Birdwatching Danube Delta. Top 5 birds to spot

1. The great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus)

🪶 Massive and elegant.

With a wingspan up to 3.5 meters, the Dalmatian Pelican is the crown jewel of the Delta. It’s one of the largest freshwater birds in the world — and it’s globally threatened.

Where to spot them: Quiet lakes and remote channels near Chilia Veche, Mila 23, or Letea.

2. White-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)

🪶 The Delta’s apex predator.

This powerful raptor, with its piercing stare and broad wings, is often seen circling silently above forest edges or perched near nesting areas.

When: Autumn and early spring give the best chances, especially near forest zones and lakes.

3. European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)

🪶 Color explosion in motion.

With its vivid blue, green, yellow, and rust feathers, the bee-eater adds tropical flair to the Delta. You’ll often hear their soft calls before spotting them in flight.

Where: Sandy banks and open fields near villages like Letea and Chilia Veche.

4. Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)

🪶 Tiny, fast, and brilliant blue.

These small birds are hard to spot — but unforgettable once you do. Like a flash of turquoise across the water, they’re often seen near quiet, narrow channels.

Pro tip: Early morning boat rides offer the best chance.

5. Pygmy Cormorant (Microcarbo pygmaeus)

🪶 The silent diver.

Less known than its larger cousin, the pygmy cormorant is elegant and shy. It often perches on half-submerged branches, drying its wings in silence.

Where: Shallow lakes and vegetated shores, especially in protected areas.

Want more than a checklist?

We don’t just point at birds — we take you into their world. Our boat safaris are designed to be quiet, respectful, and immersive.

📩 Let’s create your perfect birdwatching trip. Message me and I’ll help you plan a custom Danube Delta adventure.