This is a beautiful forest which has been protected since 1980. It includes two strict protection zones: 72 900 hectares and a peripheral zone of 357 100 hectares.
The climate is sub-Mediterranean, often affected by northern winds and altitude. The area is house to 36 of the 38 species of birds of prey in Europe, including many rare species such as the imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca) and the lesser spotted eagle (Aquila pomarina). It is one of the unique regions of Europe in which many different kinds of birds of prey co-exist. Here you will find three of the four different types of vultures in Europe (Black vulture, Griffon, Egyptian vulture). Of all the species, the Black vulture (Aegypius monachus) stands out. Dadia park is the only breeding colony of Black vulture in Greece and the Balkans and one of the last in Europe. It includes 90-100 Black vultures, including 20 - 22 breeding couples.
