For several field seasons OSME has supported the Eymir Ornithological Research Center outside Ankara, Türkiye. It’s connected to the Biology Department of the Science Faculty, Ankara University. An amazing number of students from several universities have participated here to learn the basics on bird conservation, bird ringing and how to carry out field work for a thesis. OSME believes that creating opportunities for these young naturalists, and cheer them on in their early-career moves on the path of conservation, is vital for nature and humans alike in the OSME region.

This is the second of a two-part guest blog featuring the reflections, thoughts and personal experiences from some of these students. Great examples of how sustained funding can build a whole community of committed up-and-coming conservationists.

“My name is Duru, and I had the chance to volunteer at the Eymir Ornithological Center for the first time during the spring season of 2025. I hadn’t had a particular interest in birds before, but being there offered a unique opportunity to get to know them. Although birds are always around us, truly appreciating their beauty requires a special kind of attentiveness. Even though it was my first time volunteering, being surrounded by people who possess that attentiveness taught me a great deal.

After returning from Eymir, I found myself instinctively looking for birds wherever I went. As a biology student, the experience made me consider the possibility of working with birds in the future. I met many wonderful people whose deep knowledge of and love for birds was genuinely inspiring, and they played a big role in sparking my own interest in this field. The activities carried out at Eymir have already led to some of the most prominent and pioneering bird studies in Türkiye—and they continue to do so. In my view, Eymir will remain a vital center for raising awareness about birds throughout the country. I feel truly grateful to have had the chance to be part of these efforts.”

“Hello, I’m Dilan. I’m a biology student, and I first visited the Eymir Bird Ringing Station in the spring of 2024. Before Eymir, my knowledge of birds was very limited: for me, all small birds were sparrows, and all large birds were crows. I’m a biology student. I went to the Eymir Bird Ringing Station for the first time in the spring of 2024. Before Eymir, for me, all small birds were sparrows and all large birds were crows. However, after joining the ringing activities, I quickly realized how much more complex and fascinating the avian world is. Getting into closer contact with these creatures, understanding their physiology, learning from experienced ringers, and asking questions was truly a unique experience that sparked my passion for ornithology and nature conservation.

The enthusiasm I first felt at Eymir is now growing even more. I actively practice bird photography and frequently go birdwatching. In my opinion, bird ringing stations serve not only scientific purposes but also vital social ones. The people I met there and the friendships I formed are truly valuable. I´ve since gone on many birdwatching trips and had countless scientific conversations with the friends I made at Eymir. Life at the station itself is an experience on its own. It significantly develops both your teamwork and your sense of responsibility. Apart from net checks, we also share tasks like cooking and cleaning.

Sometimes we have friends with special diets, so we need to prepare meals that everyone can eat. Other duties, such as setting up nets, must be done as a team. In short, the Eymir Bird Ringing Station is a highly important and beneficial place for both my scientific and personal development, fostering a real commitment to the study and nature conservation of birds.

“A Turning Point at Eymir

I’m Bedirhan. My time at the Eymir Ornithology Research Center was a turning point in my life. During my time there, I formed friendships that I believe will last a lifetime. My initial interest in birds made me curious about this field, and here I have the opportunity to observe and get to know birds more closely. I have learned how important birds are to nature and how diverse the species are. This realization makes me decide that I want to pursue a career in ornithology. Beyond the scientific work, the Center also deepened my personal connection to the natural world. Taking bird photographs has become a fulfilling hobby, allowing me to capture the beauty and behavior of different species and share these moments with a wider audience to promote appreciation for birds.

The Eymir Ornithology Research Center is more than just a place where birds are ringed. It is also a place where we meet new people, learn to work together, build beautiful friendships, gain field experience, and understand the meaning of teamwork. The positive impact of my experience here will last a lifetime.

It taught me to view nature holistically, extending beyond just birds. Now, I want to do more than observe; I want to actively contribute to nature conservation by protecting birds and generating scientific knowledge in this field. Additionally, I find great joy in sharing the knowledge and awareness I gained here with others.”

“I´m Rumeisa, and my time at the Eymir Ornithology Center contributes profoundly to both my academic and personal development. I apply theoretical knowledge to practice by observing birds in their natural habitats in the field, and my technical skills—such as taking field notes, recording behavior, and identifying species—are developing significantly. Seeing scientific methods in action increases my confidence in research design and data interpretation, strengthens my interdisciplinary thinking ability, and matures my competence in fieldwork.

I personally experience how vital migration is for ecosystems; migration ensures the continuity of populations, preserves genetic diversity, and allows species to gain the capacity to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Observing these facts in the field gives me the ability to see ecological processes more holistically.

The social side of Eymir is also an important part of this experience; the dialogues I establish with volunteers, researchers, and local visitors expand my professional network and allow me to learn through different perspectives. Small observations shared during morning teas and short discussions keep my curiosity about nature alive beyond the data and strengthen my

skills in teamwork, patience, and empathy within the group. All these experiences make my perspective on nature more careful, questioning, and compassionate; my researcher identity matures, and my bond with nature deepens.”

“Hello my name is Yasemin. Coming back to Eymir after years felt a bit strange but really nice. As an ODTÜ graduate, that place already had so many memories for me — but this time it was different. I went there after the earthquake, and somehow being surrounded by nature, hearing the birds again, and watching the lake early in the morning felt healing. It reminded me of how much peace simple things can bring. Now I’m working with birds, and Eymir became more than just a familiar spot — it turned into a real learning ground.

At first, I thought bird ringing would be a serious, quiet job, but it’s actually full of funny moments. Some birds are super calm and let you hold them gently, while others bite without hesitation! After a while, you start recognising who’s who — which species is shy, which one is a bit of a troublemaker. The best part has been the people. Everyone at the station is kind, funny, and a little

bit crazy in the best way. We laugh a lot, even when we’re freezing or covered in mud. There’s something really special about being around people who love what they do and care about nature the same way you do.

Eymir feels like home now — full of good memories, great people, and a lot of birds that definitely keep you on your toes.”