The Sound of Forests: Istanbul’s Natural Symphony

Istanbul forests not only meet the city's need for green space but also host rich biological diversity. Istanbul forests provide important habitats that meet the sheltering, feeding, and breeding needs of birds. Within the scope of the “Ecosystem Services for Social Cohesion in the Istanbul Regional Directorate of Forestry Project” carried out under the European Union's Climate Change Adaptation Grant Programme, important steps are being developed for the protection and sustainability of this unique ecosystem.

Located on migration routes, Istanbul forests constitute a critical habitat for resident and migratory birds. In regions like Belgrad Forest, Çatalca, and Şile, resident species such as magpies, sparrows, and woodpeckers, as well as turtle doves and migratory songbirds, are frequently seen. In the project, vulnerable areas have been identified by evaluating the habitat provision quality considering the biological diversity data of Istanbul forests.

The project encourages the participation of public institutions and local governments to ensure the sustainability of these valuable habitats and adopts a holistic approach. Interventions in these areas will be implemented in cooperation with the General Directorate of Forestry, municipalities, and other relevant institutions and organizations. The aim of these studies is to protect, improve, and ensure the sustainable management of ecosystem services that support bird presence. These studies are of great importance not only for ensuring the continuity of existing ecosystem services but also for climate change adaptation and biodiversity conservation. Protecting these ecosystem services provided by Istanbul forests is one of the cornerstones of leaving a vital heritage for future generations.