Eber Lake (Eber Gölü)

Eber Lake (Eber Gölü) is a large, shallow freshwater lake on the eastern edge of Afyonkarahisar province, near the town of Bolvadin approximately 60 kilometres east of the city. Together with neighbouring Akşehir Lake to the east, it forms part of an internationally important wetland complex of the inner Aegean region. Eber's shallow, reed-fringed margins and open water surface support large breeding colonies of waterfowl — including herons, egrets, little bitterns, purple herons and various duck species — and the lake is a significant staging and wintering ground for migratory birds during the spring and autumn passage seasons. The extensive reed bed fringing much of the southern and eastern shore is one of the largest in the region. Birdwatchers can view the lake from the shores near Bolvadin town, and a track leads along the northern edge to vantage points over the open water. There are no formal birdwatching facilities, hides or marked trails; observation is informal from the lake edge. Outside the birdwatching context, the lake also attracts some recreational fishing, and the surrounding plain is farmed. Water levels fluctuate seasonally and with longer-term climate patterns. Entry is free. A visit of 1 to 2 hours covers the main shoreline views. The best time for birdwatching is the spring and autumn migration, from March to May and August to October.