Best time to travel to Greece

Dalmatian Pelican Breeding Season in Greece

An entire colony of this endangered species breeds on Lake Kerkini in winter

Best time: mid-January–March

Dalmatian Pelican Breeding Season
Dalmatian Pelican Breeding Season
Dalmatian Pelican Breeding Season

Lake Kerkini is a real treasure for photographers who come here every winter to picture a rare and beautiful Dalmatian Pelican. An adult weights up to 15 kilos which makes it one of the largest of bird species. The wingspan is awe-inspiring 350 cm which rivals even that of great albatross. A colony of these great yet endangered birds stays on Lake Kerkini in winter to breed. As a migrating species, they formerly used to abandon the area for this time of year until local fishermen built them a nesting platform and started feeding them. On such terms, they no longer have any reason to leave.

Dalmatian Pelicans are particularly charming during the breeding season. They obtain a dull yellow bill, silvery-grey plumage, and the most outstanding part is the lower mandible and pouch that turn orange-red during the season. Behaviour also differs from usual—silent birds get rather vocal producing a range of sounds including barks, hisses, and grunts.

The breeding season runs from mid-January to March. A boat ride is a perfect way to get closer to these gorgeous birds and take plenty of exquisite shots.

Practical info

When is the breeding season of Dalmatian Pelicans in Lake Kerkini, and what makes it a popular time to visit?

The breeding season for Dalmatian Pelicans in Lake Kerkini starts from mid-January and lasts until March. During this window, the pelicans change colour, acquiring a dull yellow bill, silvery-grey feathers with a white crest, and orange-red lower mandible and pouch. This makes for a breathtaking sight and a popular time for photographers to visit the lake from all over the world. Show more

What is the location of Lake Kerkini, and what transport options are available for visitors?

Lake Kerkini is situated in Central Macedonia, Greece, near the city of Serres, about 35 km away. Visitors have several transport options, including taxi, bus, or car rental. They could hire a cab from the city center or take a public bus to Kerkini Lake Bus Stop. Moreover, renting a car is a possibility, allowing tourists to have greater flexibility and independence while traveling. Show more

What aspects of Lake Kerkini make it a hub for bird photography?

Lake Kerkini is famous among bird photographers due to its varied ecosystem, abundant wildlife, and its central location on the migratory path of many species. The breeding season of Dalmatian Pelicans attracts a lot of visitors each winter, while many other bird species can be observed during the migratory period. The natural landscape surrounding the lake also makes for stunning backdrops, providing numerous opportunities for photographers to get mesmerizing shots. Show more

What was the role of local fishermen in the conservation of Dalmatian Pelicans in Lake Kerkini?

The local fishermen of Lake Kerkini supported the conservation of Dalmatian Pelicans by creating nesting platforms and feeding them during winter months when they previously left the area. This initiative helped to restore the pelican population in the region while also improving the local tourism industry. Dalmatian Pelicans are now regular residents of the area, and tourists can enjoy these beautiful birds year-round. Show more

Is it possible to take a boat ride to view the pelicans up-close in Lake Kerkini, and what is the duration of these boat trips?

Yes, visitors to Lake Kerkini can take a boat ride for an up-close view of the pelicans. The average duration of such rides is 40-50 minutes, and they run three to four times a day during the breeding season, leaving visitors plenty of opportunities to get on board. The price of a boat tour normally ranges from 10 to 20 euros, and every tour has a limited capacity to avoid overcrowding for the comfort of visitors. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin