Mute Swan Cygnus olor

Winter visitor

It has become quite regular in the last few years. Small group of up to 6 birds are usually seen in January and February.

Common Shelduck Tadorna tadorna

Winter visitor

Rare winter visitor, and almost all records refer to just one bird.

Eurasian Teal Anas crecca

Winter visitor

Regular winter visitor, up to 40 birds can be seen every year in the seasonal pool in front of the museum or the flooded areas of the coastal zone.

Mallard Anas platyrhynchos

Winter visitor

Regular winter visitor, up to 10 birds have been recorded at the seasonal pool in front of the museum. At least one pair breeds when water is retained until summer in the wetland.

Northern Pintail Anas acuta

Winter visitor

As with all other ducks, there are very few records of single individuals.

Garganey Anas querquedula

Passage migrant

In spring, where large part of the area is flooded, small flocks (up to 10 individuals), while in fall where the area is dry it hasn’t been recorded at all.

Northern Shoveler Anas clypeata

Winter visitor

Rare visitor, singles or 1-2 pairs have been recorded in the seasonal pond in front of the Museum.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix

Passage migrant

A very secretive species, stays hidden in lush vegetation, flushed always at the very last minute, and flying away with rapid wingbeats. It is recorded in spring and fall, mainly in the nearby Papoutsi and Pyrgari Hills.

Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis

Winter visitor

Seen in small numbers (up to 3 individuals) from late autumn to early spring. It is also an occasional breeder.

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus

Winter visitor

A scarce visitor, found always in the coastal zone.

Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

Winter visitor

It is recorded in late fall and winter in the coastal zone.

Cory’s Shearwater Calonectris diomedea

Non-breeding visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Cory's Shearwaters can be seen flying low in the open sea, from spring to fall.

Yelkouan Shearwater Puffinus yelkouan

Non-breeding visitor

Flocks of up to c.300 birds can be seen along the coast, feeding on schools of fish.

Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Singles or small groups of up to 10 birds are frequently recorded in the coastal zone.

Eurasian Bittern Botaurus stellaris

Accidental

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It was first recorded in March, 2011.

Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Little Bitterns are a common sight in April and May, in the reeds along Erasinos. The species is scarce in fall and can be recorded till late October.

Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Recorded mainly in spring, from late April to late May. It prefers Erasinos banks, often roosting in trees.

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Regular spring migrant, mainly in April and May. It can be seen everywhere, from the flooded areas of the coast to the riparian stands of Erasinos. Solitary individuals can also be seen in summer.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

Resident

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Though not a "true" resident, the Little Egret can be found all year round. It's more common in spring, where flocks of 10-20 birds are seen, while 2-3 birds overwinter. It has been also recorded in summer (21/6/2008, 1 ind.).

Great Egret Egretta alba

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

One individual is recorded almost every winter, during the last years. It can also be recorded during migration, especially in spring, always close to the coast.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Resident

Like the Little Egret, it can be recorded all year long, in smaller numbers. It is usually found in the coastal zone, using for roosting large trees and rocks.

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Typical species of the reedbeds, it is recorded in spring, from mid April to late May.

White Stork Ciconia ciconia

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A species that’s hard to see. Most observations refer to overflying flocks, from August to September.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It is found in wet meadows and flooded fields, therefore it is usually recorded in spring.

Eurasian Spoonbill Platalea leucorodia

Accidental

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It has been recorded very few times in the past.

Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus

Accidental

79/409 Directive, Annex I

In 2009 a juvenile bird was found exhausted in the coastal zone.

European Honey Buzzard Pernis apivorus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It is recorded during both migration periods, single birds flying over the area.

Black Kite Milvus migrans

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A very rare visitor, has been recorded very few times so far.

Short-toed Snake Eagle Circaetus gallicus

Summer visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A regular visitor to the area, during migration and in the summer, where birds nesting in adjacent areas forage for food. It prefers the open areas of Pirgari-Papoutsi hills.

Western Marsh Harrier Circus aeruginosus

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

An irregular visitor, it freqquents flooded areas and reedbeds. It is also recorded during migration.

Northern Harrier Circus cyaneus

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

An irregular visitor, like the Marsh Harrier. 1-2 birds are usually seen. It is also recorded during migration.

Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It prefers cultivations, flying low in search of small birds and mammals.

Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

More common in spring than autumn, it is most usually seen flying over.

Eurasian Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus

Winter visitor

Very common in winter, taking advantage of the abundant food (small and medium sized birds). It can be also observed during migration, while there are a few records in summer.

Common Buzzard Buteo buteo

Resident

Very common winter visitor. In the summer, birds from adjacent areas are frequently seen foraging.

Long-legged Buzzard Buteo rufinus

Resident, breeding

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It is recorded all year long. At least one pair nests in the area (most probably in the nearby Perati Hill). It preys on reptiles and small mammals.

Booted Eagle Aquila pennata

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A species becoming scarce in Greece, the Booted Eagle is rarely recorded during migration.

Bonelli's Eagle Aquila fasciata

Accidental

79/409 Directive, Annex I

The first record for the species was in 2006, where a juvenile was seen attacking Magpies.

Osprey Pandion haliaetus

Accidental

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It has been recorded very few times during migration.

Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It is recorded mainly in spring, almost always in fields. Most records refer to individuals or small groups of 3-5 birds.

Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus

Resident, breeding

The most common bird of prey. It nests in rocks and feeds on small mammals, reptiles and insects.

Red-footed Falcon Falco vespertinus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Quite common spring migrant, from mid April to late May, seen usually in small flocks. In autumn it is less common and only individuals are recorded. It is always seen in fields, feeding on insects.

Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

First record, April 2013, flying among a flock of swallows. Fast and agile, it is very difficult to be seen.

Eleonora's Falcon Falco eleonorae

Non breeding visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

In spring and early summer, Eleonora's Falcons can be seen flying over the area, looking for large insects.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

Resident, breeding

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Peregrines can be seen year round, searching for prey. In the wider area there is a nesting pair, while more birds arrive in winter.

Water Rail Rallus aquaticus

Resident, breeding

Hard to see but very easy to hear due to its characteristic pig-like calls. It nests in reedbeds along Erasinos river in small numbers.

Spotted Crake Porzana porzana

Passage migrant

A very hard to see species that feeds almost exclusively very close to dense vegetation, avoiding open water. It can be seen along Erasinos River, mainly in spring and rarely in autumn.

Little Crake Porzana parva

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A species that prefers the safety of reeds and lush vegetation, therefore evading tracking. Nevertheless, it is a regular spring migrant, while it has also been recorded in summer.

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Resident, breeding

A common resident along Erasinos river, it can be even seen in flooded fields, as long as there's no disturbance.

Eurasian Coot Fulica atra

Winter visitor

Common and regular, seen in the estuary of Erasinos River or the seasonal pool in front of the Museum.

Common Crane Grus grus

Rare passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Very few times have Cranes been observed in the area. All the records are of individuals or small overflying flocks.

Eurasian Stone-curlew Burhinus oedicnemus

Rare passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A very scarce visitor, susceptible to disturbance with very few records. Quite recently the species was reported as breeding near the new airport. Under certain circumstances there could be a chance of breeding also in Vravrona.

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

A common spring visitor, small groups can be seen from March already. It prefers wet meadows and flooded areas in the coast.

Eurasian Oystercatcher Haematopus ostralegus

Passage migrant

Oystercatchers may be seen only in the coastal zone.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Passage migrant

Solitary birds are observed in the coastal zone, especially when the tide is low.

Northern Lapwing Vanellus vanellus

Rare winter visitor

Nowadays it is a very rare winter visitor, not seen every year. All the recent records are of solitary birds in wet meadows or flooded fields.

Little Ringed Plover Charadrius dubius

Summer visitor, breeding

One pair is nesting every year in the coastal zone. During migration, groups of up to 30 birds can be seen.

Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula

Passage migrant

Much less common than Little Ringed Plover, it is found in the same habitats in much smaller numbers and not so frequently.

Kentish Plover Charadrius alexandrinus

Passage migrant

A species that could also nest, should there wasn't so much disturbance in the coastal zone. For the time being, it is recorded only during migration.

Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus

Accidental

First recorded in April 2014, in the coastal zone.

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata

Passage migrant

Bird of brackish and salt water, seen always in the coastal zone in spring, in small groups of up to 4 birds.

Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa

Passage migrant

Rare spring visitor, found in the coastal zone and the shallow brackish waters near the estuary.

Ruff Calidris pugnax

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

One of the earliest spring migrants, from March already. Apart from the coastal zone, it can be seen in flloded cultivations.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea

Passage migrant

The most common stint from late April to mid May. Always found in the coastal zone, autumn records are very few.

Temminck’s Stint Calidris temminckii

Accidental

It was first recorded in April 2014, in a flooded field.

Sanderling Calidris alba

Passage migrant

Rare spring visitor, alwasy seen along with other Calidris spp.

Dunlin Calidris alpina

Passage migrant

Seen with Little Stints in spring. Autumn records are very few.

Little Stint Calidris minuta

Passage migrant

Small groups can be seen in spring in the coastal zone, while autumn observations are very few, as the are is dry.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Passage migrant

A common sight during both migration periods in the coastal zone. It is very possible that some birds may overwinter.

Green Sandpiper Tringa ochropus

Passage migrant, winter visitor

One of the few waders that overwinter in the area. In the spring it's more common and small groups can be observed wherever there's water

Spotted Redshank Tringa erythropus

Passage migrant

Rare migrant, recorded only in the coastal zone.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Passage migrant

Like the Marsh Sandpiper, it can be seen along with other waders in wet meadows and the coastal zone.

Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis

Passage migrant

A spring visitor, recorded singly along with other waders in wet meadows and the coastal zone.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Probably the most common wader that can be seen in spring. Autumn records are much fewer.

Common Redshank Tringa totanus

Passage migrant

One of the most common waders, can be seen in everywhere near fresh water.

Jack Snipe Lymnocryptes minimus

Winter visitor

Rare winter visitor, very hard to see as it prefers staying still until the very last moment, usually one step before being stepped over.

Eurasian Woodcock Scolopax rusticola

Winter visitor

Very hard to see, and not coming every winter. Its presence depends on the severity of winter.

Common Snipe Gallinago gallinago

Passage migrant, winter visitor

The most common snipe, often recorded in winter and during migration.

Great Snipe Gallinago media

Accidental

First recorded in April 2014, in a flooded field.

Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Suitable habitats are very few in the area, therefore it is very scarce.

Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia

Accidental

A bird was found exhausted in the coastal zone, in August 2014.

White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus

Passage migrant

This tern prefers fresh water, therefore can be seen only in spring in flooded areas, feeding on insects.

Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Regular visitor, up to five birds can be seen at the same time in the shallow waters of Vravrona bay. Birds remain till April.

Little Gull Hydrocoloeus minutus

Winter visitor

Rare visitor, seen mostly singly in the coastal zone.

Slender-billed Gull Larus genei

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Rare and irregular, seen exclustively in the coastal zone.

Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus

Winter visitor

Very common in winter, it can be easily seen in the coast. It is present from late fall to early April, although single birds can be seen almost year round.

Audouin's Gull Larus audouinii

Winter Visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Very rare sight in the area and eastern Attica in general. First seen on February 2012.

Mediterranean Gull Larus melanocephalus

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

An irregular winter visitor, coming in small numbers. January and February are the best months to see it.

Caspian Gull Larus cachinnans

Winter Visitor

Regular visitor that's usually overlooked among the much more common Yellow-legged Gulls.

Yellow-legged Gull Larus michahellis

Resident

The most common gull, can be seen everywhere: from the coastal zone to the cultivated fields, taking advantage of all the available food resources.

Rock Dove Columba livia

Resident, breeding

Flocks of birds that nest in nearby rocky islets fly over the area daily. All the birds seen foraging inside the wetland are Feral Pigeons (Columba livia domesticus).

Stock Dove Columba oenas

Passage migrant

Flocks of Stock Doves are usually seen in autumn. They're very hard to see, being always on the move.

Common Wood Pigeon Columba palumbus

Winter visitor

Very rare and irregular winter visitor, its presence depends on the severity of winter. It prefers cultivations and roosts in the wooded hills.

Eurasian Collared Dove Streptopelia decaocto

Resident, breeding

Found always near man, this dove can be seen near cultivations and human installations.

European Turtle Dove Streptopelia turtur

Summer visitor, breeding

A favorite quarry in fall (and unfortunately, for some in spring), the Turtle Dove arrives in late April, and preferes orchards and wooded hills. A small number (<10 p.) nests.

Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius

Summer visitor

In 2012, the first successful breeding attempt was recorded. The great density of Magpie nests in the area is a magnet for this species, therefore it is expected to have a more regular presence in the future.

Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus

Passage migrant

Its distinctive call can be heard from late March in spring. In autumn is much less common. It can be found in orchards or pine woodland.

Barn Owl Tyto alba

Resident, breeding

A typical nocturnal bird, very rarely seen. The least common of the owls breeding, feeds mainly on rodents and other small mammals.

Eurasian Scops Owl Otus scops

Summer visitor, breeding

Its call, along with the Nightingale's song are the most characteristic sounds of the summer nights. Very hard to see, perching always on large trees.

Little Owl Athene noctua

Resident, breeding

Easy to see, as it has diurnal habits, in rocks. Feeds on large insects and smal mammals.

Tawny Owl Strix aluco

Resident (?), breeding (?)

Recorded in the past, no recent observations made. However, it’s very likely that at least one pair nests in the area. It feeds on small mammals, birds, nesting in rock crevices or holes in trees.

European Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus

Summer visitor, breeding

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Common in the surrounding hills. It’s plain, cricket-like, song can be heard easily in May and June.

Common Swift Apus apus

Summer visitor, breeding

Swifts are common visitors, hunting insects above the cultivated land or the wetland. A small number nests in buildings in or around the area.

Pallid Swift Apus pallidus

Summer visitor

It can be seen, along with Swifts and Alpine Swifts, flying above the area, looking for flying insects.

Alpine Swift Apus melba

Summer visitor

From April to October, Alpine Swifts visit the area for feeding and drinking.

Common Kingfisher Alcedo atthis

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Hard to miss in winter, birds are usually seen sitting in branches or reeds along Erasinos river and its estuary. It feeds on small fish and insects. Its presence may extend from July to late March.

European Bee-eater Merops apiaster

Passage migrant

Flocks of passing Bee-eaters are recorded from mid April to late May, with most records in mid May. It is less common in autumn.

European Roller Coracias garrulus

Accidental

First recorded in April 2014.

Hoopoe Upupa epops

Summer visitor, breeding

An early comer, some birds appearing in late February, the Hoopoe is one of the species that have showed increase in their population. It nests on tree hollows and rock crevices. It's usually seen in fields looking for insects and caterpillars.

Eurasian Wryneck Jynx torquilla

Passage migrant

Secretive, very hard to see or hear. It prefers densely vegetated areas.

Greater Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla

Summer visitor, breeding

79/409 Directive, Annex I

An inhabitant of spasely vegetated ares, this lark breeds in odd pairs in the vineyards. It's threatened by conversion of agriculutural land by the extensive use of agrochemicals.

Crested Lark Galerida cristata

Resident, breeding

Probably the most common agricultural bird, it can be seen in fields, garrigue and other open areas.

Woodlark Lullula arborea

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

From November to March, small groups can be observed in fields and other open areas with scattered bushes and trees.

Eurasian Skylark Alauda arvensis

Winter visitor

Very common in winter, flocks can be seen in field from November to February. It's one of the most favorite, along with the thrushes, quarry.

Sand Martin Riparia riparia

Passage migrant

The most typical wetland swallow is a regular visitor to Vravrona. It is often seen along with other species, hunting insects above the wetland.

Eurasian Crag Martin Ptyonoprogne rupestris

Accidental

Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica

Summer visitor, breeding

The most numerous hirundine, arrives in March and departs in September. Many pairs nest in building, while significant numbers roost in the reeds during migration.

Common House Martin Delichon urbicum

Summer visitor, breeding

It nests almost exclusivel in towns and villages. Vravrona is very important feeding and mud collecting area.

Red-rumped Swallow Cecropis daurica

Summer visitor, breeding

Less familiar with man, prefers natural areas. In Vravrona, can be also seen in abandoned buildings.

Tawny Pipit Anthus campestris

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

An open area bird, can be found from coastal zones to alpine meadows! Has been recorded during migration in spring and autumn.

Tree Pipit Anthus trivialis

Passage migrant

Found wherever there are large bushes and trees. Is more easily seen in spring than in autumn.

Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis

Winter visitor

The most common pipit, can be found everywhere in winter: From the coast to the cultivated fields and phrygana. Recorded from October to early April.

Red-throated Pipit Anthus cervinus

Passage migrant

Rare visitor, seen always in the cultivations adjacent to Erasinos river.

Water Pipit Anthus spinoletta

Winter visitor

Less common than Meadow Pipit, is usually seen in small groups of 2-3 birds. Recorded from November to March.

Yellow Wagtail Motacilla flava

Passage migrant

Very common during migration, flocks of 30-40 birds can be seen in flooded areas and cultivations, especially in autumn. Many different subspecies have been recorded, most common being M.f.feldegg and M.f.flava.

Citrine Wagtail Motacilla citreola

Accidental

First record for this rare visitor of Attica, a bird seen in Erasinos River, May 2013.

Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinerea

Winter visitor

A common visitor of the banks of Erasinos. Recorded from September to April, even though it is also seen in late July!

White Wagtail Motacilla alba

Winter visitor

Very common in winter, in cultivated areas and the coastal zone. Seen from September to April.

Winter Wren Troglodytes troglodytes

Winter visitor

One of the smallest birds of Europe, has a very loud song that can be heard even in the heart of winter. It is found in densely vegetated areas.

Dunnock Prunella modularis

Winter visitor

A typical bushland bird, always staying hidden. Recorded from October to late March or early April.

Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas galactotes

Summer visitor, breeding

A drastic decline of its population has been noticed, it is now found breeding only in the area close to the springs of Erasinos river.

European Robin Erithacus rubecula

Winter visitor

Abundant in winter, can be seen everywhere. Recorded from late August to early May.

Common Nightingale Luscinia megarhynchos

Summer visitor, breeding

Its song can be heard from dense bushes in spring. It is mainly seen in April. Autumn passage is virtually undetectable.

Black Redstart Phoenicurus ochruros

Winter visitor

A typical rock-loving bird, is usually seen perching on stones, rocks and buildings. Arrives in October and departs in March-early April.

Common Redstart Phoenicurus phoenicurus

Passage migrant.

Not a very common visitor in Vravrona. Seen in woodland and orchards.

Whinchat Saxicola rubetra

Passage migrant

A very common migrant, seen everywhere: cultivations, scrub, inside the wetland, etc.

Common Stonechat Saxicola rubicola

Resident, breeding

A typical scrub bird, is easily seen in the surrounding hills. Many times is also seen inside the wetland and the cultivations.

Isabelline Wheatear Oenanthe isabellina

Passage migrant

Very rare visitor, has been recorded few times so far.

Northern Wheatear Oenanthe oenanthe

Passage migrant

One of the most common autumn migrants. It can be seen everywhere, from scrub to cultivations, even in the margins of the wetland. In spring it is recorded in smaller numbers.

Black-eared Wheatear Oenanthe hispanica

Summer visitor, breeding

A typical rock and scrub-loving bird, in nests in the asjacent hills. Recorded from late March to late August.

Common Rock Thrush Monticola saxatilis

Accidental

First recorded in September 2014.

Blue Rock Thrush Monticola solitarius

Winter visitor

In winter, we can see it in rocky outcrops and steep slopes. Arrives in November and departs in March.

Common Blackbird Turdus merula

Resident, breeding

Breeding Blackbirds are found in well wooded patches. In winter, they can be seen everywhere, as birds from the north join locals.

Fieldfare Turdus pilaris

Winter visitor

Not very common and irregular, its presence varies each year. Prefers orchards and scrub.

Song Thrush Turdus philomelos

Winter visitor

The most common thrush, can be seen in large numbers. Favorite quarry, is recorded from October to March.

Redwing Turdus iliacus

Winter visitor

Rare visitor, not recorded every year.

Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus

Winter visitor

A scarce and irregular winter visitor. Usually seen in orchards, pine woodland and tall maquis.

Cetti's Warbler Cettia cetti

Resident, breeding

Probably the most numerous breeding passerine of the wetland, nesting everywhere.

Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis

Resident, breeding

A species with an unfavourable conservation status in Greece, still nesting in Vravrona. Found in open areas of the wetland and the margins of the cultivated areas.

Savi's Warbler Locustella luscinioides

Passage migrant

Very secretive visitor, with just a handful of records in spring.

Eastern Olivaceous Warbler Iduna pallida

Summer visitor, breeding

A very late visitor, from late April to early August. It nests in large numbers in tamarisks, pines and other trees.

Olive-tree Warbler Hippolais olivetorum

Summer visitor, breeding

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Very rare visitor, hard to see. It nests in olive groves, tall maquis, preffering to remain hidden almost all the time.

Icterine Warbler Hippolais icterina

Passage migrant

Hard to see, even though it's not rare. Recorded from mid April to early May, and August-September. Prefers wooded areas with trees and tall bushes.

Moustached Warbler Acrocephalus melanopogon

Winter visitor

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Fairly common winter visitor, found in reeds, close to water. Recorded from November to April.

Sedge Warbler Acrocephalus schoenobaenus

Passage migrant

Fairly common spring visitor, especially in April. Found near reeds and other wetland plants. In autumn is much less common.

Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustris

Passage migrant

Very hard to see as it prefers the safety of large bushes. Its song is full of mimicry.

Eurasian Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus

Summer visitor, breeding

Very common summer breeder along Erasinos river. Recorded from April to September. During migration can be seen in more "dry" habitats like bushes and trees in cultivations.

Great Reed Warbler Acrocephalus arundinaceus

Summer visitor, breeding

The largest warbler, with a frog-like song! It is found in reeds and large bushes and trees, even outside the wetland margins.

Subalpine Warbler Sylvia cantillans

Passage migrant

A migrant recorded in spring and autumn, usually in scrub in and around the wetland.

Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala

Resident, breeding

Widespread and common, it is found everywhere.

Rüppell's Warbler Sylvia rueppelli

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Sping visitor, has not been recorded nesting yet, even though it could do so, as there are suitable habitats.

Lesser Whitethroat Sylvia curruca

Passage migrant

Albeit common, it is not easily seen as it is not very vocal in spring and its typical call is very similar to that of many other warblers. It frequents dense bushes and brambles.

Common Whitethroat Sylvia communis

Passage migrant

Regural migrant, April is the best month for recording it. Frequents tall maquis and trees.

Garden Warbler Sylvia borin

Passage migrant

A featureless bird, passes unnoticed. Prefers "damp" areas with dense vegetation. May is the best month, while in autumn it can be seen feeding on figs.

Eurasian Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla

Winter visitor

Very common and widespread, from August already passing birds can be seen. Abundant from October to March. Spring migration continues to May.

Yellow-browed Warbler Phylloscopus inornatus

Accidental

A bird was recorded from January to early April 2014.

Eastern Bonelli’s Warbler Phylloscopus orientalis

Migrant

First recorded in March, 2011. A general increase on the observations around Attica has been noticed in the last few years, so more observations are expected.

Wood Warbler Phylloscopus sibilatrix

Passage migrant

Common in spring, scarce in autumn, this Warbler frequents densely vegetated areas. Therefore, it is usually seen in pine stands, orchards and along Erasinos river, in tamarisks and other trees.

Common Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita

Winter visitor

The only wintering Phylloscopus warbler, is very common and widespread. It can be seen everywhere, from September to April.

Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus

Passage migrant

Very common in autumn, very rare in spring. Almost always found in open areas. August and September are the best months, while migration continues till October.

Goldcrest Regulus regulus

Winter visitor

Uncommon and irregular, the Goldcrest frequents only woodland. There are years that it's very common and others that none appears. When present, is seen from late September to late March,

Common Firecrest Regulus ignicapilla

Winter visitor

Regular winter visitor in pine woodland. From October to March it's always seen on the move, looking for insects and small arachnids.

Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata

Summer visitor, breeding

The only flycatcher nesting in the area, and the only common migrant in autumn. Arrives in April, and departs in September-October. Frequents in wooded areas.

Collared Flycatcher Ficedula albicollis

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Like all the other black and white flycatchers, very common spring visitor and rare in autumn. April is the best month to record this species.

European Pied Flycatcher Ficedula hypoleuca

Passage migrant

Very common in spring, much less common in autumn. April is the best month to see it.

Eurasian Blue Tit Cyanistes caeruleus

Winter visitor

Scarce winter visitor. Found close to the wetland, in trees and large bushes.

Great Tit Parus major

Resident, breeding

Common and widespread, found everywhere. Inside the wetland, in the orchards and the bushy hills. More common in places with a lot of trees.

Coal Tit Periparus ater

Winter visitor

Uncommon winter visitor, found in small numbers in pine woodland. Seen from October to March.

Western Rock Nuthatch Sitta neumayer

Extinct

It was included in the past as breeding, however there hasn’t been any observation in the last few years.

Short-toed Treecreeper Certhia brachydactyla

Winter visitor

Typical pine forest dweller, in winter it can be seen in mature trees. Seen from October to March.

Eurasian Penduline Tit Remiz pendulinus

Resident, breeding

A typical wetland tit, its nests are usually hanging from tamarisks. In winter, more birds from the north join the local population.

Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus

Passage migrant

Common but secretive, always seeking refuge in the dense foliage of trees and large bushes. Seen usually from late April to late May, while in autumn is very scarce.

Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Uncommon in spring, abundant and widespread in autumn. Arrives late in spring, usually early May, while in autumn is usually seen in September and October.

Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

The least common shrike, is usually seen in autumn. It frequents in open areas with scattered bushes.

Woodchat Shrike Lanius senator

Summer visitor, breeding

The only nesting shrike, also common during migration. A few pairs nest in the area, in large bushes.

Eurasian Jay Garrulus glandarius

Accidental

A small population has been established in Dedespoti Hill, north of the wetland.

Common Magpie Pica pica

Resident, breeding

The most common corvid in the area. Found everywhere, has benefited from human presence. Preys on small birds’ eggs and chicks.

Hooded Crow Corvus corone

Resident, breeding

A small number, not more than 4-5 birds, in seen all year round. Probably the high population of Magpies, prevents it from increasing its own population.

Northern Raven Corvus corax

Non-breeding visitor

A pair is regularly seen in the area, most probably nesting in an islet of south Evoikos gulf.

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Winter visitor

Flocks of many thousands birds visit the area, because of the olive trees and the cultivations. Most birds have arrived by the end of Novemder, while spring departure begins in February.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Resident, breeding

Widespread and abundant, the House sparrow is one of the most common birds. Found wherever there's human presence.

Spanish Sparrow Passer hispaniolensis

Winter visitor

Groups of 10-20 birds are seen along with House Sparrows in the winter, in fields along Erasinos river. In spring and autumn there’s also a small passage.

Eurasian Tree Sparrow Passer montanus

Resident, breeding

Less common than the House Sparrow, a small number nests in trees in the cultivated areas.

Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs

Winter visitor

The most common finch in winter, large flocks are seen all over Vravrona. Recorded from September to April.

European Serin Serinus serinus

Resident, breeding

In winter, flocks can be seen in cultivations along with other finches. In summer, a small numbers nests in conifers.

European Greenfinch Carduelis chloris

Resident, breeding

Several pairs nest in the area, in winter population is augmented by northern visitors.

European Goldfinch Carduelis carduelis

Resident, breeding

The most common nesting finch, feeding on thistles that are plentiful. In winter, birds from the north join the local population.

Eurasian Siskin Carduelis spinus

Winter visitor

Irregular winter visitor, usually seen every two years in the area. When present, is seen in moderate numbers joining other finches.

Common Linnet Carduelis cannabina

Resident, breeding

In summer, it frequents open, sparsely vegetated areas, while in winter it can be seen in cultivations along with all the other finches.

Hawfinch Coccothraustes coccothraustes

Winter visitor

Irrgular winter visitor, frequents areas with trees, preferring taller branches.

Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella

Accidental

Recorded in the past, there are no recent observations.

Cirl Bunting Emberiza cirlus

Resident, breeding

Scarce resident, found in cultivated areas and the scrubby slopes of nearby hills.

Rock Bunting Emberiza cia

Winter visitor

Regular winter visitor, usually found near the wetland and the cultivations. Seen from October to April.

Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

Very rare migrant, with a handful of records. Prefers scrub.

Cretzschmar's Bunting Emberiza caesia

Passage migrant

79/409 Directive, Annex I

It is seen in the surrounding hills in scrubby areas, both in spring and autumn.

Common Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus

Winter visitor

A typical wetland bunting, recorded every year. Frequents almost always near reeds. Recorded from October to March.

Black-headed Bunting Emberiza melanocephala

Summer visitor, breeding

Very rare breeder, with just a handful of pairs nesting. Frequents vineyards. Threatened by the conversion of agricultural land and the extensive use of agrochemicals.

Corn Bunting Emberiza calandra

Resident, breeding

This bird is a scarce breeder, preferring open areas close to the wetland. It is much more common in winter, where flocks numbering hundreds of birds can be seen in cultivated areas.