Description
The northern end of the lake is a good option for bird enthusiasts visiting the city. The Utoquai is especially recommended in the early part of the day for scanning the water with binoculars.
There are always very common species around, such as Rață mare , Lebădă de vară , Lișiță , Cormoran mare , Rață moțată, and Ferestraș mare. Sometimes exotic escapees or tricky hybrids provide some excitement.
For beginners looking to learn about different species, and for those simply seeking a relaxed opportunity to go birding, this could be a great spot.
In winter, rarer species are regularly spotted here. While waterfowl such as the Rață cu cap negru and Ferestraș moțat can be more reliably observed at the well-known, more southerly locations on the lake, the Pescăruș negricios overwinters quite regularly; recently, the Pescăruș argintiu has also been observed. Surprisingly, Corcodel cu gât roșu can often be viewed up close.
During migration periods, the Sturzul viilor is a regular visitor in early spring, and the Chiră de baltă in late summer. Thanks to the high density of observers, rarities are frequently reported—such as a Chiră polară in 2007, a Pescăruș cu coadă scobită in 2011, and a Pitulice de Himalaya in 2019.
Details
Access
This spot is best visited when you’re already out and about in the city. In Zurich, everything is well connected by the tram network.
