05.06.2026 12:10
The challenging life struggle of pearl mullets, which live only in Lake Van and migrate to freshwater due to their breeding season, turned into a visual feast as they jump against the current. The moments when the fish defy gravity and seagulls hunt for fish at the Erciş Pearl Mullet Nature Park attract great interest from visitors and photography enthusiasts from all over Turkey.
The challenging life struggle of the Van Fish (pearl mullet), which lives only in Lake Van and migrates to freshwater due to its breeding season, continues at full speed against the current. The moments when the fish defy gravity by leaping into the air and the hunting efforts of the seagulls that feed on them offer a visual feast for visitors and photography enthusiasts coming from all over Turkey.
WILL CONTINUE UNTIL JULY 5
The breeding journey of the pearl mullets, which emerge from the salty and soda waters of Lake Van and move towards streams to sustain their species, continues between April 15 and July 15. Among the points where this unique natural event is most clearly and magnificently observed in the world is the Pearl Mullet Nature Park in the Erciş district of Van.
Thousands of people flocking to the park watch with admiration the moments when the fish leap upwards against the current and the hunting efforts of the seagulls covering the sky.
VISITOR INFLUX FROM ALL OVER TURKEY
This migration wave, which makes a huge contribution to regional tourism, has become a focal point for domestic and foreign tourists. Turan Mercan, who came to watch the migration with his family, stated that the scenery was magnificent and expressed his happiness, saying, "Many people from many provinces of Turkey, nearby districts, and our region are here. The pearl mullet contributes significantly to our region's tourism."
"I WANT EVERYONE TO COME AND SEE"
Meral Kızıldere, who came from Bursa to witness this sight for the first time, could not hide her admiration, saying, "It's a wonderful place. I saw the pearl mullet migration for the first time. The fish leap beautifully, and the seagulls hunt them. I really liked it. It's a natural wonder. I want everyone to come and see." Vefa Kaya, who said they came from Ağrı out of curiosity, stated that they visited the region after watching videos online and that the scenery they encountered was much more beautiful than described. This visual feast, one of nature's most challenging and beautiful migration stories, will continue to host visitors until mid-July.