Nallıhan Bird Paradise

Nallıhan Bird Paradise is a wetland ecosystem located within the boundaries of the Nallıhan district in Ankara Province, situated north of the Sarıyar Dam at the confluence of the Aladağ Stream and the dam. This artificial wetland area was formed in 1959 following the commissioning of the Sarıyar Dam. Characterized by diverse habitat types and rich avian diversity, it is recognized as one of Türkiye's significant bird areas.

Nallıhan Bird Paradise - (Nallıhan District Governorship)

Geography and Ecosystem

Nallıhan Bird Paradise comprises willow groves, reed beds, tamarisk shrubs, extensive agricultural fields, poplar groves, steppe areas, rocky cliffs, and hilly terrains formed at the confluence where Aladağ Stream flows into the dam. The geological structure of the region consists of limestone, gypsum, marl, and clay soils. Layers in shades of yellow, brown, and reddish tones impart a distinctive landscape appearance to the area.

Nallıhan Bird Paradise - (Nallıhan District Governorship)

Bird Diversity

Hosting approximately 200 bird species, the area serves as a vital center for birdwatching and nature photography throughout all seasons. It was officially designated as a 'Wildlife Development Area' on September 7, 2005.

The main bird species inhabiting the region include the bee-eater, black stork, mallard, grey heron, black-headed gull, Egyptian vulture, little bittern, stork, kestrel, redshank, hawk, hobby falcon, mute swan, and cormorant. Notably, the endangered Black Stork breeds here in the highest density within Türkiye. Additionally, five of the six heron species found in Türkiye have been observed in this area.

Van Black Stork Canyon – Black Storks - (Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism)

Birds of Nallıhan Bird Paradise - (Anadolu Agency)

Protection Status and Biodiversity

Nallıhan Bird Paradise serves as a breeding and wintering habitat for numerous bird species classified as endangered, vulnerable, or near-threatened according to Türkiye's Red List. The area also hosts threatened species such as the Dalmatian pelican, great white egret, black-tailed godwit, griffon vulture, black vulture, mute swan, and white-tailed eagle.

Particularly important as a breeding ground for heron species, the region supports dense colonies of little bittern, grey heron, and night heron within an approximately 5-hectare willow grove located at the confluence of Aladağ Stream and the dam. In the reed beds, species such as the little crake, water rail, little bittern, mute swan, mallard, and common pochard breed successfully.

Tourism and Educational Activities

Situated along the bird migration route passing through the Istanbul and Çanakkale Straits, the area hosts thousands of migratory birds during migration seasons. Equipped with birdwatching hides and observation points, the site facilitates nature photography, birdwatching, and educational programs.

The Visitor Center provides information through taxidermied animal specimens and interactive touchscreen kiosks, while also offering educational services through presentation and meeting rooms.

Visitor Center at Nallıhan Bird Paradise - (Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry)