Nature Travel Network

Europeans have long been aware of Estonia’s birding potential, though until recently this ex-Soviet country has been overlooked. A late winter visit should provide visitors with the spectacle of large wintering flocks of Steller’s Eiders (up to 10,000 may be seen in February!), Long-tailed Ducks, and other sea ducks, while an early spring trip will bring with it up to nine species of European woodpeckers. Hawk, Pygmy and Ural owls and other sought-after specialities such as Hazel Grouse, Parrot Crossbill, Nutcracker, Rough-legged Buzzard and more.

Many of Hungary’s speciality birds are found among its prairie-like grasslands. Two superb raptors, the Saker Falcon and Eastern Imperial Eagle, have their European strongholds on these plains. Late April sees heavy shorebird passage, with Ruff in smart breeding plumage. Fall brings return migration, with over 100,000 Common Cranes passing through in October. Summer breeders in these lowlands include Red-footed Falcon, Eurasian Roller, and Lesser Grey Shrike, and most wetlands come to life with wildfowl, grebes, and herons, plus Savi's Warbler, Bearded Reedling, and Penduline Tit. Hungary also hosts a tempting range of owls, including breeding Eurasian Eagle-Owl, Tawny Owl, and Ural Owls.