We are going to Istanbul, Cappadocia, Antalya, Turquoise Coast area (in gulet), and Ephesus area. Has anyone seen some interesting birds anywhere there? I'd love to see their kingfisher or that ugly bald ibis. http://birdingblogs.com/2011/guestpost-tristanreid/birding-turkey How about sea mammals on the Med coast? Thanks.
Posted by
Dunwoody, Georgia
338 posts
Yes. Turkey is along the migration pathway between Africa and Europe so there are lots of interesting birds, especially in the spring and fall. I did a seasonal bird survey in the Adana area in 2004. This was in a primarily agricultural area and is a bit farther east than where you're headed, but you should still be able to see the same species. Some favorites from my trip were the European roller, black crowned heron, purple heron, Montagu's harrier, short-toed eagle, white stork, black francolin, and hoopoe. I used Beaman and Madge's Handbook of Bird Identification for Europe and the Western Paleartic as one of my English-language guides and found it quite useful. Good luck!
Posted by
OP
La Conner, WA, usa
97 posts
Wow. Can't wait! Wonder if I can find an app for Eurobirds. Thank you!
Posted by
OP
La Conner, WA, usa
97 posts
I want to see the hoopoe! Where did you spot it?
Posted by
Dunwoody, Georgia
338 posts
I've seen the most hoopoes on the road between Adana and Pozanti (in a more forested area heading up to the mountains). This is an area south of Cappadocia. They are found in a wide variety of habitats, so you may see them just about anywhere. I can guarantee that you will see the less interesting hooded crow. They are quite common in Istanbul.