Ornitho tourism potential of Manavgat county

The purpose of this research is to determine the potantial of ornithotourism and to contribute tourism planning of the areas in Manavgat. Tourism is vital for Manavgat's economy due to it's curtural and natural heritage. Even though the province has many potantials of alternative tourism, sea tourism is the most known of these branches. Ornithology is a widespread discipline that is being excercised around the world which can also be of great use in Manavgat. With the potential of ornitho-variety of Manavgat, tourism can be advanced to another level which will enable the region tourism to be active throughout 4 seasons. The research is based on qualitative assessment. Primary and secondary data sources are included in the following lines. Primary sources are short interviews and field observation. Secondary sources are thesis', articles, papers, reports(both private and govermental reports) and open access internet websites. Consequently, all the data is evaluated. Titreyengöl and Boğazkent are the primary wetlands of Manavgat which are home to rare bird species. Thus far, in Titreyengöl (175) and Boğazkent (136), in total, 311 bird species have been identified in this region and 23 of these species are in danger of extinction. The unique species of this region would attract the majority of bird observers around the world which is a great potential for ornitho-tourism in Manavgat. In conclusion, current sectoral experience, accomodation facilities and bed capacities are to be considered as advantages to develop this sort of tourism without further expenses in Manavgat. With the addition of field potential of ornithotourism to traditional tourism in Manavgat, the activities can be spreaded throughout the year.