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 reverted to a wild state (feral), forming social herds. They 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. The animals there have adapted to a landscape that shifts constantly between freshwater marshes, lagoons, and salt flats.
A birdwatcher’s paradise
The Delta is most famous for its avian population, hosting over 320 species of birds.
Flamingos: Thousands of Greater Flamingos winter here, turning the lagoons pink.
Rare Raptors: It is a vital hunting ground for the White-tailed Eagle and the Greater Spotted Eagle.
The Dalmatian Pelican: A globally threatened species that finds sanctuary in the delta’s shallow waters.
Mammals and reptiles
Beyond the horses, the dense riverside forests and reedbeds house a variety of elusive mammals:
European Otters: A sign of the water’s high quality, otters are frequently spotted in the quieter canals.
Golden Jackals: One of the few places in Greece where this species maintains a strong population.
Wild Boar and Roe Deer: Often seen moving through the tamarix bushes and marshes.
The aquatic life
The mixing of fresh and salt water creates a rich breeding ground for fish and crustaceans, which supports the entire food chain. The delta is famous for its blue crabs and its role as a nursery for Mediterranean fish species.
