Best time to visit Athens

Birdwatching in Athens

Herons, egrets, gulls, warblers, ducks, grebes, owls and​ other feathery fellows will delight your eyes and ears

Best time: April–May | September–October

Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching

Athens is a magnet not only for the connoisseurs of the ancient architecture and culture but for keen birders as well. One great area to spot a great feathery variety is Hymettus Mountain which is densely populated by a number of species including Turtle Doves, Short-toed Eagles, Rock Nuthatches, Red-rumped Swallows, Chukar, Hoopoes, Sombre Tits, Black-eared Wheatears, Blue Rock Thrushes, and other sophisticated names probably recognisable only by true birders. The mountainous forests also host a variety of swifts, warblers, and buntings. Some birds, like warblers, in particular, are recognisable by their beautiful chirping, although they are quite difficult to spot in person. Another birdwatching hotspot is Schinias National Park which has around 200 different bird species—both migratory and endemic. The variety is huge despite its relatively small area of 50 square km owing to the fact that it is divided into many different habitats. The target birds of this park include a variety of herons, a nu​mber of warblers, and many other colourful birds. The best season for birdwatching is spring, particularly early April through May when the first migration occurs. Another vibrant birding season can be observed during the autumnal migration from September through October.

Practical info

Where can one find a diverse population of birds in Athens?

Hymettus Mountain is densely populated by a number of bird species including Turtle Doves, Short-toed Eagles, Rock Nuthatches, Red-rumped Swallows, and many others. Schinias National Park is also home to around 200 different bird species - both migratory and endemic. Birdwatchers can observe the beauty of Athens's birdlife in the aforementioned areas. Show more

What is the season to visit Athens for bird watching?

Spring, especially in early April through May, is the best time to visit Athens for birdwatching, as well as the autumnal migration from September through October. These seasons offer a great chance for bird watchers to see birds such as Turtle Doves, Short-toed Eagles, Rock Nuthatches, Red-rumped Swallows, and many others. Show more

Which bird species reside in Hymettus Mountain?

Hymettus Mountain accommodates Turtle Doves, Short-toed Eagles, Rock Nuthatches, Red-rumped Swallows, Chukar, Hoopoes, Sombre Tits, Black-eared Wheatears, Blue Rock Thrushes, and many others. The birds' melodious sounds fill the air, yet it can be challenging to spot some such as the warblers. Show more

What are some of the birds that migrate to Schinias National Park?

Schinias National Park is home to around 200 different bird species - both migratory and endemic. Some of the birds that migrate to Schinias National Park include many heron types, warblers, and numerous multicolored birds. During the bird migration, the mix of bird species intensifies, and bird lovers can experience the beauty of the different species. Show more

What are the various habitats in Schinias National Park that contribute to the diversity of the bird population?

Schinias National Park is unique since it is divided into diverse habitats such as pine forests, sand dunes, beaches, and wetlands. The differentiation of habitats affects the elements of a range of bird species, including many heron types, different warblers, and multicolored birds. The variety of habitats within the park encourages the growth of diverse bird species in the area. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin