The footage offers a glimpse into the raw, authentic beauty of one of Greece’s most vital wetland ecosystems. Credit: e-evros.gr
A rare and breathtaking moment of wild horses in action was recently captured in the Evros Delta, where the river, swollen by heavy seasonal rains, became the stage for an extraordinary natural performance.
In a video captured by a bystander and published by local news site e-evros.gr, a large herd of wild horses is seen navigating the turbulent waters. Defying the powerful currents with remarkable strength and resilience, the animals demonstrate the untamed spirit of the region. This striking footage offers a glimpse into the raw, authentic beauty of one of Greece’s most vital wetland ecosystems.
Wild horses of Evros Delta
The horses seen in the video are descendants of animals released by local farmers decades ago. Over generations, they have become feral, forming social herds, and are uniquely adapted to the wetland.
They are known for their ability to swim between the delta’s islets to find food. They endure extreme weather, from freezing Balkan winters to the humid heat of the Greek summer.
Wildlife of the Evros Delta
The Evros Delta is one of Europe’s most significant wetlands, acting as a “crossroad” between Europe and Asia. Here, animals have adapted to a landscape that constantly shifts among freshwater marshes, lagoons, and salt flats, creating a dynamic and diverse ecosystem.
The delta is especially renowned for its birdlife, hosting over 320 species. Thousands of Greater Flamingos winter here, turning the lagoons a vivid pink, while rare raptors such as the White-tailed Eagle and Greater Spotted Eagle find vital hunting grounds within the wetlands. The globally threatened Dalmatian Pelican also finds sanctuary in the delta’s shallow waters, highlighting the area’s importance for conservation.
Mammals and reptiles of the Evros Delta
Beyond birds, the dense riverside forests and reedbeds provide shelter for a variety of mammals. European otters, a reliable indicator of the water’s high quality, are often spotted in quieter canals.
Golden jackals maintain one of their strongest populations in Greece within this region, while wild boars and roe deer move stealthily through tamarix bushes and marshes.
Aquatic life
The delta’s rich mix of fresh and saltwater supports an equally diverse aquatic ecosystem. Fish and crustaceans thrive here, creating a robust food chain. The area is famous for its blue crabs and its role as a nursery for Mediterranean fish species, sustaining both local wildlife and the broader ecological balance.