-legged and Slender-billed gulls, waders, roller, bee-eater, hoopoe,
Number of species: 60-120
Istanbul is a unique spot for birdwatchers all around the globe. Istanbul being the only city located on two continents (Europe and Asia) is divided by Bosporus strait which connects the Aegean and Mediterranean seas to the Black Sea. For bird watchers it is a very important location to watch the migration of many species including raptors for 5 months a year.
