Konya Hosted 292 of the 490 Bird Species That Migrated Through Turkey

292 of the 490 bird species that visit Turkey were observed in Konya, which lies on major bird migration routes due to its geographical location.

To monitor water bird populations and long-term changes in wetland ecosystems, the Mid-Winter Water Bird Counts (KOSKS) are conducted across the country under the coordination of the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP).

These counts aim to protect wetlands and waterfowl, as well as to determine the number of birds and the areas where they gather most.

According to data obtained from counts and observations carried out by the DKMP 8th Regional Directorate teams at eight wetlands, approximately half of the bird species migrating through Turkey can be seen in Konya’s wetlands.

DKMP 8th Regional Director Orhan Çatalçam stated that the censuses were conducted with the participation of general directorate staff and bird experts to protect wildlife and wetlands in the country.

Çatalçam noted that the counts were carried out in January and February, when the migratory activity of bird species is at its lowest. He added, “Wetlands are currently among the most endangered areas in the world. To protect the water birds in these wetlands, we determine their numbers and where the populations are concentrated.”

He also emphasized that many bird species that migrate by gliding pass over Turkey. “Some migrating birds choose our country as breeding grounds, while others come here to winter. So far, approximately 490 bird species have been identified in Turkey, and 292 of them were observed in Konya. This means nearly half of the species stop in Konya. Last year, around 300,000 birds of 42 species passed through Konya. These numbers can vary from year to year. For instance, while there were only about 5–10 flamingos in the Akgöl reeds last year, this year around 300 flamingos were observed. Expanding wetlands is extremely important for the survival of water birds.”