Property in Turkey | Wildlife in Turkey

Turkey is probably one of the most biologically diverse countries in Europe and home to some of the breeds of animals that have since spread around the world.

Goats and sheep were first raised in the foothills of the mountains of Anatolia, while pheasants are said to come from here, with its scientific name of Phasianus colchicus derived from Phasianus, the Classical name of the Kizilirmak river and Colhia, an ancient kingdom that extended to the Black Sea.

In addition, in more ancient times, wildlife in Turkey such as leopards and tigers also roamed the land and while it is a sad fact that these are no more, action is taken to preserve current endangered creatures.

In addition, around 80,000 species still remain to be seen in Turkey and bird spotters in particular are keen on visiting wildlife in Turkey owing to it being a prime site of many mass migrations. Hopa in north-east Turkey, the Coruh river valley in eastern Anatolia and Antakya in the south-east of the country are the key spots for anyone keen to spot some birds.

In particular, the Coruh valley is also host to around 250,000 fowls, mostly birds of prey, making it one of the largest such collections of migrating birds of prey in the world. For those looking for gentler winged creatures, storks also migrate en masse across Istanbul in the spring and autumn.

Turkey's 300,000 square miles means that despite being a modern country, it also has large stretches of uninhabited areas where wildlife in Turkey can roam free.

The monk seal is just one example of a species that has survived along the nation's Mediterranean and Aegean coastline, as have loggerhead turtles. Monkseals are rare and are only found on the shores of the Western Sahara and the Atlantic Ocean as others in the region have been wiped out. Turkish law now protects them, ensuring their survival for several more generations.

They join the list of endangered species in Turkey, including flamingos, wild ducks, geese, the Dalmatian pelican and the pygmy cormorant. However, efforts to control pollution and other legislation are helping to ensure the survival of wildlife in Turkey.

Turkey's environment ministry often designates specially protected areas to ensure that species and their habitats, such as the Yumurtalik and Akyatan wetland areas, are protected.

While many areas are protected to conserve species, others are open to allow visitors, with the Black Sea region offering a wealth of opportunities. Here one can see eagles, falcons, hawks, woodcocks, weasels, rabbits, squirrels, pine martens, wild goats, mountain goats and foxes, while the more adventurous can seek out even wolves, wild boars and bears.

Combined with Turkey's stunning selection of flowers, trees and other wildlife in Turkey, the eco-tourist, or just someone with an interest in Turkey's great outdoors, has plenty to see all across Anatolia.

Buy property in Turkey and experience the great outdoors.