Best time to travel to Switzerland

Birdwatching in Switzerland

Hundreds species of migrating and resident birds breed in Switzerland

Best time: April–August

Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
Birdwatching
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Switzerland's varied landscape makes it an excellent birding destination. It has a large number of lakes with aquatic birds, wetlands with herons and storks, and of course the Swiss Alps. The Cuckoo is probably the most well-known Swiss bird and was once abundant all over the country. Altogether, about 200 different species of birds breed in Switzerland. The best time to see them is during spring​ and summer.

Practical info

When is the best time to visit Switzerland for birdwatching?

To get the most out of birdwatching in Switzerland, visit between April and August. This is the breeding season for both resident and migratory birds, and most of them will be active. An extended stay in Switzerland to observe the fall foliage could provide an even more breathtaking experience for birdwatchers. Show more

Where are the best places to go birdwatching in Switzerland besides the Alps?

Switzerland is brimming with many birdwatching opportunities outside of the iconic Alps. Places like Bernese Oberland, Emmental region, Entlebuch UNESCO Biosphere, Rhone delta, and Lake Geneva host hundreds of bird species, from aquatic to land birds, with varying habitats for each species. Show more

What is the most common bird species found in Switzerland?

There are over 200 different bird species in Switzerland. The Cuckoo is the most commonly seen among them, with its recognizable 'cuckoo' call that echoes throughout Switzerland. Additionally, visitors can easily spot Great Tits, Robins, and Wrens, while Eagles, Woodpeckers, Raptors, and Waterfowl are exciting species to watch. Every trip to Switzerland is undoubtedly an enjoyable experience for those who love birds. Show more

How can I prepare for a birdwatching trip to Switzerland?

Preparing for a successful Swiss bird watching trip requires packing some essential items. A pair of binoculars to observe and spot birds from afar is a must-have. In addition to binoculars, it is still crucial to pack some weather-appropriate clothing and boots, as birdwatching is generally an outdoor activity. A camera with a good zoom lens is also a need to capture bird photographs. Show more

Are there any rare bird species that can be spotted in Switzerland?

Switzerland may not have as many rare bird species as other places, but there are still sightings to be had. The Alectoris chukar partridge is one of the rare bird species present in Switzerland. Visitors may also spot rare bird species like the Golden or White-tailed Eagle, Osprey, Short-toed Snake Eagles, and Honey Buzzards. The Swiss Ornithological Institute is an excellent source of information about the country's bird species, migration patterns, and birdwatching sites. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin