On the Aegean coast are two deltas of particular importance where birdlife is concerned. One of these is the Gediz Delta, where the Izmir Kuscenneti bird sanctuary is located (also known as Camalti Tuzlasi), and which lies just 25 kilometres northwest of Izmir at the mouth of the gulf. This bird sanctuary is famous for its flamingos, and has paths and observation towers which enable visitors to get a good view of the birds without disturbing them. This is a perfect place to spend a weekend in spring or summer. South of Izmir is the Buyuk Menderes Delta, which is the largest and also the most important delta in terms of birdlife in the Aegean region.

The scenes you are likely to see on the northern shore of the delta early one sunny spring morning will be imprinted on your memory for ever. Flamingos, herons and pelicans provide the only movement in the still water of the delta, and of course the fishermen, who still use the traditional methods they have used for centuries. After visiting the delta, you can spend the rest of the day visiting the ancient cities of Miletus and Priene, both among the most spectacular sights in western Turkey. Here you will be able to see not only history but also an abundance of songbirds which make their home in the ruins.

Birdwatchers who come to Turkey for the first time should certainly start or end their journey in Istanbul if they come in those months. The other must on their itinerary is the wetlands, of which the nearest to Istanbul is just a two and a half hour drive away. This is Kuscenneti, one of Turkey’s first national parks, near Bandirma. Although this consists of a small willow forest on the shores of Lake Manyas (Aliaga Kus Golu), astonishingly large numbers of birds come here. Large species which nest in the willow copses include spoonbills, squacco herons, night herons, little egrets, grey herons, glossy ibises, cormorants and pygmy cormorants. Dalmatian pelicans, which are an endangered species, breed on special platforms built for them here. If you come in May or June, try looking out from the observation tower in this bird sanctuary.