Bird fauna in Gauja National Park in terms of nature tourism is appreciated both by foreign and local tourists. The largest nesting population of grey wagtail in Latvia is just one example. Download PDF brochure to find out more.
Recommended bird-watching route time – late May, beginning of June.
Bird fauna in Gauja National Park in terms of nature tourism is appreciated both by foreign and local tourists. The largest nesting population of grey wagtail in Latvia is just one example. Although these are just few pairs, in terms of access and concentration it is the safest place in Latvia to watch this species during the nesting period. The forests of slopes with old deciduous trees attract less common species of woodpeckers (White-backed woodpecker, Three-toed woodpecker, Black woodpecker, Middle spotted woodpecker). Relatively often spotted are the elsewhere rare Greenish warbler, Red-breasted flycatcher and locally common Hazel grouse. Ural owl has started nesting in the park, and the smallest owl of Latvia — Pygmy owl — is also seen more often. Significant habitats are the parks and alleys of former manors attracting much more common and thus easily spotted species of birds (woodpeckers, tawny owl).
Worth knowing! Bird-watching is best combined with a respective accommodation option outside of a town. Early morning walks before a rich breakfast are advantageous — making use of the time between sunrise and 8 a.m. A higher priority should be given to accommodation closer located to old parks. The activity is at one’s own risk. Emergency services: 112.
Recommendation! The route can be made individually with prior booking of accommodation and planning of transportation options. In such case, some basic knowledge or a partner with at least amateur-level knowledge in “bird issues” is needed. If you are looking for professional event organisation or maximum number of bird species on your list, hire a professional guide — bird-watcher. In watching the birds, keep the “bird interests” first; thus avoid disturbing the standard activities and places of living of birds.