Antikythira Bird Observatory

Antikythira Bird Observatory (ABO) is the only bird observatory in Greece, located on the remote island of Antikythira in the Aegean Sea. Established in 2000 and run by the Hellenic Ornithological Society (HOS), it serves as a critical research station for studying bird migration and conservation in the Mediterranean.

History

Ornithological research on Antikythira began in 1997 when the Hellenic Ornithological Society started fieldwork on the island. The first organized ringing expedition took place in spring 1998. The formal establishment of the Antikythira Bird Observatory came three years later in 2000. The facility was founded by the A.G. Leventis Foundation, supporting its mission of bird research and conservation.

About the Observatory

The ABO operates as a research and monitoring station focused on bird migration, conservation, and the study of local bird populations. It conducts ringing activities during spring and autumn migration periods, when millions of birds cross the Mediterranean on their seasonal journeys.

Location & getting there

Antikythira is a small island in the Aegean Sea between mainland Greece and Crete, positioned on a major migration route for European and African birds. The island's remote location and minimal light pollution make it ideal for observing migratory bird behavior. The observatory also operates on the two adjacent islets of Pouri and Lagouvardos. Access is by ferry from nearby ports.

Visiting Antikythira Bird Observatory

As a working research station, the observatory has limited public access and operates primarily during migration seasons (spring and autumn). Research activities take priority, but interested visitors should contact the Hellenic Ornithological Society for information about educational visits or volunteer participation opportunities. The HOS leads birdwatching expeditions and ornithological education programs throughout Greece.

See your named star from here

While Antikythira is known for birds, the clear island skies also offer excellent stargazing. Telescopes or binoculars directed at celestial coordinates can locate any visible star in the night sky. Explore our star-naming packages and our star catalogue.