Schinias National Park: An ideal shelter for birds and wildlife

A group of Glossy Ibises (Plegadis falcinellus) are taking off from a water pond between the reedbeds. (Photo Spyros Skareas)

Fall migration reaches its peak in September, and Schinias National Park is a crucial

temporary stopover for migrants that head south to Africa. Thousands of birds from

the northern hemisphere move south, in order to have access to more favorable

conditions and food availability. Several species such as most hirundines, hoopoes,

waders, storks and raptors have started their long journey to the south hemisphere,

resting for a few days at Schinias National Park.

Woodchat Shrike (Lanius senator) in it’s breeding territory at Ramnous fields, Marathon (Photo Spyros Skareas)

Dunlins (Calidris alpina) rest for a few days at Schinias National Park during fall migration (Photo Spyros Skareas)

Apart from migratory species, the area is hosting a significant amount of all year

breeding species, due to its plethora of unspoiled habitats and availability of food

recourses. No wonder why Schinias is the best and most loved birdwatching and bird

photography destination around Athens for birders from all over the world. More

than 240 species of birds have been recorded, making it the highest ranking location

of Attica region in E-bird, based on species number and bird lists submitted.

Black-winged Stilts (Himantopus himantopus) arrive every spring at Schinias National Park. After successful breeding their depart in September, for their long journey to Africa. (Photo Spyros Skareas)

Lesser Grey Shrikes (Lanius minor) are often seen perching on fences, looking for their next prey (Photo Spyros Skareas)

Spyros Skareas

Bird Guide & Tour Leader

www.greecebirdtours.com