Bird Spotting in Norway 2025
North-Eastern Norway bursts into chirping and twittering during migratory bird breeding season
Best time: May–late August
Norway is a great migratory destination and a true gem for bird lovers, who can find something interesting there year-round. But no other season offers as much as May does. The Northern and North-Eastern parts of the country swarm with unique arctic birds and their chicks. The hightlights include King Eider, Steller's Eider, Siberian Tit, Brünnich's Guillemot, and Siberian Jay. The most distinct hotspots are village Pasvik and Varanger Peninsula that gives shelter to hundreds of White-Billed Divers and thousands of skuas. Herons are also splendid during May and begin their breeding season depending on the insect availability to feed the younglings. However these birds start their autumn migrations fromearly July. For the rest of summer there is another place located not far off the Northern coast – in the Gjesværstappan islands which are famous for the colonies of puffins, razorbills, white-tailed eagles, skuas, kittiwakes, gannets and other birds. All in all, the islands number three million nesting birds. Bird Safari tours operate between June and late August. In general, the birdwatching time in Norway stretches from May to late August.
Practical info
When is the best time to go bird spotting in Norway?
May is the prime season for bird watching in Norway, offering migratory destinations and unique Arctic birds in Northern and North-Eastern parts of the country. Norway is known for offering the best bird watching opportunities year-round, but this seasonal period is especially remarkable. The bird watching time period extends from May to late August.
Where are the best birdwatching locations in Norway?
If you're searching for the best birdwatching spots in Norway, look no further than the Pasvik village and the Varanger Peninsula. These locations offer sanctuary to a myriad of bird species including White-Billed Divers and Skuas. The Gjesværstappan Islands are another great location where puffins, razorbills, white-tailed eagles, skuas, kittiwakes, gannets, and other feathered friends nest and breed. Do take note that Bird Safari Tours are only available between June and late August.
What are some of the unique bird species that can be found in Norway?
The breathtaking and unique bird species of Norway include Arctic birds like King Eider, Steller's Eider, Siberian Tit, Brünnich's Guillemot, Siberian Jay, herons, among others. To enjoy the best sightings of White-Billed Divers and Skuas, visit the Varanger Peninsula and Pasvik village. If you want to observe puffins, razorbills, white-tailed eagles, kittiwakes, gannets, and other birds, the Gjesværstappan islands is the perfect spot for you. The islands are home to three million nesting birds!
How long does the migratory bird breeding season last in Norway?
The migratory bird breeding season in Norway starts in May and runs till late August, which is the ideal time to go bird spotting in Norway. Don't miss the birdwatching action in Northern and North-Eastern parts of the country where you can see herons during breeding season depending on insect availability to feed younglings. However, these birds begin their autumn migrations as early as July.
Are there any guided birdwatching tours available in Norway?
Guided birdwatching tours are available in Norway. Bird Safari tours operate from June to late August, where visitors can watch unique and rare bird species with the help of a knowledgeable guide. Bird lovers ought to explore the Pasvik village, Varanger Peninsula, as well as the Gjesværstappan Islands, known for their colonies of puffins, razorbills, white-tailed eagles, kittiwakes, and gannets. The tours are the best way to learn more about Norway's avian fauna and gain insight into the world of birds.
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