Uzbekistan situated between Europe and Asia, has been an important crossroad on the Great Silk Road for centuries. Many of our feathered friends have too, used this strategic crossroads on their air travels. Numerous reserves and national parks make use of this opportunity to observe the various kinds of birds travelling to and from different climate zones.
Ornithological tourism can be most captivating - it is a perfect combination of relaxation with a healthy mix of mental and physical exertion. Uzbekistan's world of birds offers 502 species, half of which is of interest from an ornithological point of view, and 10% indigenous, found only in our parts.
Usually ornithological itineraries include the Karnabchul steppe, the Kizil-Kum desert, the Aidarkul and Tudakul lakes, the Zaamin and Zarafshan reserves, Tokhti-Korach and Kamchik mountain passes, the Mingchinor and Artashsay valleys and the Chimgan mountains.
The feathered world of Uzbekistan is rich in variety. Many nesting birds from many parts of the world are attracted by the mild climate Uzbekistan has to offer. During spring and autumn almost all the birds from the north fly through Uzbekistan when migrating.
People from many different countries have ornithological interests in Uzbekistan. For example, English tourists are mostly interested in the hums short-toed lark and the white-breasted robin while bird-watchers from Switzerland are fascinated by the unusual dancing of the black vultures during their mating-call. Ornithologists from Germany liked the brown deepe and the pugmu kormurand very much and Austrians love photographing pendulum tits in their hanging nests.
All bird-watchers eager enjoying seeing rare species of birds such as the Podoces panderi, Passer simplex and Tersi phone paradisi. Sometimes visitors request individual specialised trips to find specific species of birds.
Lake Aidarkul, extending for 200 kilometres, is the most accessible observation point. Pelicans, swans, gray goose pheasants, gray and red herons, silver mews, sea doves and flamingoes can be found here. An ever-increasing hubbub of bird traffics boasting an abundance and diversity of species impress all who visit this spot. The unforgettable close encounters with the real thing will be engraved in their memory for years to come.