Protected areas Volcano of the Vultures

The area known as "Volcano of the Vultures" is located in the heart of the Eastern Rhodopes, between dams of "Studen Kladenets" and "Ivaylovgrad". Here, Arda River cuts through the pinnacles of a prehistoric two-crater volcano, forming a gorgeous canyon. Within the volcano crater were created four protected areas designed to conserve and protect rare and endangered species. 

The Natural landmark "Kovan Kaya" encompasses majestic rock formations, talus, open land located on the north bank of the river of Arda. Here, in the volcanic rock niches, nest the unique for Bulgaria and Europe are the White-headed and the Egyptian Vulture (included in the Red Book of Bulgaria). Among the protected species are also Black vulture, Black storkwhite-tail buzzard, blue and versicoloured rock thrust, etc. In the region have found many Thracian sanctuaries and religious complexes. 

Another protected area is "Patronka". It covers one of the most beautiful and inaccessible parts of the valley of the Arda River, immediately before its flow to the Ivaylovgrad dam. Here are preserved unique oak forests and many rare and endangered plant species. The area is home to over 70 species of birds, including the black kite and honey buzzard (also included in the Red Book of Bulgaria).