Description
Grüner Brink is one of the best birding places in the region. The ferry route connecting Puttgarden to Rødbyhavn in Denmark is called 'Vogelfluglinie' , as this is the migration route of many birds, including raptors and seabirds. Besides migrants, also some attractive breeding birds are found here, several of them have disappeared outside the reserve. A walk around the reserve will allow you to see several different habitats and the birds that belong there. Check the pine trees for Red Crossbill and Long-eared Owl. In the lagoons, there are breeding Red-necked Grebe. On the beach, Little Ternand Common Ringed Plover nest. In the end of May and in August/September, a significant passage of European Honey-buzzard can occur. Many different waders take a stop on their migration. In the corresponding seasons, many migrating seabirds pass offshore, e.g. Brent Goose, Common Eider, Common Scoter, Velvet Scoter, divers. Keep watching for skuas in late summer and autumn. Winter is quieter, but you still can find good birds such as Purple Sandpiper or Bearded Tit.
Details
Access
By car or bicycle, go west from Puttgarden village. At Johannisberg, turn north on the road 'Krummensiek'. Parking is possible at the reserve. You can also walk from the ferry harbour or the Puttgarden camping ground following the beach. Access by wheelchair limited to following the dyke.
Terrain and Habitat
Scattered trees and bushes, Beach, Dunes, Mud flats, Reedbeds, SeaConditions
Flat, Open landscape, No shadow, SandyCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Autumn migration, SpringRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Foot, Bicycle, Car, WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
NoLinks
Birdingplaces Near
The Puttgarden ferry harbour can be interesting to check in winter for wintering ducks such as Greater Scaup, Long-tailed Duck and Common Eider. Sometimes Black Guillemot, which also may be around at Staberhuk in the east corner of the island.
Wasservogelreservat Wallnau on the west coast of Fehmarn, another great birding place year-round.
Check the fields anywhere on Fehmarn during migration and winter seasons, they may hold geese, swans, raptors and waders.