What type of wildlife are native to Turkey?
Turkey is home to a diverse range of wildlife, thanks to its strategic location between Europe and Asia, and its varied climate and geography. Here are some examples of native wildlife in Turkey:
Mammals
- Anatolian Leopard: Although now considered extinct, historical records show its presence in Turkey.
- Eurasian Brown Bear: Found in northern and eastern Turkey, it is one of the largest carnivores in the country34.
- Gray Wolf: The second-largest carnivore and national animal of Turkey, though its population has declined34.
- Fallow Deer: Native to the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, its numbers have increased due to conservation efforts23.
- Mouflon: A species of wild sheep endemic to Anatolia3.
- Asia Minor Spiny Mouse: An endemic rodent species found in southern Turkey4.
Birds
- Northern Bald Ibis: A critically endangered migratory bird found in Turkey14.
- White-headed Duck: A rare and endangered species1.
- Red-breasted Goose: A migratory bird that passes through Turkey1.
- Dalmatian Pelican: Found in wetlands along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts2.
Reptiles and Amphibians
- Loggerhead Sea Turtle: Nests on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey12.
- **Twenty-three species of reptiles and amphibians are endemic to Turkey14.
Marine Life
- Mediterranean Monk Seal: Critically endangered, with a small population in Turkish waters24.
- Dolphins: Various species can be seen in the seas surrounding Turkey3.
Invertebrates
Turkey's diverse habitats support a wide variety of wildlife, making it a significant location for biodiversity in the region.