Canonical URL: https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/ # Exploring the Amazing Birds of the Danube Delta in Photos Published on February 27, 2023 [![A Purple Heron With A Catch One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-purple-heron-with-a-catch-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday-1024x683.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-purple-heron-with-a-catch-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) Written by [David Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/guides/david/) with images contributed by [Tim Munsey](http://www.wildphotolife.co.uk/). The Danube Delta is a haven supporting life. Home to over 300 species of birds, the area is among the best places in Europe for [bird photography](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/bird-photography/). For those who’re an experienced bird photographer or a keen amateur seeking an encounter with nature’s beauty, the Danube Delta is a fantastic place to capture images of some of the most notable bird species in the world. ![A Common Kingfisher In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-common-kingfisher-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) The birds of the Danube Delta range from the colourful [bee-eaters](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/european-bee-eater/) & eagles soaring high above the wetlands to [imposing pelicans](https://natureslens.co.uk/for/pelicans/) fishing for prey; the region provides a beautiful backdrop for the birds of the Danube Delta. Interestingly, from the village of Mila 23, which is the centre of the triangle formed by the three arms of the Danube, the only way around is by boat, as within the Delta there are no cars. ![A Female Common Cuckoo In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-female-common-cuckoo-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) So what kind of birds can you expect to see in the distinctive Danube Delta? The area is home to many species of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, swans, & cormorants. But it is also rich in raptors, like the [common buzzard](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-buzzard/), lesser spotted eagle, & the fine [white-tailed eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/); there are also many warblers. ## Raptor Species Found in the Danube Delta The most common raptor species in the Danube Delta is the [white-tailed eagle](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/), which can be seen soaring above the wetlands in search of food. These large birds of prey typically stay close to the Delta’s main rivers but can also be spotted in the estuaries, lagoons, & canals. ![A White Tailed Eagle In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-white-tailed-eagle-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) Other raptors that inhabit the region include the [Red Kite](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/red-kite/), [Marsh Harrier](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/marsh-harrier/), Common Kestrel, Eurasian Hobby, [Northern Goshawk](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/northern-goshawk/), & Buzzard. These fine creatures help to create a unique & vibrant ecosystem within the Danube Delta. ## Egret Species Found in the Danube Delta The Danube Delta hosts several species of egrets, each with distinctive features. [Great egrets](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-egret/) are the largest, measuring up to 41 inches in length & sporting a snow-white plumage. With their long neck & slender black bill, they make a striking sight perched atop the reeds along the riverbanks. The [little egret](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/little-egret/) is also quite striking, exhibiting a greyish-blue hue on its coat & white crest atop its head. [Cattle egrets](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/hungary/) are the smallest of the bunch, with their cream & brown colouration, stocky figure, & slightly curved bill. ![An Egret Comes In To Land One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/an-egret-comes-in-to-land-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) These three species of egrets exhibit different behaviours & habits, yet they all make their home in the Danube Delta – a testament to the region’s biodiversity. ## Heron Species Found in the Danube Delta The [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/) (Ardea cinerea) is one of the most commonly seen species in the Danube Delta. They can often be found near lakes, rivers & marshes, standing still in shallow water, looking for their next meal. In addition to the Grey Heron, this area is also home to the [Purple Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-species/) (Ardea purpurea). While difficult to distinguish from the [Grey Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/grey-heron/) at first glance, Purple Herons tend to be larger, have darker plumage, & a wider wingspan. ![A Purple Heron Wades In The Delta One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-purple-heron-wades-in-the-delta-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) ![A Purple Heron In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-purple-heron-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) The [Black-crowned Night Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-species/) (Nycticorax nycticorax) is also a frequent visitor to the Danube Delta. Usually found near wetlands & estuaries, this mysterious bird is most active during the night when they visit open fields & pastures looking for prey. During the day, they are more secretive & remain hidden in dense vegetation. ![A Squacco Heron In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-squacco-heron-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) The [Squacco Heron](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-species/) (Ardeola ralloides) is a small species of heron widely distributed across [Asia](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/asia/), [Europe](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/europe/), & [Africa](https://natureslens.co.uk/discover/africa/). They inhabit freshwater marshes, wet meadows & even rice paddies, but the Danube Delta is particularly significant for their population. It’s estimated that several thousand of these herons can be found in the area during the spring & summer months, & they often form large colonies of nesting grounds grouped along the riverbanks. ![A Squacco Heron Takes Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-squacco-heron-takes-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) ## What makes the Squacco Herons of the Danube Delta unique? The region is a favourable habitat for many heron species, but one stands out as a rather special bird in the Danube Delta. This species typically breeds earlier in the year than their counterparts, resulting in an overlap with the influx of migratory birds. This means that the Squacco Herons can reap the rewards of a wealth of food & resources made available by their cohabitants. Furthermore, because of the wide range, they can stay in the Delta year-round, meaning they make the most of their habitat. ![A Posing Squacco Heron One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-posing-squacco-heron-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) ## Other birds of the Danube Delta We have already mentioned above the imposing [White-tailed Sea Eagles](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/white-tailed-eagle/), but the region is also home to more sedentary species like the [Common Kingfisher](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/common-kingfisher/), Cormorants, [Glossy Ibis](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/glossy-ibis/), Terns, Lapwings, Moorhens, Eurasian Coots, Swans & more. ![A Pair Of White Pelicans One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-pair-of-white-pelicans-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) One of the most striking birds in the region is the [Great White Pelican](https://natureslens.co.uk/photograph/great-white-pelican/); these large & impressive birds can often be seen soaring effortlessly through the skies above the delta, reaching a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters. Other large birds in the area are the Black Storks, which can be identified by their large wingspans & distinctive black & white colouration. ![A Male Common Cuckoo In Flight One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-male-common-cuckoo-in-flight-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) Smaller birds, such as warblers, finches, & wagtails, also make their home in the Delta. While they may not be as easily spotted as the larger birds, they provide an essential part of the local ecosystem, helping to keep the insect population in check. The reed warbler, in particular, is a common sight in the marshes & wetlands of the delta, often flitting about among the reeds & plants. ![A Perched Bee Eater One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-perched-bee-eater-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) ![A Pair Of Bee Eaters Perform A Food Pass One Of The Species That Features On The Natureslens Birds Of The Danube Delta Photography Holiday](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/a-pair-of-bee-eaters-perform-a-food-pass-one-of-the-species-that-features-on-the-natureslens-birds-of-the-danube-delta-photography-holiday.jpg) ## Which Photography Holidays Does Natureslens Schedule to the Danube Delta? NaturesLens schedules at least one photography tour of the [Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/specific-location/danube-delta/) Biosphere Reserve every year; each tour is designed to allow photographers of all levels to capture as many species of the [birds of the Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/danube-delta/) as we can. Our Danube Delta holidays are generally conducted during Spring when the birds are most active. Our photography holidays allow photographers to visit the Danube Delta & capture strong images of the [birdlife](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/danube-delta/) as they interact with each other, fish for prey & soar in the air. - NaturesLens wildlife photography holidays are structured around photographic opportunity — every schedule decision is made around light, behaviour, & access. - Small groups of 4–8 photographers ensure unhurried positions & individual guidance. - Single occupancy accommodation is included as standard across the majority of our trips. ## Share this post - - - - [![A Walking Red Eyed Tree Frog Photographed In Costa Rica In November 2025](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/A-walking-Red-eyed-Tree-Frog-photographed-in-Costa-Rica-in-November-2025-300x225.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/2026/01/20/costa-rica-photography-tours/) ### [Costa Rica Photography Tours – Small Group Wildlife Focused Travel](https://natureslens.co.uk/2026/01/20/costa-rica-photography-tours/) January 20, 2026 Why our Costa Rica photography tours deliver consistent wildlife opportunities across rainforest, wetlands, cloud forest, & coast. Small groups, flexible… In this article 1. [Raptor Species Found in the Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#raptor-species-found-in-the-danube-delta) 1. [Egret Species Found in the Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#egret-species-found-in-the-danube-delta) 1. [Heron Species Found in the Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#heron-species-found-in-the-danube-delta) 1. [What makes the Squacco Herons of the Danube Delta unique?](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#what-makes-the-squacco-herons-of-the-danube-delta-unique) 1. [Other birds of the Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#other-birds-of-the-danube-delta) 1. [Which Photography Holidays Does Natureslens Schedule to the Danube Delta?](https://natureslens.co.uk/2023/02/27/birds-of-the-danube-delta/#which-photography-holidays does-natureslens-schedule-to-the-danube-delta) ### Author DM [David Miles](https://natureslens.co.uk/guides/david/) shares practical field notes, trip updates and wildlife photography advice from the NaturesLens programme. [![Birds Of The Danube Delta](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/A-Squacco-Heron-takes-flight-typical-of-the-kind-of-image-you-will-capture-during-the-Danube-Delta-Bird-Photography-trip-768x512.jpg)](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/danube-delta/) Related photography holiday ### Birds of the Danube Delta Continue from the article into the linked NaturesLens holiday details, dates and availability. [View Trip](https://natureslens.co.uk/photography-holiday/danube-delta/) ### Related articles [![Macro Photography In Bulgaria](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Apollo-Butterfly-On-Purple-Thistle-Flower-1-one-of-the-subjects-on-our-Bulgarian-Butterfly-Macro-Photography-Tour-150x150.jpg) **Macro Photography in Bulgaria**](https://natureslens.co.uk/2026/02/20/macro-photography-in-bulgaria/) [![Dalmatian Pelican Photography – Winter Small Group Photography In Greece](https://natureslens.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/a-trio-of-the-dalmatian-pelicans-of-greece-drifting-on-the-waters-of-lake-kerkini-150x150.jpg) **Dalmatian Pelican Photography – Winter Small Group Photography in Greece**](https://natureslens.co.uk/2026/01/27/dalmatian-pelican-photography-in-winter/) ### Field notes by email New articles, trip reports and wildlife photography holiday announcements from NaturesLens. [Join The List](https://natureslens.co.uk/newsletter/)