Migratory Birds in Hatay: A Unique Stopover

Hatay: A Crucial Stopover for Migratory Birds

Hatay, serving as Turkey‘s gateway for species migrating from Africa for the winter, transforms into a vital resting point each year due to its abundant wetlands. With the advent of spring, some bird species, en route to warmer regions, find solace and nourishment in the wetlands of Subaşı, Mileyha, and Reyhanlı Dam in Hatay.

During this spring season, commencing on March 1, a diverse array of 233 bird species, including storks, pelicans, hawks, mudpipers, spoonbills, mallards, redstarts, and vultures, were spotted in the region.

Significance of Hatay for Migratory Birds

Hatay Nature Conservation and National Parks Director Nuri Akın emphasized the strategic importance of Hatay as a transit point for migratory birds. He highlighted that in the mid-winter waterfowl census conducted in January, 6,196 birds from 68 species were recorded.

Akın noted the increase in migratory activity with the arrival of spring, stating: “Tens of thousands of birds traverse the skies of Hatay, some of which remain in the wetlands. When they encounter rich habitats and favorable environmental conditions, they choose to nest and breed here, while others continue their journey. The skies over Hatay witness a concentrated migration of storks, pelicans, vultures, and birds of prey such as eagles, hawks, and falcons.”

Efforts Against Poaching

Akın underscored that in Hatay, located along the migration route, teams are actively engaged in combating poaching. Efforts to Mitigate Poaching include the installation of warning signs in the field and the implementation of necessary sanctions for any violations.

Migration Continues Until June

Akın remarked on the current visibility of numerous bird species in the city’s skies and noted that this migratory period will persist until the end of June.