Georgia is, arguably, one of the best bird-watching destinations of Europe. It has over 360 recorded species of bird including three endemics (found only here) - Caucasian Black Grouse; Caucasian Snowcock, Caucasian Chiffchaff (All of western Europe has, but one). This is due to both our incredible landscape diversity and our key position among migratory corridors (once again we find ourselves at a crossroads)

The coast of the Black Sea and our high Caucasian passes are particularly rich in birdlife. As a result Georgia has four vultures and eleven Eagles, Flamingos, Bee-eaters, Rosefinches, Black Redstarts, Wall Creepers and numerous kinds of shrike, warbler, finch only rarely found in the rest of Europe. During migrations pelicans, storks, herons, owls, orioles, cuckoos, swallows, hoopoes, martlets, kingfishers and nightingales can be seen.

It is often forgotten that the common pheasant found across Europe originates from our own Phasianus Colchicus, it is thought they were brought over by Greeks in the bronze age. Yet another export no one seems to remember.

Birding here is ever more popular and some of the best locations are not as remote or difficult to reach as you might think. However you appreciate what a little effort can result in you being able to reach fantastic viewing locations, such as looking straight down on an eagle's nest or living directly below a virtual ecosystem of migrating birdlife.

One of the best locations for birdwatching in Georgia is Vashlovani Protected Areas.