Izvora State Hunting Area

The State Hunting Area “Izvora” in the town of Devin is located in the heart of the Central Rhodopes.

Established in 1975 and now part of the South Central State Enterprise, the hunting area manages an area of 9,000 hectares divided into two hunting regions – Izvora and Lyk-Balkan.

The typically mountainous terrain of the area features steep cliffs and majestic rock formations. The elevation ranges from 750 to 1860 meters above sea level. The rich forest and grass vegetation create ideal conditions for various wildlife species.

The hunting area is home to red deer, fallow deer, mouflon, wild goat, roe deer, wild boar, and capercaillie. Predators include bear, wolf, fox, wildcat, otter, marten, pine marten, and badger. Among birds, in addition to the capercaillie, the area hosts hazel grouse, wood pigeon, turtle dove, quail, and more. Daytime birds of prey include the golden eagle, lesser spotted eagle, greater spotted eagle, buzzards, hawks, and kestrels. Nocturnal birds of prey include the eagle owl, long-eared owl, little owl, and others.

The best trophies from Izvora are: wild goat – 115.08 points, wild boar – 131.46 points, mouflon – 198.25 points, red deer – 201.66 points, and roe deer – 108.57 points.

The primary goal of the hunting area is the conservation and growth of the populations of rare game species such as the wild goat, capercaillie, and mouflon. The management of large game is aligned with the biological needs of the animals, aiming to improve the trophy and exterior qualities of the game.

Hunting tourism is one of the main activities of the Izvora State Hunting Area. Thanks to the diversity of game, high-quality hunting facilities, and experienced hunting staff, the area attracts hunting tourists from across Europe and America. In addition to hunting, the area offers alternative forms of tourism, such as fishing in the Devin River, eco-tourism along local nature trails, and visits to natural and ethnographic landmarks.

The “Kozi Rog” Hunting Lodge is located in the southwestern part of the area in the eponymous hunting region. Its relatively high elevation – 1400 meters – and steep mountain roads make it unsuitable for use during the winter months – December, January, and February.

The “Devin” Hunting Lodge is located 2 kilometers west of the town of Devin in the picturesque valley of the Divna River (Devin River). This lodge is suitable for accommodating tourists throughout the year. Its relatively low elevation – 800 meters – and the asphalt road leading to it make it accessible even during the harshest winter months.

Among forestry activities, the hunting area manages 16,200 hectares of state forests, with all activities tailored to the needs of the game being bred. This also includes the development of fishing tourism, eco and rural tourism, as well as organizing photo safaris, which are part of the attractions offered.