Northern harrier flies from Türkiye’s Igdir to Arctic Ocean, covering over 7,000km

A remarkable migration journey has captured the attention of researchers and bird enthusiasts alike. A Northern Harrier (Circus cyaneus), equipped with a satellite transmitter, embarked on an epic 170-day migration from Türkiye’s Igdir to the Arctic Ocean, covering a staggering distance of 7,382 kilometers (4349.598 miles).

The journey of this resilient raptor was closely monitored by the KuzeyDoga Association, with permission from the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks.

Researchers at the Aras Bird Research and Education Center, located in Igdir’s Tuzluca district, tagged the Northern Harrier with a satellite transmitter on Feb. 27, 2024.

This research project is part of an ongoing effort to study migratory birds in the region, particularly those that pass through the ecologically significant Aras Valley.

Crossing borders: From Türkiye to Arctic

After being released into its natural habitat, the Northern Harrier began its migration on April 3. It swiftly crossed into Armenia, followed by Georgia, and reached Russia on April 4. Throughout its journey, the bird took breaks to rest and feed, ensuring it had enough energy to continue its long migration.

On April 7, the harrier arrived in Chuvashia, Russia, where it temporarily settled. It then resumed its journey northward on April 19, stopping briefly in agricultural areas near Kirov on April 24.

Reaching the Arctic: A 170-day odyssey

The journey continued with the bird flying through forests, valleys, and farmlands, eventually arriving in the Pechora River region on May 20. Finally, on May 30, the Northern Harrier reached its destination in the Nenets Autonomous District along the Arctic Ocean’s coast.

During its remarkable migration, the Northern Harrier set impressive records. It achieved its highest altitude of 2,854 meters while flying over the Akhalkalaki region in Georgia. Additionally, the bird reached a top speed of 77.4 kilometers per hour during its journey, showcasing its incredible endurance and agility.

Importance of migration research for conservation efforts

The Northern Harrier’s journey provides valuable insights into the migration patterns of raptors. Deniz Eryilmaz, station manager at the Aras Bird Research and Education Center, emphasized the importance of this data.

“The Northern Harrier is a crucial species that relies on the Aras Valley during its long migration. Tracking these birds with satellite technology allows us to gather essential information for conservation efforts,”Eryilmaz said.

Protecting migratory birds: Ensuring their survival

The Northern Harrier’s epic migration from Igdir to the Arctic Ocean highlights the extraordinary capabilities of migratory birds. This journey not only underscores the resilience of the Northern Harrier but also emphasizes the importance of continued research and conservation efforts in understanding and protecting these incredible species.

By studying such remarkable migrations, researchers can better protect the natural habitats and ecosystems that support these journeys, ensuring the survival of species like the Northern Harrier for generations to come.