Every season thousands of birds find refuge there or utilize the delta as a stopover on their journey to warmer climates. The Evros Delta wetland is a perfect spot for that since it provides 200.000 acres of which 95.000 acres are listed as a protected area of the Ramsar International Convention (1971). Moreover, a part of the Delta belongs to the European Network Natura 2000.
Floral diversity of the Evros Delta National Park
The flora of the delta is unique and it is famous for a great number of domestic and rare species. It has been documented that the immense variety of plants does not depend on the climate but on the sediments of the river as well as the level of water salinity.
According to researchers there have been observed more than 300 different kinds of plants. There are plane trees poplars, willows, and alders growing on the river banks. In the water lilies and water-chestnuts are floating while the vast meadows host irises and orchids. While one very distinctive feature is composed of glassworts that cover the shores and during the autumn get a deep red color.
The fauna biodiversity of Evros National Park
The fauna of the Evros Delta includes 40 species of mammals, 28 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 46 species of fish. The fish though are separated to those that thrive in freshwater like pike, catfish, and sazani, as well as though that thrive in saltwater like grey mullet, eel, gilt-head bream, European bass, and plaice (flatfish). When it comes to mammals, reptiles, and amphibians the most common are foxes, badgers, hares, and wildboars, as well as water turtles water snakes, and frogs.
Last but not least the number of birds exceeds 320 different species. The geographical position and the large area that belong to the National park contribute significantly to the large population of birds that move between Africa and Europe, as well as those who choose the area to pass the winter.
Visiting Evros Delta National Park
The information center operating in Traianoupolis was founded in 1997 and has a goal to provide information related to the River Delta. Many educational visits and group tours are organized in the area, while the type of the provided excursions can include the wetland route minibus or boat tours.
As a part of the tour, the visitors can firstly watch a screening of a documentary related to the wetlands of the Evros Delta. Then, they are transported by minibus to observe the birds with binoculars on spot. Additionally, if the weather allows, they can join a boat tour.