Birding in Albania: Exploring Unique Birds and Pristine Habitats

Birding enthusiasts from around the world are increasingly discovering the hidden gem of Albania as a premier destination for birdwatching - hosting some of the most important coastal lagoons as giant pit-stops for annual bird migration and more. This Balkan country, nestled between Greece and Montenegro, offers a diverse range of habitats that are home to a remarkable array of bird species. From coastal wetlands to mountainous regions, Albania provides a haven for both resident and migratory birds, making it a must-visit location for any avid birdwatcher. One of the main reasons why birding in Albania is so appealing is the presence of unique bird species that are rarely found elsewhere in Europe. The country's geographical location and varied landscapes create a perfect environment for a rich avian biodiversity. Let's explore some of Albania's most pristine bird species and the habitats they call home:

1. Dalmatian Pelican (Pelecanus crispus): The Dalmatian Pelican, a remarkable bird species, has a notable presence in Albania, particularly through a significant breeding colony. At the beginning of the last century, it used to be in numbers of 250 pairs and with the worst days of only 15 pairs in the 1990s. Today, there is a colony of around 70 pairs breeding only in the Karavasta Lagoon, with feeding grounds also in the Narta Lagoon complex and other key wetland areas. These habitats are crucial for the species, offering ample food resources and suitable nesting conditions. The colony in Albania is of considerable importance, as it contributes significantly to the overall population of Dalmatian Pelicans in the region - it makes the most western colony found in Europe. Efforts to monitor and protect these habitats are vital for the conservation of this species, highlighting Albania's role in the preservation of the Dalmatian Pelican at both a regional and international level.

Credits: PPNEA

2. Collared pratincole (Glareola pratincola): The Collared Pratincole, a distinctive bird species, has significant breeding populations in Albania. Recent studies have shed light on the species' breeding numbers, distribution, and habitat preferences within the country. Initially focused on two known colonies, researchers expanded their exploration to the western coastal lowlands, identifying similar habitats for potential new colonies. This effort led to the discovery of seven new colonies, hosting between 557 and 637 pairs. These colonies were predominantly located in abandoned agricultural lands, formerly drained wetlands, now mainly covered with Salicornia sp., comprising 60-70% vegetation, and the rest being bare ground. This finding has quadrupled the known national population of the Collared Pratincole in Albania, highlighting its significance in the European context, with Albania hosting approximately 4.3 to 8.1% of the European population of this species.

Credits: PPNEA

3. Egyptian vulture (Neophron percnopterus): The Egyptian Vulture, known locally as Kali i Qyqes in Albanian, represents the only vulture species still breeding in Albania. Historically widespread throughout the country, from north to south, including coastal areas like Durrës, Vlora, and Shkodra, its population has now dramatically contracted. Currently, the remaining population, comprising around 14 adult individuals, is confined to an area of about 1,500 square kilometres along and south of the Vjosa River basin. These vultures are distributed across 9 territories, with 5 being occupied by breeding pairs and 4 by solitary individuals. Notably, since 2012, while the number of occupied territories has remained constant, the population has declined from 18 adults to around 9 breeding pairs, underscoring the critical conservation status of this species in southern Albania.

Credits: Unsplash

4. The Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos): The Golden Eagle, or "Shqiponja e Malit" in Albanian, is a symbol of national pride and a key species in Albania's diverse ecosystems. Predominantly found in the country's mountainous regions, these majestic birds of prey thrive in areas with rugged terrains and rocky cliffs, ideal for nesting and hunting. Despite stable numbers in Albania, contrasting with declines in other parts of Europe, the Golden Eagle faces challenges from habitat loss and human disturbance. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their natural habitats to ensure the survival of this iconic species.

Credits: Birds of Albania (Shpendët e Shqipërisë)

5. Great Spotted Cuckoo (Clamator glandarius): It has been observed breeding within the Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape, marking a significant finding for bird enthusiasts and conservationists alike. This species, known for its striking appearance and distinctive behavior, adds to the rich avian biodiversity of this important ecological area. The Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape, encompassing a range of habitats from the Vjosa River to the Narta Lagoon, provides an ideal environment for the Great Spotted Cuckoo. The presence of this bird as a breeding species highlights the area's ecological significance and the importance of ongoing conservation efforts to protect and preserve the diverse wildlife found in this region of Albania.

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