Roller tower
The tower is situated on the banks of the Maritsa River near Dimitrovgrad. Elevated to a height of 3.5 meters, it accommodates up to three photographers.
This hide is used exclusively during the spring-summer period. While it has embrasures on both sides, it is best suited for morning photography—optimal shooting conditions occur between 6:00 AM and 10:00–11:00 AM.
The primary species photographed here is the European roller, which nests in the boxes mounted in front of the tower. Highly territorial, these birds actively chase away most other species that land nearby. However, occasional visitors include:
- Hoopoe
- Bee-eater
- Masked shrike
- Levant sparrowhawk
- Hooded crow
- Olive tree warbler
- Tits (great, blue, and long-tailed)
Birds typically land 10–15 meters away, making a 500mm lens on a full-frame camera ideal for portraits, though it may be too long for in-flight shots.
Recommended Lenses:
- Zoom lenses: 200–400mm, 150–600mm (for both in-flight shots and close-up portraits)
- Prime lenses: 300mm, 400mm (teleconverters can be useful)
The hide is equipped with metal bases for mounting photo heads, eliminating the need for tripods. Shooting is done through embrasures with sleeves for lens placement, while observation is possible through a large panoramic glass window.
Below are photographs captured from this hide.