The Srebarna Nature Reserve near Silistra

A stop along the way

The routes of migratory birds that prefer to winter in warm lands pass through the territory of Bulgaria. Thanks to this, a huge number of bird species can be observed in the country, and many of them stop in Bulgaria for a long time, build nests and hatch their chicks. Places favoured by birds are usually declared nature reserves. This is what happened with the Srebarna reserve, located next to the village of the same name, 1.8 km from the Danube and 16 km from Silistra. This area was declared protected in 1948: to avoid disturbing the birds, mowing grass was banned here. Later the reserve was included in the list of world natural landmarks.

Many people come here to admire the unique floating islands. The lake located here looks wonderful at any time of year, including in winter, when its mirror-like frozen surface contrasts beautifully with the yellow reeds. And by spring a great many birds arrive here – 223 species in all. In particular, the reserve is a favourite place of Dalmatian pelicans, which hatch their chicks here. This species is endangered, so the pelicans in the reserve are especially protected. The birth of the chicks is usually even reported in the news. The reserve also provides shelter to other species listed in the Red Book.

Today a museum operates on the territory of the reserve. For those who want to watch the birds with their own eyes, special eco-trails have been laid out, leading to convenient observation platforms or cosy gazebos. Video cameras have been installed on the lake, broadcasting scenes from the life of the birds onto screens in real time.

Practical information

• The reserve is conveniently reached from the road connecting the cities of Ruse and Silistra, following the signs.
• The pelican colony is best observed from the hill located in the north-western part of the reserve.
• To get a good look at the birds, it is advisable to bring binoculars.
• In winter the museum is open from 8 to 16 on weekdays, in summer – until 18.
• From the first of April until the end of September, admission to the museum is free on Thursdays. At other times adults pay 2 lv for a visit without guide services, and schoolchildren 1 lv. A guided tour of the museum costs 6 leva.
• On the territory of the reserve there are toilets, sources of drinking water and benches for resting. It is possible to fish on the territory of the reserve, but special rules apply to anglers.

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