Nika Paposhvili

Nika Paposhvili is an independent birdwatching guide in Georgia. He offers flexible trips to the mountains around Kazbegi, the semi-desert landscapes of Vashlovani and the highland lakes of Javakheti, where he spends much of his field season. Each area offers a different setting for birding, from Caucasus mountain species to dry-country birds and seasonal waterbirds.

Nika usually recommends two or three days for each destination and can combine them into longer journeys. Routes are adapted to the season, the group's interests and particular target birds. He guides individuals and small groups, with larger groups possible by prior arrangement. Dedicated bird-photography trips can also be planned around specific locations, timing and photographic priorities.

Nika holds a PhD in Ecology and founded Garieli, an environmental organisation that he directs. His research and conservation work in Georgia centres particularly on Velvet Scoter and its protection at Lake Tabatskuri. On guided trips, he draws on this fieldwork to explain the birds, their habitats and the conservation challenges they face.