Strymon River
The Strymon River
The Strymon River is one of the most significant rivers in Northern Greece, flowing through the Serres region. Originating from Bulgaria's Vitosha Mountain, the river traverses about 400 kilometers before emptying into the Aegean Sea near Amphipolis. The Strymon shapes the fertile plains of Serres, providing vital water resources for agriculture. Along its course, the river supports diverse ecosystems, including wetlands that host rich birdlife, especially around Lake Kerkini, where it contributes to the region's high biodiversity. The Strymon River has historically served as a critical natural boundary and resource, contributing significantly to the development of local communities and ecosystems.
Important endemic species include:
Golden Eagle (Aquila heliaca): Rare predator that can be found in mountainous areas near Strymons. Lesser Gull (Chlidonias hybridus): Often found in the wetlands near the river. Strymonas is also home to numerous migratory species that visit the area at different times of the year.
The Strymonas River attracts a wide variety of migratory birds.
Flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus): They are mainly seen during the autumn and spring season. Egret (Egretta garzetta): Often migrates to the area from early spring to late summer. Stork (Ciconia ciconia): They arrive in the area in spring to nest and stay until the end of summer. Cormorants (Phalacrocorax carbo): They spend the winter in the area before migrating north.
In the area of the river Strymonas, in addition to birds, one can find a variety of animals:
Otter (Lutra lutra): One of the most characteristic mammals of the river, often found on the banks. Wild Boar (Sus scrofa): Wanders in the woods near the river. Wolf (Canis lupus): Rare, but found in the mountainous areas around Strymonas. Deer (Cervus elaphus): Found mainly in the forested areas. Amphibians and Reptiles: Lizards, frogs and turtles live in the wetlands near the river. These animals take advantage of the wealth of natural resources that Strymonas offers, living in harmony with their environment.
The river crosses several areas
The river Strymonas crosses several areas of the Prefecture of Serres, offering important water resources and contributing to the creation of fertile soils. Some of the main areas it leaks include: Plain of Serres - The river passes through the fertile plain of Serres, where agriculture is developed. Lake Kerkini - Feeds the artificial lake, which is an important wetland. Amphipolis - At its mouth, near the historic city of Amphipolis, it ends in the Aegean Sea. These areas benefit from both farming and tourism because of the river.
Otter (Lutra lutra)
The otter is a semi-aquatic mammal, known for its agility and adaptability to wet environments. It has a long, flexible body, short legs with webbing between the toes, and thick fur that protects it from the cold. It lives mainly in clear rivers, lakes and wetlands, such as the Strymonas River. The otter feeds on fish, amphibians and small mammals. Although once threatened, its populations have recovered in many areas due to protective measures.
