Turkey's Van cats: The rare swimming felines with a biblical legend
Turkey's eastern Van province is home to a rare and unusual breed of cat. Known as Van cats, these animals are famous for their love of water and striking mismatched eyes. Local legends even claim their origins trace back to Noah's ark, adding to their mystique.
For nearly 30 years, the Turkish government has worked to protect and breed these unique felines. Their efforts have made the region a draw for tourists, including visitors from neighbouring Iran, who often cross the border to see the cats and the stunning Lake Van.
The official breeding and protection programme for Van cats began in the mid-1990s. The Van Municipal Government teamed up with Van Yüzüncü Yıl University to create a dedicated cat house on Akdamar Island, within Lake Van. This facility, known as the Van cat villa, now cares for around 50 of these rare animals.
Unlike typical domestic cats, Van cats are not suited to life as pets. They thrive in large groups and are known for their unusual fondness for swimming in Lake Van, Turkey's largest lake. Their distinctive white coats and heterochromatic eyes—one green, one blue—have made them a symbol of the region. The Van province, located near the Turkey-Iran border, has long been a tourist hotspot. In peaceful times, Iranian travellers, dissidents, and officials frequently visit the area. The combination of Lake Van's natural beauty and the unique Van cats continues to attract visitors from across the region.
The Turkish government's three-decade conservation effort has ensured the survival of the Van cat breed. These animals remain a key part of the region's cultural and natural heritage. Their presence, along with Lake Van's scenic appeal, keeps the area a popular destination for both local and international visitors.
