Dalmatian pelicans returned to Persina Park near Belene

For the first time since the 1950s, Dalmatian pelicans have returned to Persina Park near Belene (Northern Bulgaria, along the Bulgarian side of the Danube river). Until now, the beautiful birds, which are a protected species, have only nested in the Srebarna Reserve (north-eastern Bulgaria).

Persina Nature Park was established 20 years ago to protect the floodplain forests and wetlands located on the territories of three municipalities - Nikopol, Belene and Svishtov. Six years ago, a project was launched there in order for more Dalmatian pelicans to start nesting in the park. In the beginning, the park had only 2 pairs of Dalmatian pelicans, but now there are more than 50.

The Dalmatian Pelican is a valuable species because it is the most endangered in Europe. It is found only in Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, Romania and some parts of Macedonia.