Birdwatching on Kerkini lake National Park
Activity Description
With more than 312 so far recorded bird species, Lake Kerkini National Park offers great birding year-round. In spring, a huge heronry of 10 species (including Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Squacco, Purple and Night Heron, Pygmy Cormorant, etc.) and up to 9000 pairs forms in the north of the lake. Next to them, Whiskered and Black Terns nest on floating leaves of White Water-lilies. Other important breeding species include Black and White Stork, Lesser Spotted, White-tailed, and the Booted Eagle. Also Dalmatian and Great White Pelicans are resident species, breeding successfully on artificial platforms (close to 300 pairs).
Many thousands of waterbirds overwinter at the lake, among them the rare Lesser White-fronted Goose every winter from October to March. This is the most important wintering area for them, attracting the entire Scandinavian population (c. 140 birds). Overwintering raptors include Greater Spotted, Golden, and Imperial Eagles. Greater Flamingos stay at the lake in their thousands. Kerkini is one of the most important wintering areas throughout Europe. Also, there are more than 44 species of mammals: Otter, Wildcat, Grey Wolf, Beech Martens, Wild Boar, and Golden Jackal.
The maximum length of Lake Kerkini Lake is 10.5 mi (17 km) from north to south, but a drivable circular birding route around it has 70 km and takes most of the day. The bird-richest north-eastern sector of the lake is reachable in less than 15 minutes drive from the Limneo Lodge. In a spring week, it is possible to observe more than 150 species — Black-headed and Rock Buntings, Isabelline Wheatear, Calandra Lark, Tawny Pipit, Rock Nuthatch, SombreTit, Masked and Woodchat Shrikes; Grey-headed and Syrian Woodpeckers among them.
After so many years of almost daily presence at the lake, both by boat and car, I realized that the presence of visitors in the area prevents poaching and other wrong-doings. So you are welcome to enjoy the nature of Lake Kerkini and help the local community. Ecotourism – birding, butterflying, and botanizing is the strongest development incentive in the national park. Leave the organization to us and be sure that we will do everything possible for you to have a great time.
Read MoreRead Less
Cancellation policy
- Cancellation 72 hours or more prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are automatically reimbursed for the full activity price.
- Cancellation between 24 hours and 72 hours prior to the agreed activity starting date. You are entitled to a 50% reimbursement
- Cancellation 24 hours or later are what we call last-minute cancellations. No reimbursements will be effected
* If the activity is canceled by the activity provider (due to weather, non-completion of minimum entries, force majeure, etc.), the price of your activity, is refunded in full.
Unlimited Adrenaline Tips
- Many activities are based on the weather, so it is recommended that you contact the company before the activity.
- It is a good idea to be at the meeting point on time, before the scheduled start time.
- After your reservation it is enough to give your details to the cooperating company so that you can carry out your activity. However, it is recommended that you have the booking confirmed in digital or printed form.
- Read the benefits of the activity carefully to avoid possible extra charges from additional optional services.
- Read the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
Location
Meeting Point
Region: Petritsi, Serres
Address: Kerkini Lake National Park
Notes: The meeting point is made after consultation 1. Chrysochorafa in the Port Traditional Guesthouse 2. Mandraki port