THESSALONIKI Birdscape: Infopack
THESSALONIKI BIRDSCAPE
INFOPACK
Seeing the City Through Birds
European Solidarity Corps · Art · Urban Biodiversity · Education · Community Action
Art Exhibition: Birds, People and the City
Project host: ESAI EN ROIMain office: Eratosthenous 4–6, Polichni, Thessaloniki, GreeceProject status: Infopack under development
1. Welcome to Thessaloniki Birdscape
Welcome to Thessaloniki Birdscape, a European Solidarity Corps campaign exploring the relationship between birds, people and urban nature through photography, visual arts, education and community action.
Birds live alongside us in parks, gardens, streets, trees and public spaces. Yet their presence often goes unnoticed. They are an essential part of urban ecosystems, and their lives can reveal important aspects of biodiversity, environmental quality and the relationship between human activity and nature.
Through Thessaloniki Birdscape, we want to help people rediscover their city from a different perspective: through the eyes of its birds.
The project brings together young people, volunteers, artists, educators, environmental specialists and local communities to transform observation and knowledge into creative expression, educational resources and meaningful public action.
Our approach connects environmental awareness with artistic experimentation, intercultural cooperation and solidarity. We believe that learning to observe and protect the natural world can also inspire new ways of understanding our communities and our shared responsibility for the places where we live.
2. About ESAI EN ROI
ESAI EN ROI is the hosting organisation and central coordination point for Thessaloniki Birdscape.
The organisation's office is located at:
ESAI EN ROI – Central OfficeEratosthenous 4–6Polichni, Thessaloniki, Greece
The office serves as one of the project's principal meeting and coordination spaces in western Thessaloniki.
Within the project, ESAI EN ROI's supervisors, project managers, social mentors and supporting professionals contribute to the organisation of activities, volunteer support, educational development and dissemination.
The hosting approach emphasises collaboration, learning through practice, creative initiative and collective responsibility. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own ideas and abilities, explore unfamiliar fields and contribute to shared outcomes.
Our working principles
Participation: Everyone should have opportunities to contribute ideas and take meaningful responsibility.
Learning by doing: New knowledge and skills develop through practical activities, experimentation and reflection.
Creativity: Artistic expression is a tool for communicating environmental and social messages.
Solidarity: Cooperation, mutual respect and intercultural exchange are central to our work.
Responsibility: Our activities should encourage respect for wildlife, people and the urban environment.
Community connection: We aim to create links between volunteers, schools, cultural spaces, local residents and environmental initiatives.
3. About Thessaloniki Birdscape
Our vision
We imagine a city in which people pay greater attention to urban wildlife, understand the needs of the birds living around them and make everyday choices that help protect biodiversity.
Thessaloniki Birdscape seeks to make urban nature more visible and accessible through a combination of observation, artistic creation, education and public participation.
Our objectives
The project aims to:
Promote awareness of urban biodiversity and the importance of birds in city ecosystems.
Encourage responsible coexistence between people and urban wildlife.
Develop accessible educational resources on bird protection, prevention and appropriate responses when wildlife needs assistance.
Use photography, visual arts, music, writing and performance to communicate environmental messages.
Develop creative educational activities for schools and young people.
Encourage youth participation, intercultural cooperation and solidarity.
Strengthen participants' creative, educational, communication and project-development competences.
Encourage citizens to appreciate and protect urban green spaces.
Build connections between artists, educators, environmental specialists, young people and local communities.
Our approach: Learn, Create, Share and Act
Thessaloniki Birdscape is conceived as a collaborative learning community.
Participants will share existing knowledge, learn from one another and develop new skills through practical activities. They will contribute according to their interests and abilities, while receiving guidance from the project team, mentors and relevant specialists.
The project values meaningful participation rather than passive observation. Volunteers will be encouraged to propose ideas, explore different creative methods, undertake appropriate responsibilities and reflect on their learning throughout the process.
4. The Art Exhibition: Birds, People and the City
The exhibition Birds, People and the City is a central artistic expression of Thessaloniki Birdscape.
It will explore how birds inhabit, adapt to and interact with the urban environment, and how human activities influence their lives.
Through photography, visual storytelling, text, sound and other artistic forms, the exhibition will invite visitors to reconsider familiar streets, buildings, parks and public spaces as shared habitats.
Possible exhibition themes
Birds and urban landscapesDiscovering birds in parks, neighbourhoods, gardens, rooftops, trees and everyday public spaces.
Coexistence and conflictExploring how architecture, traffic, pollution, domestic animals and human behaviour can create risks for urban birds.
Invisible neighboursDrawing attention to the species that live close to us but are often overlooked.
Care and responsibilityCommunicating practical ways to reduce disturbance, prevent injuries and respond appropriately when a bird needs assistance.
Art as environmental communicationUsing images, music, performance and writing to connect ecological knowledge with personal experience and public awareness.
The role of volunteers
Volunteers may contribute through photography, research, visual documentation, creative writing, illustration, graphic design, exhibition preparation, educational activities and public communication.
The final exhibition format, participating venues and programme will be developed in accordance with the project's progress and available resources.
5. What Will We Create Together?
Thessaloniki Birdscape connects five main areas of work.
A. Bird Protection, Prevention and First-Aid Handbook
One of the project's principal outputs will be an educational handbook on urban bird protection, prevention of common risks and appropriate first responses when a bird appears injured or distressed.
The handbook is intended for schools, young people, residents and members of the public. It will focus on recognising potential problems, avoiding harmful interventions and knowing when to seek qualified assistance.
Proposed content includes:
Common risks faced by birds in urban environments.
Prevention of disturbance and injuries.
Responsible behaviour around nesting sites.
Recognising situations in which a bird may require professional assistance.
Appropriate first responses and essential safety precautions.
What to do, and what not to do, when finding an injured bird or a bird on the ground.
How to contact qualified wildlife rehabilitators, veterinarians or relevant authorities.
Visual instructions, infographics and accessible educational material.
Practical recommendations for schools and members of the public.
The handbook will be developed through research, writing, editing, illustration and educational communication. Wildlife-care content should be reviewed by appropriately qualified ornithological, veterinary or wildlife-rehabilitation professionals before publication.
Important: Volunteers are not expected to diagnose injuries, administer veterinary treatment or handle wildlife without suitable guidance and authorisation. The handbook will prioritise safe, responsible and professionally informed responses.
B. Theatre and Dance-Theatre in Schools
Performing arts can communicate environmental issues in ways that are accessible, memorable and emotionally engaging.
Through theatre, movement and dance-theatre, the project will explore opportunities to introduce students to birds, urban habitats and responsible coexistence with wildlife.
Activities may include creative workshops, movement-based storytelling, short performances and participatory exercises adapted to the age and needs of each group.
C. Educational Projects for Schools
The project will explore educational activities that combine environmental learning with creativity and observation.
Possible activities include:
Observing and documenting birds in schoolyards and nearby green spaces.
Photography and drawing exercises focused on urban biodiversity.
Creative writing inspired by birds and city life.
Discussions about nesting sites, habitats and human impacts.
Developing posters, visual guides and educational materials.
Participatory activities encouraging care for urban nature.
Activities will be adapted to the school context and carried out with appropriate supervision.
D. Public Awareness and Community Action
Thessaloniki Birdscape aims to bring environmental messages beyond the project team and into the wider community.
Public awareness activities may include information stands, educational presentations, visual campaigns, guided observation activities and the distribution of accessible educational materials.
The purpose is to encourage residents to notice urban wildlife, understand common risks and adopt practical behaviours that support birds and their habitats.
E. Manifesto: Music, Text and Flyers
A creative public-awareness manifesto will bring together words, music and visual communication to express the project's values.
Through short texts, messages, flyers and possible musical contributions, participants will explore how art can encourage people to reconsider their relationship with nature.
The manifesto will communicate the project's commitment to biodiversity, responsible coexistence, solidarity and active citizenship.
6. Thessaloniki Birds: Protection and Responsible Action
Birds face many challenges in urban environments. Understanding these risks is an important step towards protecting them.
Common urban risks
Potential risks include:
Collisions with glass windows and other transparent surfaces.
Traffic and other human-made hazards.
Disturbance of nesting birds and dependent chicks.
Loss of trees, vegetation and suitable nesting or feeding areas.
Exposure to litter, fishing line, plastics and other hazardous materials.
Attacks by domestic animals.
Heat, dehydration and extreme weather.
Inappropriate feeding, handling or attempted rescue by untrained people.
How can we help?
Simple, responsible actions can make a difference:
Observe birds from a respectful distance.
Avoid disturbing nests, eggs, chicks and resting birds.
Keep dogs under control where wildlife may be present.
Dispose of waste responsibly and avoid leaving hazardous materials outdoors.
Consider bird-safe measures around windows where appropriate.
Avoid feeding birds unsuitable foods or encouraging dependence on people.
Protect trees and green spaces that provide shelter and food.
Share reliable information and contact qualified professionals when necessary.
What if you find a bird on the ground?
A bird on the ground is not necessarily injured. Some species naturally feed on the ground, and young birds may leave their nests before they can fly well.
If you find a bird that appears injured, stunned or in distress:
Observe from a safe distance and look for visible signs of injury or immediate danger.
Keep people and pets away and minimise noise and disturbance.
Do not offer food or water, attempt to treat injuries or handle the bird unnecessarily.
Contact a qualified wildlife rehabilitator, veterinarian or the relevant local authority for advice.
Follow professional instructions. If handling is advised, ask for guidance on the appropriate method and precautions.
If the bird is in immediate danger, explain the situation clearly when seeking professional advice.
The project will aim to provide verified local contact information in the completed handbook. Emergency procedures and wildlife-care guidance will be checked before publication.
7. How We Work Together
The project follows a practical cycle of learning, creation, sharing and reflection.
Learn: Research urban biodiversity, explore local environments and learn from specialists and fellow participants.
Create: Turn knowledge into photographs, artworks, educational materials, performances and written resources.
Share: Communicate the results through exhibitions, school activities, community events and public-awareness campaigns.
Act: Encourage practical steps that support urban biodiversity and responsible coexistence with wildlife.
Reflect: Evaluate the experience, recognise new skills and consider how the results can be used beyond the project.
The precise division of tasks will develop according to the project's needs, the skills and interests of participants, and the guidance of the team.
8. Project Locations and Meetings
Activities will take place across different parts of Thessaloniki, connecting the project's central coordination space with cultural venues and community settings.
ESAI EN ROI Central Office — West Thessaloniki
Address: Eratosthenous 4–6, Polichni, Thessaloniki, Greece.
The central office is one of the main spaces for coordination, meetings, preparation and collaborative project work.
Cultural Centre of the B Community of the Municipality of Thessaloniki
A potential venue for meetings, cultural activities, educational events or dissemination, depending on the activity and venue arrangements.
Villa Mordoch
A possible additional venue for cultural exploration, documentation, meetings or dissemination, subject to confirmation of suitability and availability.
Green Executive Club — East Thessaloniki
Address: Kanari 113, Thessaloniki, Greece.
An additional project location identified for meetings and activities in the eastern part of the city.
the daily program will be published until 30/10/2026; 7 hours per day.
Accommodation, Social Mentoring and Meals
1. Accommodation Arrangements
Participants will be accommodated in three shared apartments in Thessaloniki, located in the areas of Eptapyrgion, Harilaou and Vafopouleion.
A designated social mentor will live together with the volunteers in each apartment, providing social inclusion support, guidance and assistance with everyday communal living.
The hosting organisation will allocate participants to the apartments according to its accommodation and hosting arrangements. Each participant will be informed of their assigned apartment and will receive relevant photographs and accommodation information for their group before arrival.
Participants are required to respect the accommodation allocation and the hosting region assigned to them. Changing apartments, exchanging places with other participants or moving to another hosting region is not permitted.
These arrangements are necessary to ensure stable hosting groups, continuity of social mentoring and the effective organisation of accommodation and meals.
Participants must confirm their acceptance of the assigned accommodation before arrival by signing the accommodation commitment form. Any exceptional circumstances or serious concerns should be communicated directly to the hosting organisation for appropriate consideration.
2. The Role of Social Mentors
Social mentors live together with the volunteers and support their social inclusion and daily life in Thessaloniki.
Their responsibilities include:
Supporting communication and positive relationships within each apartment.
Helping volunteers integrate into the local community.
Facilitating cooperation and the organisation of household routines.
Coordinating meal arrangements and discussing dietary requirements.
Encouraging mutual respect, participation and shared responsibility.
3. Meals Provided by the Hosts
Breakfast and dinner are provided by the hosts. The hosting arrangements include the provision of these meals for participants during their stay.
Volunteers are expected to support the preparation of breakfast and dinner in cooperation with their assigned social mentor. The practical arrangements, including schedules and the division of preparation tasks, will be discussed and agreed upon within each apartment.
The provision of meals is the responsibility of the hosts; volunteers' participation concerns assistance with preparation and the agreed shared routines, rather than taking responsibility for providing their own meals.
4. Dietary Requirements and Pre-arrival Communication
Approximately one month before arrival, each participant must contact their assigned social mentor via WhatsApp to begin discussing dietary patterns, food preferences, allergies, intolerances and other special dietary needs.
This early communication allows the hosts to plan meals appropriately and discuss any necessary arrangements in advance.
Participants should communicate their requirements clearly and as early as possible. Individual arrangements will be discussed with the social mentor, taking into account the needs of the participant and the practical possibilities of the hosting arrangements.
5. Respect for Accommodation Allocation
The allocation of participants to apartments and hosting regions is organised in advance by the hosting organisation. It is an integral part of the project's accommodation and social mentoring structure.
All participants are expected to:
Respect the apartment and hosting region assigned to them.
Remain in their assigned accommodation throughout their stay.
Refrain from exchanging apartments or regions with other participants.
Follow the agreed arrangements for communal living and meal preparation.
Communicate any serious concerns directly to the hosting organisation.
Changing apartments, exchanging accommodation assignments or moving between hosting regions is not permitted. Any exceptional circumstances must be reported to the hosting organisation and considered through its designated process; participants should not arrange changes independently.
This policy supports equal treatment, responsible planning, stable social mentoring and the wellbeing of all hosting groups.
6. Before Arrival: Participant Checklist
Before travelling to Thessaloniki, each participant must:
Read the accommodation information and review the photographs provided for their assigned group.
Contact their assigned social mentor via WhatsApp approximately one month before arrival.
Communicate dietary requirements, allergies and special needs.
Discuss meal schedules and assistance with breakfast and dinner preparation.
Sign the accommodation commitment confirming acceptance of the assigned apartment and hosting region.
Our shared principle: The hosts provide the meals and accommodation, while participants contribute to a respectful, cooperative and inclusive living environment. Respecting the assigned hosting arrangements helps everyone benefit from a stable and supportive experience.
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