Gelingüllü Dam

Gelingüllü Dam is an earth-fill reservoir built between 1986 and 1994 on the Kanak Stream within the boundaries of Esenli village, part of Yozgat's central district. With a body height of 54 meters and a normal-level surface area of 23.20 square kilometers, the dam was constructed primarily for irrigation and today waters roughly 20,474 hectares of surrounding farmland. In recent years, however, it has become known for something else entirely: designated a wetland of local importance, the lake has turned into a magnet for migratory birds. Flamingos were first spotted here in 2018, and since 2021 they have returned every spring in large, striking flocks, joined by white pelicans, Mediterranean gulls and cranes — 24 bird species have been recorded in total. During spring and especially around public holidays, nature photographers and birdwatchers travel to Esenli village to catch the flamingos' graceful movements on the water and the colorful patterns they form when taking flight. Reachable in about 30-35 minutes from central Yozgat, the dam offers a tranquil landscape of open water framed by green hills, with opportunities for picnicking, sunset watching and casual fishing along the shore. Visitors can also explore the traditional character of Esenli village while in the area.