Kizilirmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary

Kizilirmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary

The Kızılırmak River, which both begins and flows entirely within Turkey, is the nation’s longest river. Stretching for 1,355 km, its drainage basin covers a large area of Central Anatolia. The river passes through several provinces, including Sivas, Kayseri, Nevşehir, Kırıkkale, Çankırı, and Çorum, before ultimately emptying into the Black Sea. The extensive alluvial delta formed by the Kızılırmak plays a vital role in the delta and wetland ecosystems of the South Black Sea Basin.

Kizilirmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary

The Kızılırmak Delta hosts a wide variety of aquatic life along with diverse plant and animal species, creating a distinctive ecological area. Its habitats—including the sea, river, lake, marsh, swamp, meadow, pasture, and forest—present a breathtaking natural panorama seldom found in other wetland regions. This stunning landscape draws nature lovers and bird watchers who enjoy photographing rare bird species and the varied scenery that composes this exceptional ecosystem. During migration periods, the visitor center and birdwatching house provide memorable experiences for enthusiasts eager to observe the many elements of this protected environment.

The Kızılırmak Delta ranks among the few remaining wetlands worldwide with such abundant biodiversity and a variety of habitats. It is recognized as one of the 422 globally threatened Important Bird Areas. The delta supports 213 species of freshwater algae, 48 species of zooplankton, 35 species of benthic fauna, 561 plant species, 29 fish species, 9 amphibian species, 12 reptile species, 34 mammal species, and 352 bird species.

In 2016, the Kızılırmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary was included on the UNESCO Tentative List, highlighting its importance as a treasured natural heritage site.

If you have any questions or would like more information about the Kızılırmak Delta Wetland and Bird Sanctuary, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply send us a message on Whatsapp, and we will get back to you promptly.