BIRDS OF GURIA

Meet the most interesting birds of Guria — migration routes, seasons, and the best spots to watch them.

In late spring, the layered song filling the Chokhatauri forest is the joint creation of thousands of birds from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

According to BirdLife Georgia research, the Chokhatauri territory holds Important Bird Area (IBA) status. This designation is given to territories that have been identified as critical for bird breeding, wintering, or migration.

The most spectacular species include the European roller (Coracias garrulus) — a blue-orange bird that appears at forest edges; the hoopoe (Upupa epops) — unmistakable with its crown crest; and the bee-eater (Merops apiaster) — flying in groups, catching insects in mid-air.

In winter, Chokhatauri forests provide habitat for many migratory thrushes, fieldfares, and firecrest warblers. The best observation point is the forest edge where open land meets the tree line.

Interesting fact

Twelve bird species recorded in Chokhatauri forests appear on Europe's SPEC 1 list — meaning they are global conservation priorities.

Bird habitat in Chokhatauri forest

BirdLife International – Georgia IBA Directory
Georgian Centre for the Conservation of Wildlife