Birdwatching in Slovenia 2025
Grab your binoculars and head to any Slovenian forest—there are a lot of birds just waiting to be discovered!
Best time: March–May
Wherever you stay in Slovenia, you’re always a few meters away from the park or a forest or a natural reservation where you can come across the unique birds of Slovenia and enjoy their singing. Warblers, various species of owls, finches, nightingales, and many others are patiently waiting for in the depths of Slovenian nature.
One of the best places to observe birds in their natural habitat is the Triglav National Park. Here, especially with the help of a guide, you can see northern goshawks, golden eagles, hazel and black geese, and even the very rare citril finch.
Another beautiful spot to go bird watching is the Škocjan Caves Regional Park is famous for its canyons, sink holes, caves, and diverse species of birds. Here you can find Eurasian scops owls, crested tits, short-toed treecreepers, and rock buntings.
Unique birds can be found around Lake Cerknica which is situated south of Ljubljana—ferruginous ducks, corncrakes, little bitterns, and spotted cranes. If you’re really lucky you can even witness the majestic white-tailed eagle and white-winged black tern.
Spring is the time when migrating species return to their summer feeding grounds, and resident species are very active due to breeding, therefore it's a good time to spot some rare birds and observe their courtship rituals.
Practical info
What is the best time of the year for birdwatching in Slovenia?
The optimal time to go birdwatching in Slovenia is during the spring season. It is recommended to visit between March and May to spot a wide variety of bird species. During this time, migrating birds begin to return, and the breeding season is in full swing for resident birds. Slovenia's bird populations include unique species such as multiple owl varieties, various finches, nightingales, and warblers.
Where is the Triglav National Park located in Slovenia, and what kind of birds can be spotted there?
Located in the northwest of Slovenia, Triglav National Park is an excellent location for birdwatching, home to a range of different bird species. Some of the most commonly spotted birds include the golden eagle, the northern goshawk, citril finch, and a variety of geese species. A knowledgable guide can assist visitors in observing these unique birds among the stunning scenery of the Julian Alps.
What unique birds can be found in the Škocjan Caves Regional Park?
The Škocjan Caves Regional Park houses various bird species, and visitors can catch sight of some unique birds such as the crested tit, short-toed treecreeper, rock bunting, and the Eurasian scops owl, which can be heard from a distance. The nature of the park adds to the experience since it offers a serene canyon in which visitors can observe the birds' natural behavior while appreciating the park's beauty.
Which species of birds can be seen around Lake Cerknica, and where is the lake situated in Slovenia?
Lake Cerknica is found in southern Slovenia and is home to a variety of stunning bird species such as spotted cranes, little bitterns, corncrakes, and the ferruginous duck. Visitors may also be fortunate enough to witness sightings of rarer and impressive birds such as the white-winged black tern as well as the magnificent white-tailed eagle. The breathtaking landscape of the lake areas adds to the overall experience of birdwatching.
Why is spring a good time for birdwatching in Slovenia?
The breeding season for birds and the return of migratory bird species makes spring ideal for birdwatching in Slovenia, from March to May. It is also ideal since resident species are more active at this time. The weather is particularly mild during these months, making it easier to explore Slovenia's national parks and other birdwatching locations without expending too much energy.