Mount Parnassus National Park

Birds

Mount Parnassus National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to a diverse range of avian species. The combination of dense forests, rocky peaks, and open meadows provides an ideal habitat for various raptors, songbirds, and migratory species. Below are some of the most popular birds found in the park.

Golden Eagle (Aquila chrysaetos)
A symbol of power and freedom, the golden eagle soars over the mountain peaks, scanning the terrain for prey. This formidable raptor preys on hares, birds, and small mammals, using its keen eyesight and sharp talons to hunt.

Bonelli’s Eagle (Aquila fasciata)
Another impressive bird of prey, Bonelli’s eagle is smaller than the golden eagle but equally fierce. It nests on rocky cliffs and preys on birds and small mammals.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl has striking orange eyes and powerful talons. It hunts at night, feeding on rodents, birds, and even other owls.

Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
Renowned for its speed, the peregrine falcon is often seen diving at high velocities to capture its prey. It primarily feeds on smaller birds and can be spotted around cliffs and open landscapes.

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)
A widespread raptor in Greece, the common buzzard soars gracefully over the park’s forests and meadows. It has a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, reptiles, and carrion.

Western Rock Nuthatch (Sitta neumayer)
A small yet energetic bird, the western rock nuthatch is often found clinging to rock faces in search of insects and seeds. Its distinct calls echo through the mountainous terrain.

Alpine Chough (Pyrrhocorax graculus)
These intelligent and social birds are often seen in flocks near high-altitude cliffs. They have glossy black plumage and bright yellow beaks, and they scavenge for food left behind by hikers and mountaineers.

Rock Partridge (Alectoris graeca)
A characteristic species of rocky slopes and alpine meadows, the rock partridge is well-camouflaged with its earthy tones. It forages for seeds, leaves, and small invertebrates.

European Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus)
Unlike other raptors, the honey buzzard specializes in eating wasps and bees. It uses its strong beak to dig into nests and feast on larvae.

Wallcreeper (Tichodroma muraria)
A spectacular sight against cliff faces, the wallcreeper has striking red and black wings that flash when it flits across rock surfaces. It feeds on insects found in rocky crevices.

Mount Parnassus National Park remains a crucial refuge for these remarkable species, making it an essential destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Mount Parnassus National Park, located in central Greece, is a stunning natural reserve known for its rich biodiversity and striking landscapes. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, thriving in its dense forests, rocky slopes, and alpine meadows. Below are some of the more popular species found in the park.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
A rare and elusive predator, the Eurasian lynx roams the dense forests of Mount Parnassus. This solitary feline has tufted ears, a short tail, and a thick coat that helps it adapt to harsh winters. It primarily preys on deer and smaller mammals, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Brown Bear (Ursus arctos)
Although rare in the region, brown bears occasionally wander into the park from nearby mountainous areas. These powerful mammals are omnivorous, feeding on berries, roots, insects, and small animals. Their presence signifies the park’s rich and diverse ecosystem.

Wolf (Canis lupus)
Wolves are an integral part of Mount Parnassus’s ecosystem, traveling in packs across the rugged terrain. They are skilled hunters, preying on deer, wild boars, and smaller mammals. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in different habitats, from forests to rocky outcrops.

European Wildcat (Felis silvestris)
Often mistaken for a large domestic cat, the European wildcat is a secretive predator found in the park’s dense woodlands. Its thick fur and robust build allow it to endure the harsh mountain climate. This species primarily hunts rodents and birds.

Golden Jackal (Canis aureus)
The golden jackal is a highly adaptable species found in the lower regions of the park. It has a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, birds, and carrion. Jackals are social animals, often living in pairs or small family groups.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
These powerful, stocky animals are common throughout the park. Wild boars use their strong snouts to forage for roots, tubers, and small animals. They are an important prey species for predators such as wolves and lynxes.

Chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica)
A symbol of alpine wildlife, the chamois is a sure-footed ungulate adapted to the rocky cliffs of Mount Parnassus. These agile animals can be seen traversing steep slopes in search of grass and shrubs.

Balkan Green Lizard (Lacerta trilineata)
One of the largest lizards in Europe, this vibrant green reptile is often spotted basking on sunlit rocks. It feeds on insects, small reptiles, and even plant material.

Greek Tortoise (Testudo graeca)
This slow-moving reptile is commonly found in the park’s open woodlands and grasslands. The Greek tortoise has a hard shell that protects it from predators, and it primarily feeds on vegetation, including flowers and fruits.

Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra)
One of the most striking amphibians in the region, the fire salamander is easily recognized by its black body adorned with bright yellow spots. It thrives in the park’s moist, forested areas and relies on clean water sources for breeding.