Kuşcenneti National Park

Kuşcenneti Overview

Kuşcenneti National Park, known in Turkish as Kuşcenneti Millî Parkı, is a renowned bird sanctuary located in the Bandırma district of Balıkesir Province in northwestern Turkey. Covering approximately 6.7 square miles, or about 17.5 square kilometers, the park lies along the southern shores of Lake Kuş, also known as Lake Manyas.

Its name, which translates to “Bird Paradise,” reflects its reputation as one of the most important wetlands for bird conservation in Europe and the Middle East. The terrain is primarily flat and low-lying, characterized by freshwater marshes, reed beds, shallow lagoons, and patches of riparian woodland.

Seasonal flooding from the lake and surrounding rivers creates ideal breeding and feeding habitats for a wide array of waterbirds. The mosaic of wetlands, meadows, and small forested areas supports rich biodiversity and has earned the park international recognition as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

Vegetation in Kuşcenneti National Park is adapted to its wetland environment. Reeds and rushes dominate the shoreline zones, while willow and ash trees form small groves along the banks. Aquatic plants thrive in the shallows of the lake, and sedge meadows provide additional cover and food for nesting birds.

These lush, water-rich habitats are essential for both resident and migratory species and change dynamically with the seasons, offering varied scenery throughout the year.

The park is home to more than 270 recorded bird species, making it a magnet for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts. During peak migration seasons in spring and autumn, the skies and waters of the park teem with life. Pelicans, particularly the Dalmatian and great white pelicans, are among the park’s most iconic residents.

Other key species include spoonbills, herons, storks, grebes, and various ducks and geese. Birds of prey such as marsh harriers and osprey are also spotted frequently. Many species breed within the park, and extensive nesting colonies create vibrant soundscapes in spring. The park also supports mammals such as foxes, hedgehogs, and small rodents, though the focus remains overwhelmingly on its avian population.

Popular features of Kuşcenneti National Park include its bird observation towers and wooden walkways that allow visitors to explore the wetlands without disturbing the wildlife. The Kuşcenneti Visitor Center offers educational exhibits, maps, and information about bird migration and conservation.

Interpretive panels along the trails help guide visitors and enhance appreciation for the park’s ecological importance. The park is especially lively during the Kuşcenneti Bird Festival, held annually to celebrate the peak of the spring migration.

Visitors engage with the park primarily through birdwatching, photography, and educational walks. The peaceful setting and slow rhythm of nature make it ideal for reflective experiences and family-friendly visits. Spring and early summer are the most popular times to explore the park, when bird activity is at its highest and the wetland landscape is at its most vibrant.

Conservation efforts in Kuşcenneti National Park date back to the 1950s, making it one of Turkey’s earliest examples of protected wetland management. Its designation as a national park in 1959 marked a milestone in national conservation history.

Ongoing challenges include agricultural runoff, fluctuating water levels, and pressure from surrounding land use. However, collaborative efforts between local authorities, universities, and international conservation bodies have led to the successful monitoring and protection of key species.

Continued vigilance and sustainable tourism practices remain essential to preserving this irreplaceable bird haven.

Park Map

Kuşcenneti National Park Highlights

Wildlife

Kuşcenneti National Park, located near Lake Kuş (Bird Lake) in Balıkesir Province of western Turkey, is internationally renowned as one of the most important wetlands for bird conservation in Europe and the Middle East. While it is primarily famous for its birdlife, the park’s reed beds, marshes, and surrounding forests also support a small but fascinating group of mammals and reptiles adapted to wetland and woodland environments.

Red Fox
This adaptable predator is frequently seen along forest edges and near marshy areas. It preys on rodents and birds but also scavenges for fish, amphibians, and fruits.

Golden Jackal
Roaming the reed beds and wet meadows, the golden jackal is a vocal and opportunistic carnivore. It feeds on small mammals, birds, and carrion and is often heard howling in the evenings.

European Wildcat
This elusive feline inhabits dense reed beds and quiet woodland patches around the park. It is nocturnal and solitary, preying on small birds and rodents in the underbrush.

European Hedgehog
Found in grassy and scrubby areas, the hedgehog feeds on insects, worms, and small amphibians. It is primarily active at night and curls into a ball when threatened.

European Badger
This burrowing mammal is active during the night and forages for worms, insects, and fruit in the forested sections of the park. Its broad build and white-striped face make it easy to recognize on camera traps.

Wild Boar
Occasionally venturing into the reed beds and forest fringes, wild boars dig through mud and soil for roots, invertebrates, and fallen fruit. They are strong and social animals.

European Water Shrew
This small, semi-aquatic insectivore is found along wet ditches and pond edges. It dives underwater in search of insect larvae and has dense, waterproof fur.

Grass Snake
A harmless and common reptile in the wetlands, the grass snake is an excellent swimmer and primarily feeds on amphibians and fish. It is often seen basking on warm rocks or reed mats.

Dice Snake
Another non-venomous aquatic snake, the dice snake is typically found along the lake’s edges. It dives and swims underwater to catch fish, and its spotted body helps it blend with surroundings.

European Pond Turtle
Inhabiting the shallow lakes and marshes of the park, this freshwater turtle is often seen sunbathing on logs or rocks. It feeds on insects, plants, and small aquatic animals.

Birds

Kuşcenneti National Park is one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world, providing critical breeding and resting grounds for hundreds of migratory bird species traveling along the Afro-Eurasian flyway.

Dalmatian Pelican
This massive, endangered waterbird nests in colonies on Lake Kuş. It feeds primarily on fish and is a key symbol of the park’s conservation success.

Greater Flamingo
Flocks of these elegant birds feed in the shallow waters by filtering brine shrimp and algae. Their striking pink color and synchronized movements are a park highlight.

White-headed Duck
This endangered diving duck is a specialist of shallow, reedy lakes. Males have a bright blue bill and feed underwater on aquatic vegetation and insects.

Pygmy Cormorant
A small, dark waterbird, the pygmy cormorant fishes in the lake’s shallow waters and nests in reeds and low trees. It is often seen drying its wings on branches.

Glossy Ibis
With iridescent feathers and long, curved bills, these elegant waders forage in the muddy shallows for insects and aquatic invertebrates.

Spoonbill
Easily recognized by its wide, spoon-shaped bill, the spoonbill sweeps the water to catch fish and crustaceans. It nests in colonies on the edges of the wetland.

Squacco Heron
This small heron blends into the reeds with its buff-colored plumage. It is often motionless near water, ready to spear fish or frogs with lightning-fast strikes.

Marsh Harrier
Gliding low over the reeds, this bird of prey hunts waterbirds and small mammals. Its distinctive flight and sharp vision make it a dominant predator in the wetland.

Avocet
With its striking black-and-white plumage and upturned bill, the avocet is often seen wading in shallow water. It sweeps its bill side to side while foraging for tiny invertebrates.

Black-winged Stilt
Tall and slender with long red legs, this wader feeds on aquatic insects in the shallows. Its delicate appearance and graceful movements make it a visitor favorite.

Kuşcenneti National Park lives up to its name—“Bird Paradise”—by providing critical habitat for an astonishing range of bird species, while also offering a peaceful refuge for wetland-adapted mammals and reptiles in one of Turkey’s most valuable conservation areas.