Mount Ararat National Park hosts rare grey-headed swamphens

Academics from Iğdır University have identified six individuals of the rare grey-headed swamphen (Porphyrio poliocephalus) in the Karasu Wetlands within Mount Ararat National Park. This species, which typically inhabits South Asia, including India, Cambodia, and Vietnam, was first observed in the park in 2022.

Mount Ararat National Park, Turkey's largest national park, serves as a significant habitat for both native and migratory bird species. Researchers have documented over 210 different bird species in the area to date. The grey-headed swamphen is noted for its striking appearance, with a body length of 40 to 50 centimeters and a wingspan reaching up to 100 centimeters.