Nallıhan Bird Paradise (Ankara)

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary is a wetland area located within the boundaries of Ankara Province. This region provides shelter and feeding opportunities for a large number of bird species. Its position along major bird migration routes makes it ecologically significant. The Bird Sanctuary is particularly suitable for studying the life cycles of water birds.

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary (Culture Portal)

How Was It Formed?

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary is situated in the northern section of the Sarıyar Dam, established in 1959. This artificial wetland ecosystem was formed where the waters of the Aladağ Creek meet those of the Sarıyar Dam. A portion of the area was designated in 1994 as a “Wildlife Development Area” due to its rich biodiversity. This legal protection safeguards the local fauna from human impacts such as hunting.

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary (Culture Portal)

Where Is It Located?

This wetland lies within the Davutoğlan district of Nallıhan, Ankara. The environment of the Bird Sanctuary brings together diverse natural habitats.

• Habitat Diversity: The area features riverbeds (Aladağ Creek), willow groves along water edges, reed beds, and poplar trees. In addition, extensive agricultural lands, steppe areas, and rocky hills are part of this ecosystem.

These varied environments support the diversity of bird and plant species found in the region.

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary (Culture Portal)

Biodiversity and Bird Species

Nallıhan Bird Sanctuary lies along a major bird migration route between Europe and Africa. This results in the seasonal presence of numerous bird species. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in the area.

• Protected Species: Some bird species are globally classified as threatened (with declining populations). The Black Stork, Dalmatian Pelican, and Ferruginous Duck use the sanctuary for breeding or resting periods.
• Significance: The dense stands of willow trees provide nesting sites for fish-eating birds. Five of the six fish-eating bird species found in Türkiye have been observed in this region.