220 different bird species were observed in Boğaçayı, whose natural ecosystem was revived with the work of the Scientific Committee established by the Antalya Metropolitan Municipality. With the change in the region, Boğaçayı is becoming the center of attention of scientists, bird watchers and photographers.
The ongoing efforts of Antalya Metropolitan Municipality to protect the Boğaçayı ecosystem are bearing fruit. The islands, reeds and aquatic plants formed in the region, which returned to its natural conditions with the precautionary decisions of the Boğaçayı Scientific Board, create new sheltering areas for different bird species. The bird species that make their nests in these protected areas, which are developing in a controlled manner, are increasing the live population of the region. In the observations made by bird watchers since 2021, 220 different bird species have been detected in the region. Among the species that stand out in the observations are the Common Crane, Shearwater, Great White Pelican, Red-throated Diver, Eared Grebe, Golden Plover, Swordbill, White-tailed Lapwing, Fish Eagle, and Desert Wheatear. Experts stated that bird diversity increases with migratory birds and bird species that make the region a natural habitat, and said that Boğaçayı should be meticulously protected.
BIRD WATCHERS SHOW GREAT INTEREST
Having conducted research on birds and wildlife ecology in many parts of Türkiye, Akdeniz University, Faculty of Science, Department of Biology, Department of Ecology, academic member Prof. Dr. Ali Erdoğan provided the following information regarding the research and observations carried out in Boğaçayı; “We participate and support the scientific committee established by our Metropolitan Municipality for Boğaçayı with our research. With the precautionary decisions taken for Boğaçayı, natural formations began to appear and the region began to become an important bird watching spot again. Bird observations were made here 2024 times in 598 and 2025 times in 63. Very valuable records were obtained during this process. It is very important that Boğaçayı is connected to the sea.”
A NATURAL LABORATORY
Erdoğan, who stated that the increasing bird diversity in Boğaçayı is an advantage for Antalya, said, “I see this region as an important potential for Antalya in terms of education and tourism. It is a natural laboratory for our children to develop love of nature, environmental awareness and love of animals starting from kindergarten. We can ensure its protection by introducing this diversity. I think bird watching will contribute to Antalya tourism in terms of alternative tourism. Bird photography and camping are also developing every day in our country. The interest of NGOs established for this purpose is also increasing here. The records taken here are increasing day by day and many of these records are published on the eBird website. As long as the natural structure of Boğaçayı is preserved, its liveliness and diversity will continue to increase.”
