We recently had the pleasure of introducing a group of students from the College Year in Athens (CYA) to the world of birding. For many, this was their first time birdwatching, so our easy-going walk at Tritsis Metropolitan Park, just a short drive from the city center, was the perfect way to start.
The park’s mix of wetlands, open fields and wooded areas gave us plenty of opportunities to spot a variety of birds. Early in the walk, we visited the northern wetland area and were rewarded with views of Mallards and Teal gliding across the water. At least 5 Grey Herons stood tall nearby, and the students were amazed at how still it stayed while hunting for food.
The highlight of the day was finding a colony of 18 Black-crowned Night Herons. These beautiful birds, with their black and white feathers and red eyes, have successfully made this park their home and are a great example of how wildlife can thrive in urban areas around Athens.
As we continued through the park, we spotted familiar birds like House Sparrows and Tree Sparrows, as well as lively Blue Tits and Great Tits hopping through the trees. A bright Robin showed off its orange chest, and Hooded Crows circled above. Along the paths, a White Wagtail entertained us as it bobbed its tail while searching for insects.
This tour was designed with beginners in mind, focusing on making birding fun and accessible. The students quickly picked up tips on how to spot and identify birds and were excited to see how many species can be found so close to the city.
Tritsis Metropolitan Park is a great spot for anyone new to birding or looking for an easy and rewarding nature experience without leaving Athens.
Bird list from December 8th 2024
Greylag Goose (dom.)
Muscovy Duck (dom.)
Egyptian Goose
Mallard
Eurasian Teal
Greater Cormorant
Grey Heron
Black-crowned Night heron
Moorhen
Eurasian Coot
Common Buzzard
Hooded Crow
Magpie
Black-headed Gull
Yellow-legged Gull
Collared Dove
Ring-necked Parakeet
Alexandrine Parakeet
White Wagtail
Eurasian Robin
Great Tit
Blue Tit
Black Redstart
Blackbird
Chiffachaff
Cettit's Warbler (heard)
Sardinian Warbler (heard)
Wren (heard)
Chaffinch
House Sparrow
Tree Sparrow
