Sultan Sazlığı wetland revives in Turkey after heavy rains

In the Develi, Yeşilhisar and Yahyalı districts of Kayseri Province, the Sultan Sazlığı wetland has refilled following a season of increased rainfall. After a severe drought the previous year had lowered water levels and reduced wildlife, the recent rains have restored water, allowing the area—home to 301 bird species and a key stop on the Europe‑Africa migratory route—to become a thriving habitat again.

Local merchant Doğukan Atasoy observed the change, saying, "Geçen yıl yağışlar olmadığı için burada kimse yoktu. Bu yıl su seviyesinin artmasıyla birlikte kuş çeşitliliği de tekrar arttı." He noted that the rise in water level is boosting tourism and the local economy, and expressed hope to attract more visitors from Turkey and abroad. Drone footage captured the renewed water and wildlife activity in the wetland.

The wetland was designated a "strictly protected sensitive area" in 2020, and its revival is seen as a positive sign for both biodiversity and regional tourism.