The warm climate of southern Maremma attracts many birds from Northern Europe in the winter. Lago di Burano, a bird sanctuary of international importance operated by WWF, is also one of the best places to observe migratory species in the colder months. The area consists of wetlands, a saline lake, and large woods. It's a winter home for many kinds of ducks, herons, falcons, and even flamingos. The lake is equipped with observation huts for the comfort of birdwatchers. Excursions are possible only if accompanied by a guide.
Another sanctuary—Riserva Naturale Laguna di Orbetello is more liberal. It can be visited without a guide during daylight hours from September to May. You can see up to 300 bird species including the rare northern bald ibis.
Spring is also a good time for birding since Tuscany is a stopover for many migrating species. Padule di Fucecchio, a reserve located between Pistoia and Lucca is especially great at this time.
Practical info
When is the optimal time for observing birds in Tuscany?
If you're looking to observe birds in Tuscany, the ideal time to visit would be between April-May and December-February. Many birds from Northern Europe flock to the warm climate of southern Maremma during winter, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers. Moreover, Tuscany is also a layover for several migratory species, making spring a fantastic time to spot a variety of birds. Show more
What are some of the ideal locales for birdwatching in Tuscany?
Tuscany has several premier spots for birdwatching like Lago di Burano Bird Sanctuary, Riserva Naturale Laguna di Orbetello, and Padule di Fucecchio. Lago di Burano is a wetland that houses a variety of bird species including ducks, herons, falcons, and even flamingos. Similarly, Riserva Naturale Laguna di Orbetello allows visitors to sight the birds without a guide during daylight hours from September to May. Lastly, Padule di Fucecchio, a reserve located in the mountainous region between Pistoia and Lucca, is especially known for its spring birdwatching opportunities. Show more
Is Lago di Burano bird sanctuary open for a self-guided tour?
Lago di Burano bird sanctuary allows excursions only with a guide. The sanctuary is a wintering ground for various bird species, such as ducks, herons, falcons, and flamingos. However, observation huts make birdwatching more comfortable for visitors. On the other hand, Riserva Naturale Laguna di Orbetello is open for sightseeing without a guide from September to May during daylight hours. Show more
Which bird species are commonly seen in Tuscany?
Tuscany is now a waypoint for several bird species. Among the most frequently seen birds in Tuscany, there are flamingos, herons, ducks, falcons, and songbirds such as Hoopoe and blackcap. At Riserva Naturale Laguna di Orbetello, more than 300 bird species can be spotted. Northern bald ibis is another exciting species sighted during birdwatching in Tuscany. Show more
Which bird reserve provides the best birdsight in spring migration?
Padule di Fucecchio, situated between Pistoia and Lucca, is the go-to reserve for birdwatching enthusiasts during spring migration. The Pistoia Mountains and the marshes of Fucecchio present varied landscapes to birds, making it an excellent habitat for many bird species. Birdwatchers can spot several bird species, including aquatic warblers, bitterns, and terns nesting in the dark water of marshes during spring migration. Show more
