Approximately 9000 species of birds have been recorded worldwide, of which 426 have been observed in Greece. The country is very important as a wintering and nesting area, as well as a resting-place for those birds that cover great distances during their migrations. The Museum has a rich collection of birds, representing 95% of the Greek avifauna.
In a large 22 meter display showing mountains, forests, plains, wetlands and sea coasts, 180 species of birds nesting in Greece are presented in their natural biotopes: The representations, the colours, the natural positions, compose a vivid image of the ornithological world of Greece.
The display starts with the arid landscape of mountains, with its golden eagles, the various vultures and other birds of prey. It goes on to the forest showing choughs, owls, jays etc. Birds living in plains have adapted their coloration to the environment. There are black birds, wood pigeons, golden orioles and crows. On trees there are songbirds, the nightingale, the greenfinch, the goldfinch etc. There are also hoopoes, cuckoos, rollers, Calandra larks, wagtails, starlings etc.
Lakes and river mouths are the display’s most impressive part. Storks, swans, crane- a very rare bird- and among reeds some of our most beautiful birds, the herons, the night heron, glossy ibis, black-winged stilt, multicoloured ducks, geese, white egret, spoonbill, avocet, bee eaters and the impressive pelicans. Finally, sandy beaches and rocks host a variety of seagulls, cormorants, kingfishers and the Eleanor’s falcon.
A rich collection of African birds shows characteristic species such as the sacred ibis, the African spoonbill, the Ethiopian kingfisher, the colourful starlings, shrikes, touracos, coucals etc. The rare Quetzal of Central America, with its impressive plumage attracts the admiration of visitors.
Collection
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