Aras Bird Paradise records 200,000th bird in 21-year study

Researchers at the Aras Bird Paradise in Turkey have reached a significant milestone, recording their 200,000th bird during a 21-year study. The 200,000th bird captured was the Caucasus leaf warbler (Phylloscopus lorenzii), a species found specifically in the Caucasus region.

The research is conducted by the KuzeyDoğa Association with support from Utah and Koç universities and permission from the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks. Operating out of the Aras Bird Research and Training Center in the Tuzluca district of Iğdır, the project is currently in its 41st season.

Center supervisor Gül Tutar noted that the area is vital due to its combination of steppe and wetland habitats. The site serves as a critical location for birds to breed, feed, and rest during migration. The research provides essential data on migration routes, timing, and feeding habits, particularly for endangered species that use the area while traveling between northern summering grounds and African wintering grounds.