Description
Tekirdağ Atatürk Ormanı is a calm and pleasant forest area just outside the city of Tekirdağ, offering a mix of pine woods, scattered bushes, small clearings, and shaded walking paths. This combination of habitats makes it an easy and enjoyable place to watch birds throughout the year.
In spring and summer, the forest comes alive with species like House Sparrow, Common Starling, Eurasian Collared Dove and Great Tit. Migrant birds such as Common Chaffinch, Black-eared Wheatear, or Willow Warbler may also pass through during the migration seasons. In winter, the quieter months still offer regular sightings of Eurasian Tree Sparrow, European Stonechat and flocks of European Goldfinch feeding in the open areas. The surrounding sky is also good for spotting raptors like Common Buzzard or Sparrowhawk circling above the trees.
What makes Atatürk Ormanı special is its peaceful atmosphere. It’s close to the city but feels quiet and natural, with long shaded paths that make birding comfortable even on warm days. Whether you want a short morning walk or a longer, relaxed outing, this forest provides an easy and rewarding birding experience.
Details
Access
Atatürk Ormanı is located on the western side of Tekirdağ and is easy to reach from the city centre. You can get there by car in just a few minutes, and there is usually enough space to park along the forest entrance or on nearby side roads. Press P on the map for directions.
Public transport also works well. Several local buses heading toward the western districts stop close to the park, from where you can walk into the forest in about 5–10 minutes.
The best way to explore the area is definitely on foot. The forest has wide, easy walking paths and gentle slopes, making it suitable for all levels. For a relaxed birding visit, plan to spend 1–2 hours, though you can easily stay longer if you want to explore deeper into the trees or wait for more activity.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Park , City/villageConditions
FlatCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migration , Autumn migrationRoute
Paved road , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Early morning is the best time to visit, as the forest is quiet and birds are most active. The area is also good for short walks and photography, with plenty of shaded spots to stop and listen for calls. In spring, you may hear different warbler species singing from the bushes, while in autumn mixed flocks of European Goldfinch and Common Chaffinch often move through the trees.
There are no facilities inside the forest, so bringing water is a good idea, especially on warm days. The paths are well-marked and easy to follow, making it a comfortable place for beginners as well as more experienced birders.