Autumn Birding at Lake Kerkini – Cranes, Eagles, and a Gray-headed Woodpecker

A flock of Common Cranes passed low and close overhead, calling loudly — the highlight of the day. Additional groups were seen and heard in the distance, indicating steady autumn migration through the valley.

Raptors included a Great Spotted Eagle soaring briefly over the eastern embankment, a Goshawk being chased by a Common Kestrel, and a Marsh Harrier hunting above the reedbeds.

We couldn’t locate the Lesser White-fronted Geese, which are usually present at this time of year, as they were likely feeding farther away from the embankment.

One of the best moments was excellent views of a Gray-headed Woodpecker, feeding on tree trunks close to the path and showing beautifully in the morning light. Several Water Buffaloes were grazing peacefully next to the water, adding to the calm and characteristic atmosphere of the area. Two Coypus were also seen feeding quietly along the bank.

Passerine activity was light, with a few Robins, Chiffchaffs, and various finches around the reed edges and ditches. Overall, it was a calm and rewarding autumn visit to Kerkini, with a good mix of species, fine weather, and several memorable encounters.

We visited the eastern embankment of Lake Kerkini in late morning, under mild and partly sunny conditions. The lake was calm, with excellent visibility across the open water and reedbeds.

Large numbers of waterfowl were present, dominated by Teal, Wigeons, Mallards, Pintails, and Greylag Geese. Smaller groups of Gadwall and Pochard were also noted. Great and Little Egrets and several Grey Herons were feeding actively along the shallow margins, while Great Crested Grebes moved steadily across the open lake. A few Little Grebes were observed at the small ponds near the end of the embankment, diving frequently and feeding close to the reeds.

Several groups of Greater Flamingos were scattered across the lake. A young individual, however, was alone near the embankment, allowing close observation. It carried a plastic leg ring, suggesting it had been ringed elsewhere, possibly at a Mediterranean breeding site.

Species Summary

Waterfowl: Greylag Goose, Garganey, Shoveler, Gadwall, Wigeon, Teal, Pochard
Waders & Waterbirds: Great Egret, Little Egret, Grey Heron, Great Crested and Little Grebes, Coot
Raptors: Great Spotted Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Goshawk (chased by Common Kestrel)
Others: Common Crane, Gray-headed Woodpecker (excellent views), Coypus, Kingfisher, wren Robin, Chiffchaff, Cetti’s Warbler

More about Lake Kerkini National Park:

https://www.aegeanbirding.gr/lake-kerkini-national-park