Description

A brand new butterfly tour with an impressive range of interesting & local species! 

We’re excited to offer an opportunity to travel to The Amanos Mountains in the Hatay Province of Turkey to discover the wonderful range of butterflies, flora, and birds that can be found.

The Amanos or‘Nur Dağları’ in Turkish, means “Mountains of Holy Light”. The range is around 100 miles (200 kilometres) in length. It divides the coastal region of Cilicia from Antioch and inland Syria, making a natural border between Asia Minor (Anatolia) in the southeast region and the rest of Southwest Asia. Its highest peak is Bozdağ Dağı. A major pass through the mountains known as the Belen Pass (Syrian Gates) is located near the town of Belen, and another pass known as the Amanic Gates (Bahçe Pass) lies farther north.

We will be exploring the southern section of ‘The Anatolian Diagonal’, a theoretical boundary running across central and eastern Turkey, from the northeastern Mediterranean to the southeastern Black Sea, intersecting the upper Euphrates. Proposed in 1971 by British botanist Peter Hadland Davis, it highlights a striking division in plant distribution. Of 550 species studied, 135 occurred only to the east and 228 only to the west. Though not linked to physical or climatic barriers, this diagonal hosts about 400 unique, endemic plant species.

Rich in flora and fauna, the Amanos Mountains offer an exceptional diversity within a relatively small area, thanks to the variety of habitats and climatic conditions. Compared to other regions in Turkey, this area stands out for its remarkable biodiversity.

Framed by the rugged slopes of the Taurus Mountains and enriched by the life-giving waters of its rivers and wetlands, the surroundings of Osmaniye are a treasure trove of natural beauty. The mountains here rise in graceful layers, clothed in pure and mixed forests that shift from fragrant pines and sturdy oaks to lush, flower-filled clearings. In spring and early summer, these highlands burst into colour with wildflowers and endemic plants, drawing botanists and nature lovers alike.

The wetlands and riverbanks — from the serene Ceyhan River to hidden mountain streams — form thriving ecosystems where dragonflies dart over the water’s surface and orchids bloom in secret corners. This mosaic of habitats supports an impressive butterfly diversity, from the delicate Swallowtails gliding over meadows to the brilliant blues of Polyommatus species shimmering under the sun.

Our exploration will cover a range of habitats, from lakesides and dry scrub to woodlands and alpine meadows. Roughly 183 butterfly species have been recorded throughout the season in this region. With access to a wide range of sites, we expect to record around 125-130 species during our tour, including several highly desirable target species.

The butterflies in this area present a mouthwatering prospect, especially for those more used to the European palette. For fans of the blues and coppers especially, there promises to be a veritable feast for the eyes! A sample of special species includes Syrian Levantine Blue, Bolland’s Blue, Lebanase Silver-line, Anatolian Fiery Copper, Turkish Fiery Copper, Fiery Copper, Anatolian Odd-spot Blue, Little Tiger Blue, Bavius Blue, Taurus Blue, Large Jewel Blue, Ali Bali Blue, Poseidon Blue, Two-tailed Pasha, Southern Swallowtail, Eastern Steppe Festoon, African Ringlet, and many more!

Over the years, we have discovered both new butterfly and plant species in this region. This tour is especially valuable because it will enable us to do more monitoring during a week-long stay with a group of many keen eyes. Thus we can maximise the number of species we encounter, and—most exciting of all—offer the possibility of discovering new species!

Our journey will centre around exploring the butterfly species found near our main tour base, Osmaniye. Known as “the city of castles,” Osmaniye is a charming Mediterranean town where East meets West. Its unique mix of warm coastal climate and cool mountain air creates an ideal habitat for diverse flora and fauna. This natural richness makes Osmaniye a perfect spot for butterfly enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering endless opportunities for discovery and exploration!

We hope to welcome you on what will be a truly memorable tour!