The Gulf of Kalloni is one of the most celebrated birding sites in the eastern Mediterranean. The combination of shallow, sheltered water, working salt pans on the southern shore, wetland edges, and diverse surrounding habitat — olive groves, pine woodland, garrigue — makes the gulf and its surroundings extraordinarily rich for migrating and breeding birds.
The salt pans at the southern end of the gulf (near the village of Kalloni) are the best single spot: flamingos, spoonbills, and a remarkable variety of waders gather here from March to May. The fields and olive groves around Skala Kalloni produce regular sightings of bee-eaters, rollers, Isabelline wheatears, and various warblers during the spring migration. Local guides operate birding tours from bases in Kalloni and Skala Kalloni during the spring season (April–May), when the island draws birdwatchers from across Europe. Contact information is available through the Lesbos Birding Association or local travel agents.