Butrint is the most visited site in Albania, due to the presence of one of the most interesting archaeological parks in Europe. However, the area of Butrint represents one of the richest environments in Albania in terms of biodiversity. On a small surface of land is scattered a high number of different natural habitats and landscapes, holding a wide diversity of species, making the area highly attractive not only for cultural tourism but also for eco-tourism.
Birds are one of the most interesting and diverse groups of fauna in this area. In Butrint, around 250 bird species. The site is both interesting for water birds and passerines.
Species to be highlighted are White Stork (Ciconia ciconia), Glossy Ibis (Plegadis falcinellus), Caspian Tern (Sterna caspia), Cattle Egret (Bubulcus ibis), Golden Oriol (Oriolus oriolus), Black Headed Bunting (Emberiza melanocephala), Olive-tree Warbler (Hippolais olivetorum) etc.
Butrint National Park, is recognized as the richest site in Albania as regards the diversity of reptiles where on a relatively small surface are found over half of the reptile species that occur in the whole country. Here it is easy to see the pond terrapins such as the European Pond Terrapin (Emys orbicularis) and Neck-striped Terrapin (Mauremis rivulata). In addition, it is almost the only area in Albania where we can see the Marginated Tortoise (Testudo marginata). Moreover, the area offers great opportunities for seeing a good number of lizards including here the Balkan Wall Lizard (Podarcis tauricus), the Erhard’s Wall Lizard (Podarcis erhardi), the European Glass Lizard (Pseudopus apodus) etc. Furthermore, the area offers excellent opportunities for seeing a high number of snakes including here: the Sand Boa (Eryx jaculus), Leopard Snake (Zamenis situla), Four-lined Snake (Elaphe quatrolineata), etc. As regards amphibians, apart from other species in the area, the rare Greek Water Frog (Pelophylac epiroticus).
As regards mammals, the area is well-known for the presence of the European Otter (Lutra lutra) and the Golden Jackal (Canis aureus), and of course, other species are present.