Storstrøm 

1) Barup Lake

2) Bøtø Nor

3) Hyllekrog-Saksfjed Bird Reserve

4) Karrebæk, Dybsø & Avnø Fjords

5) Nakskov Fjord and Indrefjord

6) The Maribo Lakes

7) Nyord

8) Præstø Fed

9) Ravnstrup Lake

10) The Vemmetofte Woods

11) Stevns Klint

12) Tystrup-Bavelse Lakes

13) The island of Møn

Barup Lake

From the observation tower at Barup lake there is a fine view over
the former alder scrub. Photo: Allan Gudio Nielsen

Location:
Barup Lake is situated 3-4 km east of Stubbekøbing on the island of Falster. 
 
Protection/IBA Status:
Barup Lake is owned by the Bird Protection Fund, who acquired it in 1988. The area is not an IBA, but is important for its educational values.

Important Birds:
Red-necked Grebe, Tufted Duck, Marsh Harrier, Water Rail, Spotted Crake, Coot.

Habitat: 
Barup Lake is one of a number of lakes and bogs created in a long sub-glacial stream trench valley, stretching from the present Nørre Alslev to Nykøbing Falster. 4-5,000 years ago this valley was a narrow fjord.

During the 1930s it was attempted to drain Barup lake. The following 20 years hay was harvested on the reclaimed land, but the meadows were so waterlogged that horses had to drag the hay up on to dry ground. Hay harvesting was finally abandoned and the lake returned - and with it, ducks and waterfowl and a colony of Black-headed Gull. However, by 1960 the lake was again so overgrown that the gull colony disappeared. Thanks to the management carried out by the Bird Protection Fund since 1988, the area is now a mosaic of open water, reedbeds, meadows, alder swamp and scrub.

To ensure that the present birdlife can continue to thrive, management is necessary. The water level has to be maintained at a certain level to benefit ducks, grebes and other waterfowl. The reedbeds must be harvested regularly.  Meadows must be grazed by cattle, to enable Lapwing, Redshank, Snipe and other waders to breed. 

Not only birds, but also reptiles and amphibians benefit from the open wetland.

Birds and other Wildlife:
Barup Lake houses breeding duck and waterfowl, including Red-necked Grebe and Coot. The reedbeds are home to Spotted Crake, Water Rail and Marsh Harrier. Twelve species of warbler breed here, including Nightingale, Marsh Warbler, Reed Warbler, Sedge Warbler, Willow Warbler, Whitethroat and occasionally Grasshopper Warbler and Savi's Warbler.

In late August, millions of gnats swarm over the reedbeds, providing a rich source of food for the swallows that can refuel here before migrating south. Osprey can also be seen here at this time of year before they, too, head southwards.

During mild winters up to 1,500 Tufted Duck arrive here from breeding grounds in Sweden, Finland and Russia, and winter here in the company of smaller numbers of Coot.

Visiting & Access:
From motorway E47, turn towards Stubbekøbing at Junction 43. In the village of Blæsebjerg there is a car park at the farm track to Barup Lake.

Follow the boardwalk along the lake shore to the bird observation tower, with its fine view over the lake and the reedbeds. The Bird Protection Fund has started work here to improve the view. In the tower are posters with information about the birds that can be seen on the lake. A pathway carries on to the north side of the lake.

Bøtø Nor
 
Location:
Bøtø Nor is situated near the southernmost point of the island of Falster.

The Bøtø Nor IBA is part of a 10 km long wetland area bordered in the east by the former islands of Langø, Bøtø and Bøtø Fang and westwards by a moraine ridge, that continues past the spit of Gedser Odde and out into the Baltic Sea.

Protection/IBA Status:
The central part of Bøtø Nor was appointed a Nature Reserve in 1976. This is state-owned and managed by the Forestry & Nature Agency. Furthermore, Bøtø Nor is part of a Ramsar Area (which includes the sea between Lolland and Falster). It is also an EU Habitat Area and part of an EC Bird Protection Area. It has been appointed an IBA by BirdLife International.

Important Birds:
Whooper Swan, Bean Goose, Greylag Goose, Barnacle Goose, White-tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Spotted Crake, Corncrake, Crane, Golden Plover, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper and Red-backed Shrike.

Habitat:
The area was subjected to a land reclamation plan during the 1800s and today is still being drained by a network of canals and ditches that lead water into the long Marrebæk canal. At Marrebæk, the water is pumped up 2 m and the canal continues into Guldborg Sund. Large parts of the area are almost 1 m below sea level.

The area is now a mosaic of cattle-grazed fields and meadows, extensive reedbeds, lakes and ponds.

Birds and other Wildlife:
Many ducks, waders and geese are passage migrants on the lake, and in the surrounding fields and meadows many geese and plovers stage during migration. Cranes, too, are regular visitors. Watch out for rarities like Red-necked Phalarope, Marsh Sandpiper, Black-winged Stilt and Red-breasted Goose, which have all been spotted in the area.

Visiting & Access:
There is no access into the Bird Reserve itself, but there are superb views over the area from a hide and an observation tower, both with facilities (wheelchair access included) for viewing birdlife. The southern tower offers extensive vistas over the lake and the surrounding fields, reedbeds and meadow.  

By car, follow Nykøbingvej from Junction 44 on the E47/E55 and follow signposts towards Gedser. Approx 10 km south of Nykøbing Falster, at Marrebæk, turn left towards Bøtø and turn right at the T-junction at the end of the road, along Bøtø Ringvej. Carry on straight ahead to a sign with "Fugletårn" on the right, leading to the hide. Or carry on for another 500 m to the the next "Fugletårn" sign which shows the way to the observation tower. The best time for viewing is before noon, when the sun is in the east.    

There are three sub-localities that can be recommended:

1) Bøtø Plantage 

Gedser Bird Station
 

Gedser Odde is situated at the southernmost tip of the Gedser Odde peninsula, and is one of the best spots in Denmark to watch the autumn migration of all varieties of birds. It can be reached from the town of Gedser by following Langgade south-east to the spit and the lighthouse.

3) Kroghage

Kroghage is situated west of Gedser, approx 3 km west of Gedser Odde, and is an area of small lakes, reedbeds and wet grazing meadows. In spring and autumn the site is ideal for passerines. Kroghage can be the point where migrating raptors fly south over the sea, if westerly winds prevent them from reaching the southernmost point on Falster. 

 

DOF Storstrøm

Hyllekrog-Saksfjed Bird Reserve



Location:
This reserve is reclaimed land situated behind the southernmost point of the island of Lolland. The Saksfjed Dam was built after a violent storm inundated half of southern Lolland in 1872. It is 60 km long and carries on east of the bird reserve.

Protection/IBA Status:
The Hyllekrog-Saksfjed locality was acquired by DOF's Bird Protection Fund in 1995, and is now under management. It has also been appointed an IBA by BirdLife International.

Important Birds:
Red-throated Diver, Black-throated Diver, Red-necked Grebe, Cormorant, Bittern, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Bean Goose, Greylag Goose, Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Smew, Red-breasted Merganser, White-tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Coot, Avocet, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Little Tern, Black Guillemot, Short-eared Owl, Red-backed Shrike. 

"Caretaker cow" with Hyllekrog Lighthouse in the background.

Habitat:
The 163 ha area comprises wood, scrubland, coastal meadow, dykes, dunes and beach, ponds and shallow salt water lagoons. The area is now under management and the meadows are being grazed to ensure a richer and more varied vegetation and better opportunities for breeding waders.

Birds and other Wildlife:
The locality is renowned for its spectacular show of migrating pigeons, passerines and raptors - many of them passing over the highest sand dunes known as Store Brunddrag. On a good day in August several hundred Honey Buzzard can be spotted, flying out over the Baltic Sea, and a little later in the year, Sparrowhawk, Buzzard, Hobby, harriers and many other birds follow. With luck it is possible late in the day to observe the numerous passerines and pigeons settling down for the night, roosting in the wood north of Billitse mill. Look out, too, for raptors which spend the night in the fields. Another phenomenon is the autumn migration of Red Admiral butterflies, which fly out across the sea in a steady stream on warm, windless days in August and September.

Autumn also brings migrating waders: Ringed Plover, Turnstone, Redshank, Dunlin, Oystercatcher, godwits, Golden Plover, Curlew among them, that forage on the north side of the spit at low tide. At sea, Eider and Pintail can be seen.

In summer, the reserve is home to nearly 75 different bird species, including relatively rare birds such as Gadwall, Garganey, Pochard, Red-backed Shrike and Whinchat. Although the Hyllekrog spit is closed for public access in the breeding season, many of the birds can be seen from the dyke, in the ponds along the dyke, in the wood and on the meadows. The shallow water inside the spit attracts large numbers of ducks and waders. Mute Swans are seen here all year round, especially in late summer, when up to 10,000 swans come here to moult, making this one of the most important swan moulting sites in all Denmark. 

Both spring and autumn, the shallow waters give shelter to flocks of Whooper Swan, Brent Goose, Bean Goose, Wigeon, Teal and Shelduck.

Hyllekrog is also well-known for the presence of the European Green Toad, which can be found in the ponds and wet areas.

Visiting & Access:
From the E47 going south to Rødby, turn off towards Holeby at Junction 49 and carry on south past Tågerup. After Lungholm Estate turn south past Bjernæs to a car park at Store Brunddrag.

As in other areas owned by the Bird Protection Fund, various facilities are being established for visitors, such as picnic sites, information posters, etc. Guided tours are arranged. Fires of any kind are strictly prohibited! A fire here in the summer of 2006 damaged a large part of the vegetation on the spit.

The best time to visit is late summer and autumn. There is no access to the spit of Hyllekrog during the breeding season, 1st March until 17th July.

Karrebæk, Dybsø & Avnø Fjords

Whooper Swans at Fladstrand. Photo: Finn Jensen
 

Location:
Karrebæk, Dybsø & Avnø Fjords are situated on the south-west coast of Zealand. This huge IBA locality stretches from Karrebæk in the north, sweeping round Karrebæk Fjord, Dybsø Fjord and Avnø Fjord and includes the spit of Knudshoved Odde in the south-west, as well as part of Karrebæksminde Bugt.

Protection/IBA Status:
The fjord area is an EU Bird Protection Area and Ramsar Area, and also an IBA under BirdLife International.

Important Birds:
Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Bean Goose, Greylag Goose, Barnacle Goose, Pintail, Shoveler, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Smew , Red-breasted Merganser, Goosander, White-tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Coot, Avocet, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Little Tern and Red-backed Shrike.

Habitat:
The fjords in this locality have shallow water and offer shelter and food for many ducks, geese, swans, grebes and waders. On land are meadows and undisturbed beaches where migrant birds can rest and refuel.

As this is such a large area, there are several different localities from where the birdlife can be observed. We recommend the following six (starting at Enø and moving round in a clockwise direction).

1) Enø Overdrev and Dybsø

Location:
Enø Overdrev is the stretch of meadowland south-east of the conglomeration of holiday bungalows on Enø, south of Næstved.

Habitat:
Coastal meadows with wet areas, small islets, tidal ditches, pastures with grazing cattle, dotted with hawthorn. North of the grassy areas are large mudbanks. From the meadows, there is a view across to the island of Dybsø, which has cattle-grazed pastures, and a large mudbank to the north-west. 

Birds and other Wildlife:
The breeding bird population on Enø Overdrev has been in decline since 1990, due partly to fox predation, and partly to increased recreational activities. However, on the island of Dybsø, which is undisturbed, breeding birds include Red-necked Grebe, Mute Swan, Greylag Goose, Eider, Pintail, Garganey, Common Gull, Black-headed Gull, Arctic Tern, Little Tern, Oystercatcher, Avocet, Lapwing, Ringed Plover and Redshank.

Staging birds include Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Wigeon, Mallard, Pintail, Shoveler, Oystercatcher, Bar-tailed Godwit, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Lapwing, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Dunlin, Knot, Little Stint, Redshank, Spotted Redshank, Greenshank, Curlew, White-tailed Eagle and Peregrine.   

Visiting & Access:
From Karrebæksminde, drive south-east to Draget where there is a small car park. Walk along the beach to the stile in the fence. Once here, visitors are requested to walk on the pasture rather than on the beach. Walk all the way to the scrub in the middle of the pasture. The mud banks can be scanned at low tide, and look for small birds in the scrubs.  From here, one can overview the birdlife on Dybsø.

2) Fladstrand and surrounds:

Location:
Fladstrand is a shallow lagoon bordered by the island of Gavnø to the west and the promontory of Vejlø to the east.

Habitat:
Round the lagoon are long stretches of meadowland grazed by cattle. The largest reedbed areas are found at the north end of the lagoon. Both Gavnø and Vejlø have extensive woodland.

Birds and other Wildlife:
Large numbers of ducks winter in this area, and flocks of swans stage here during migration. The narrow sounds attract thousands of Tufted Duck and Goldeneye during winter. Many common dabbling ducks also assemble here. All three species of Merganser are frequent visitors to several local spots. During the winter months, geese stop off in large numbers throughout the area. Various species of raptors are attracted to the fields, meadows and woods. The White-tailed Eagle has for several years been a regular visitor, often being spotted over the large fields and woods at Gavnø and around Vejlø. Periodically one can be lucky enough to see the Golden Eagle, and in spring and autumn Peregrine can be spotted.

Breeding birds: Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Shelduck, Pintail, and Garganey, Marsh Harrier, Common Buzzard, Kestrel, White-tailed Eagle, Water Rail, Lapwing, Snipe, Tawny Owl, Long-eared Owl, and Sedge Warbler. 

Staging birds: Little Grebe, Great Crested Grebe, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Bewick's Swan, Greylag Goose (with numbers of up to 3000), Canada Geese, Smew (up to 200 have been seen at one time!), Tufted Duck (with maximum numbers of 20,000), Wigeon, Mallard, Pochard, Golden Plover, Lapwing, White-tailed Eagle (up to 22), Peregrine, Marsh Harrier, Hen Harrier and Rough-legged Buzzard.

Of the rarer birds that have been spotted here, the following should be mentioned: White Stork, Arctic Skua, Pink-footed Goose, Snow Goose, Ferruginous Duck, Red-breasted Pochard, Corncrake, Golden Eagle and Gyr Falcon.

Visiting & Access:
The wood of Vejlø Skov can be reached by a minor road leading off from Route 22 at Rettestrup, just outside Næstved. Walk to the edge of the wood from the car park in Vejlø Skov. The north and west parts of the Fladstrand lagoon can be viewed from here. It is unfortunately no longer possible to walk around the island of Gavnø, although it can be viewed from Ydernæs to the north. Park at the sailing club, or on Fiskehusvej Road, south of Næstved. It can also be seen from the small car park south of Appenæs or from the road to Karrebæksminde, west of the island and Karrebæk Fjord.

3) Basnæs Fed & Jars Skov:

Location:
The promontory of Basnæs Fed and Jars Skov wood are situated a few kilometers south of Næstved, on the northern side of Dybsø Fjord.

Habitat:
Cattle-grazed meadows with smaller patches of reedbeds and mixed deciduous and pine wood.

Birds and other Wildlife:
Breeding birds: Shelduck, Shoveler, Avocet, Ringed Plover and Redshank. There is a Grey Heron colony in Jars Skov.

White-tailed Eagle can occasionally be spotted in Jars Skov.

Visiting & Access:
From Næstved drive towards Vordingborg on Route 22. Turn off in the village of Vester Egesborg towards Svendstrup and follow the sign to Jarsskov. Park at the small car park at the northern end. There are two bird observation towers in the wood: one at the eastern end with a view over Dybsø Fjord, and one at the western edge with a view over Basnæs Fed and part of Dybsø Fjord. Follow the public path into the wood for approx 300 m to the eastern observation tower. Back at the dirt road, turn right and follow the road to a sign showing the way to the other tower in the western part of the wood.


4) Avnø

The view of one of the new lakes from the airport control tower. Photo: Finn Jensen

Location:
Avnø promontory is situated approx 13 km north of Vordingborg, on the northern coast of Avnø Fjord. The area - formerly a military airport - came under a preservation order in 2002 and is now managed by the Forest and Nature Agency. Today the airport buildings function as a nature school and centre, and have a full-time nature warden.

Habitat:
The area comprises cattle-grazed pasture, wet coastal meadows and swamps with many tidal ditches and a large lagoon. There are also some excavated pits (3 large pits and a number of smaller ones) which have been included in a nature restoration program. The old drainage pipes have been destroyed, thereby helping water to return. The water level in the waterholes varies and the smaller ones tend to dry out during summer. Hay is harvested from mid-July.

Birds & other Wildlife:
Breeding birds: Grey Heron and Rook colonies in the wood. Mute Swan, Mallard, Shoveler, Garganey, Oystercatcher, Avocet, Ringed Plover, Lapwing, Redshank, Marsh Harrier, Corn Bunting. There is a possibility that Curlew may be breeding here.

Staging birds: Grey Heron, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Barnacle Goose, Shelduck, Wigeon, Teal, Pintail, Shoveler, Avocet, Golden Plover, Grey Plover, Lapwing, Knot, Common Dunlin, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Ruff, Snipe, Black-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Curlew, Spotted Redshank, Redshank, Greenshank,  Marsh Sandpiper, White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine, Hen Harrier, Buzzard, Rough-legged Buzzard, Great Grey Shrike, Meadow Pipit, Skylark, Linnet, Twite and Snow Bunting.

Rare visitors: Great White Heron, Crane, Lesser White-fronted Goose, Ruddy Shelduck, Osprey, Black Kite, Montagu’s Harrier, Red-footed Falcon, Merlin, Short-eared Owl, Mediterranean Gull, Little Gull, Pacific Golden Plover, Wood Warbler, Bearded Tit, Waxwing, Black Woodpecker.

Visiting & Access:
A number of facilities are established for visitors. An overall view of the site is obtained from the abandoned control tower on the eastern edge of the wood of Nokkeskov, with views over the south-eastern part of Avnø Fjord and the inlet of Muldvig. From up here the new ponds can be seen: the best sightings being made in spring when numerous ducks and waders stage here. 

At Nokkeskov in the southern part of Avnø is a camp site, with basic accomodation, complete with a barbeque cooking area.

There is a network of public paths in the area with good chances for bird spotting. Between 30th March to 1st July visitors are strongly requested to keep to the pathways. Towards the north is Hytteholme with large lagoons and tidal ditches. This is where large flocks of geese, ducks and waders can be seen. Visitors are requested to keep at a reasonable distance to avoid disturbing them.

6) Knudshoved Halvø and Knudskov

Habitat:
The peninsula is characterized by long stretches of pasture with hillocks and a number of smaller lakes. Galloway cattle graze the pastures. The wood consists mainly of Nobilis pine.

 
Mute Swans with cygnets. Photo: Finn Jensen

Birds and other Wildlife:
Breeding birds: Mute Swan, Eider, Red-breasted Merganser, Goosander, Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Redshank, Yellow Wagtail, Red-backed Shrike, Scarlet Rosefinch. Earlier, Barred Warbler and Golden Oriole used to breed here. The wood also houses Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Woodcock, Tawny Owl, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Nightingale and Wood Warbler.

Staging birds: Cormorant, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Bean Goose, White-fronted Goose, Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Shelduck, Velvet Scoter, Goldeneye, Smew, Goosander, White-tailed Eagle, Hen Harrier, Buzzard, Rough-legged Buzzard, Coot, Golden Plover and Woodcock.

Visiting & Access:
A minor road follows the peninsula as far as a car park at the wood (remember to pay the car park fee). Follow the public paths in the area. From the north part of the wood there is a good view of much of Avnø Fjord. Along the southern edge of the wood there are small paths from where the sea can be scanned. To reach the end of the peninsula, follow the road from the car park to the narrow bar known as Draget. At high tide it can be difficult to pass here. Follow the on the spit - at the end is a hillock with good views across the sea.

Birds and other Wildlife:
The uninhabited islets in the outer fjord are important breeding sites for swans, geese, ducks and waders. Many of the breeding birds, amongst others Avocet and Redshank, forage in the southern part of the fjord. This area also offers the best opportunities for watching White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine, Red Kite and Osprey. In Lille Vejle Skov there is a Heronry. On Rommelholm islet there is a Cormorant colony.

During winter, numerous swans and geese stage on the fjord, and forage on the adjacent fields for turnip scraps, winter seeds and winter rape. The area south of Nakskov Fjord has over the past few years become the most important staging grounds in Denmark for Tundra Bean Goose, which can be seen in numbers of up to 3,000 to 5,000, together with thousands of Greylag Geese, White-fronted Geese and Barnacle Geese.

The Indrefjord supports breeding Mute Swan, various ducks, Great Crested Grebe, Water Rail and a sizeable population of Bearded Tit. During winter the Indrefjorden is an important staging area for geese, Goosander, Smew, and thousands of Tufted Duck. In May with winds from the east there is a fair chance of spotting both Little Gull and Black Tern foraging here.   

In summer a post-boat sails between Nakskov and the islands and Albuen. On Smedeholm, Dueholm, Rommerholm, the northern part of Enehøje, and on the outermost end of Albuen, there is no access during the birds’ breeding season, from 15th March until 7th July. On Enehøje there is a bird observation tower.

The old railway track between the two roads Rødbyvej and Maglehøjvej is recommended for watching the birds around the Indrefjord. The dyke along the south bank is another popular birding location, but access is prohibited during the  breeding season. The visitor might also spot the elusive Bearded Tit here.



The Maribo Lakes

Protection/IBA Status:
The locality is covered by the general nature protection laws. It is not an IBA, but is of interest due to its pair of breeding White-tailed Eagles.

Habitat:
This is an unusually hilly area, on an otherwise flat island. Woodland estates, with wide open stretches of fields, surround the lakes, that have numerous small inlets, promontories and islands and many stretches with reedbeds. 

Birds & other Wildlife:
On Askø and Lindø in Søndersø there are mixed colonies of Cormorant (2500) and Heron (200-300 breeding pairs). Gadwall, Spoonbill, Pochard and Marsh Harrier breed around the lakes. During summer the reedbeds echo to the sound of birdsong. The Bittern can also be heard, booming away here, in early spring. Since 1997 a pair of White-tailed Eagles have been breeding here, and have successfully reared two chicks each year. They can be observed here most times of the year.

During autumn and winter, the lakes are home to Smew, Goosander, Greylag Goose, Bean Goose, White-fronted Goose, Barnacle Goose and Canada Goose.

Visiting and Access:
Turn off the motorway at junction 47 and follow road signs towards Maribo, where the lakes stretch out south of the town. The lakeside can be accessed from various paths and roads around the lakes. 

Location:
Nyord is a relatively small island situated at the north-west corner of the island of Møn.

Protection/IBA Status:
The area forms part of the Ulvshale-Nyord Nature Reserve and is also part of an EU Bird Protection Area and an EU Habitat area. The total area of the Nyord meadows is approx 400 ha, of which around 1/3 are owned by the Bird Protection Fund, who have been acquiring meadowland here since 1971. The area has also been appointed an IBA by BirdLife International. The IBA area covers sea and shoreline from Ulvshale in the south to Præstø Fjord and Præstø Fed in the north.

Important Birds: (for the whole IBA area)
Cormorant, Mute Swan, Bewick’s Swan, Whooper Swan, Greylag Goose, Barnacle Goose, Dark-bellied Brent Goose, Wigeon, Teal, Pintail, Tufted Duck, Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser, Goosander, White-tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Peregrine, Spotted Crake, Coot, Crane, Avocet, Golden Plover, Dunlin, Ruff, Black-tailed Godwit, Sandwich Tern, Common Tern, Arctic Tern, Little Tern, Black Woodpecker, Woodlark, Red-backed Shrike.

Habitat:
This locality is one of eastern Denmark's largest coastal meadow areas with a very rich and varied birdlife. The meadows have never been cultivated, drained or fertilized, and this means that they are an ideal breeding ground for waders. However, the vegetation must be kept short and the meadows are therefore grazed in summer.

Birds & other Wildlife:
Approx 20 species of waders breed here in the reserve. Ducks, gulls, terns, Oystercatcher, Lapwing, Redshank and Avocet breed with up to 100 pairs each. The population of Black-tailed Godwit is small, but increasing. Nyord meadows are one of the last areas where it is still possible to find breeding Black-tailed Godwit in eastern Denmark, and some years there are also Ruff and Dunlin. Very few Pintail, Garganey and Shoveler breed here. From the bird observation tower it is possible to see across to the cormorant colony on the islet of Tyreholm (south-east of Nyord). 

In 1998, after an absence of many years, a Black-headed Gull colony again established itself on Sydengen meadow. A small flock of Spoonbill turned up for a visit in 2000, but chose not to settle for breeding.  In 2001 a pair of Barnacle Geese made their nest on Nyord - a possible overflow from a large population breeding on Saltholm island (offshore from Copenhagen) .


Sunrise over Nyord. Photo: Bo Tureby

Probably most important of all, the Nyord meadows serve as a staging area of international importance.

In autumn, large numbers of waders, geese and duck can be seen on the meadows and out at sea. At high tide many ducks settle on the meadows, particularly Wigeon. Flocks of Starling, swallows and Sand Martin gather here before flying south. Thousands of Lapwing and Golden Plover stop over here.

In winter, large flocks of Canada Geese are often seen. White-tailed Eagle, Peregrine and Hen Harrier can be spotted over the meadows. Snow Bunting flocks from northern Scandinavia sometimes pass through.

Nyord meadow 

Visiting & Access:
From the town of Stege on Møn, drive along the harbour and follow signs to Ulvshale and Nyord. A road crosses the island and ends at a car park north of the town of Nyord. It is prohibited to land boats on the island or to come closer than 50 m inshore.  There is a bird observation tower in the reserve offering views over the meadows. It is also a good idea to use the car as a “mobile hide” - this way it is possible to watch the birds from a distance of just a few meters. There is no public access to the meadows, including farm tracks.

Location:           
Præstø Fed is a club-shaped peninsula situated on the south-east coast of Zealand, forming a land barrier between Præstø Fjord and Fakse Bugt.

Protection/IBA Status:
The heath and  coastal meadows on the promontory are a conservation area. Præstø Fjord, including part of Fakse Bugt, is a Ramsar Area and an EU Bird Protection Area, and also an IBA. (See Nyord for list of important birds).
  
Habitat:
Præstø Fed is partly covered with pine, birch and larch wood, and is renowned for its wide eastern beach, which towards its southern tip ends in meadowland and reedbeds. Its south-eastern side is heath - a rare landscape in eastern Denmark - while the south-western area is farmland. 

Birds & other Wildlife:
Præstø Fed is an important staging area for wintering ducks. The birds are mostly seen off the south-eastern point, at Fedhage. Further out at sea, spectacular flocks of various ducks, divers, and grebes can be seen. These include Long-tailed Duck, Scaup, Pochard, Smew, Red-breasted Merganser, Great Crested Grebe, and sometimes Slavonian Grebe. The first migrating waders of the year are often spotted here, as well as being regular autumn visitors, staging on the meadows adjacent to the foreshore. Look out for species like the Lesser Golden Plover which also make rare appearances here.

In the mixed woodland glades many species of smaller birds, such as Crossbill and Parrot Crossbill, can often be seen and heard. In winter one can be lucky enough to sometimes see or hear the Black Woodpecker. In autumn migration, during favourable wind conditions, skuas and Little Gulls can occasionally be sighted.

The varied landscape offers good opportunities for watching several species of raptors. Goshawk and Peregrine can be spotted, and White-tailed Eagles regularly overwinter here.

Visiting & Access :    
From E 47/E55 turn off at Junction 38 and drive along the Marguerite Route for approx 4 km. Turn left along Route 209 for 5-6 km and Præstø Fed will turn up on the right. Between the farmland and the wood at the southern end, a bird observation tower has been erected, affording fine views over the whole location. 


 

DOF Storstrøm

Ravnstrup Lake

Clearing the way for the Bittern.

Visiting & Access:
From Route 14 between Næstved and Ringsted, turn off towards Glumsø (at Herlufmagle Hallen). After approx 3 km (second road after the railway embankment), turn towards Trælløse/Skelby along Ålehusvej Road. The entrance to the Bird Reserve appears at the first bend on the road.

DOF Storstrøm

The Vemmetofte Woods

 
Vemmetofte Castle 

Location:
On the east coast of Zealand, north of the seaside town of Fakse Ladeplads, lies Vemmetofte Estate. The IBA locality comprises the five woods of Strandskov, Dyrehave, Vesterskov, Stubberup Skov and Lille Skov (north of Stubberup Skov). The woods cover two thirds of the area, whilst a third is arable land.   

Protection/IBA Status:
The area is an EU Bird Protection Area, which is identical to the IBA locality. Part of the area is also protected by the EU Habitats Directive, due partly to the presence of the rare Hermit Beetle (Osmoderma eremita). The estate has decided to leave the beech wood in Strandskov, next to the beach, undisturbed, for recreational purposes.

Important Birds:
Goosander, Honey Buzzard, Red Kite, Red-backed Shrike.
   
Habitat:
Strandskov is a windswept wood with many tall beech trees stretching inland from the coast, with patches of mixed deciduous trees and pines. The other woods have a mixture of deciduous trees and pine, and Dyrehave has in addition an interesting area dominated by ancient oaks. The woods are exploited commercially, and there is also pheasant rearing and hunting.

Birds and other Wildlife:
A project to put up  nesting boxes for Goosander has been successful, so that several pairs now breed at the edge of the wood. There is a heronry at the eastern end of Strandskov. Honey Buzzards breed in the wood, and with luck one may hear the Golden Oriole or an Icterine Warbler.

The rare Hermit Beetle lives in the older part of the wood, and interesting plants include Broad-leaved Helleborine (Epipactis helleborine) and Druce White Helleborine (Cephalanthera damasonium) orchids.

Visiting & Access:
Turn off E47/E55 at Junction 36 and drive eastwards to the village of Olstrup. Drive north (left turn) along Route 151 for 2 km, then turn right along the Marguerite route which carries on approx 10-15 km to the woods around Vemmetofte.

The locality is easily accessed. Vemmetofte estate and the surrounding area offer many sites of historical and cultural interest, as well as various kinds of recreational activities. There is a restaurant and a camp site. In the woods are blazed walks: in Dyrehave the so-called Red Route (3½ km). From the restaurant at the beach, the Yellow Route leads into Strandskov (4½1 km). A Blue Route (5 km) starts off from the forester’s house close to the beach at Strandskov.

The woods are private, estate property, and the owners urge visitors to show some consideration. Dogs must be kept on a lead. It is permitted to walk all over the woods, but cyclists must keep to the roads and pathways. Visitors are requested to avoid private homes and not to damage trees and bushes. Open fires are prohibited.

Information posters and folders with maps etc. are distributed all round the area, at the camp site, etc. 

 
 DOF Storstrøm

Stevns Klint

 
The cliff of Stevns Klint seen from Flagbanken

Location:
Stevns Klint is a long chalk cliff coastline on south-east Zealand - 20 km long and up to 40 m high - stretching from Holtug in the north to Rødvig in the south. The locality is only 25 km WSW of Falsterbo in Sweden - a site well-known for its autumn migration - and is especially targeted by large raptors. This makes Stevns Klint one of Zealand’s best hotspots to be during migration, especially in autumn.

Protection/IBA Status:
Stevns Klint has been registered as an IBA by BirdLife International. Attempts have been made to apply for the area to be appointed a Nature Reserve, but these have so far failed. Part of the area comes under the EU Habitats Directive.

Important Birds:
Buzzard, White-tailed Eagle.

Habitat:
The cliff consists of white chalk, interspersed with grey chalk and flint. The cliff also contains fossilized sea creatures, which can sometimes be found on the narrow beach, although this is accessible in only a few places, due to erosion.

The IBA locality itself stretches 100 m out to sea from the cliff, and 100 m inland. Behind this area, intensive farming predominates. There are chalk quarries at Holtug, Højerup and Boesdal. From Bøgeskov harbour in the north to Rødvig harbour in the south, a narrow footpath meanders along the cliff-top through wood consisting mainly of beech. In this woodland there is a wealth of chalk-loving plants and also - quite surprisingly - plants that prefer acid soil. On the cliff itself are several rare mosses that are found only on chalky soil.

Birds and other Wildlife:
Stevns Klint offers excellent nesting sites for Sand Martin, House Martin and Peregrine. Being so far towards the south-east there are good chances of seeing Scarlet Rosefinch and Greenish Warbler. Red Kite and many other birds of prey are seen here. 

Visiting & Access:
The area can be accessed by several minor roads leading off Routes 261 or 154 or the town of Store Heddinge. The beach is accessible at six places, where roads cut through the cliff (see sub-localities below). The area is used widely for recreational purposes such as hang-gliding from the cliff-top, and fishing in the sea below.

At tourist information sites it is possible to find folders with details about some of the individual sub-localities.

The six sub-localities that can be accessed are as follows (starting from the north):

1) Holtug Chalk Quarry 
This is an abandoned chalk quarry with interesting cliffs and water-holes. Several rare chalky soil plants thrive here. Amongst others, Knapweed Broomrape (Orobanche elatior). In early summer the water-holes teem with thousands of Common Newt (Triturus vulgaris). To get here, drive east from Holtug towards the coast and follow signs to Holtug Kridtbrud.

2) Mandehoved / Flagbanken
During autumn migration this can be one of Denmark’s best sites for watching raptors. Patches of woodland and hedgerows here attract passerines. There are excellent views out over the sea towards Falsterbo from the cliff near the Nature Centre, or one can walk along the cliff-top path. Peregrine have been spotted here.

3) Stevns Kridtbrud
This is a working chalk quarry. It can be viewed from the road west of the quarry.

4) Stevns Lighthouse
The lighthouse is surrounded by wood and hedgerows providing suitable breeding and staging sites for passerines. In a few places there are fair views out over the sea. To get here, drive northwards from the village of Højerup. After 2 km, turn right for the lighthouse. Scarlet Rosefinch has been observed here.

5) Højerup
This village is one of the places visitors seek out to enjoy the views from the cliffs. From the car park (after having paid the fee) it is possible to walk to the cliffs and down to the beach along a public foot path. Serins were seen here in 2007, including one with a beak full of nesting material.

6) Boesdal Quarry and Korsnæb
This is an exiting “mountain” landscape in the abandoned chalk quarry, situated between Højerup and Rødvig. There is a car park at the entrance to the quarry. There should be good possibilities of seeing Wheatear here.

The Tystrup Bavelse Lakes

Important Birds:
Whooper Swan, Bean Goose, Pochard, Tufted Duck, Honey Buzzard, White-tailed Eagle, Marsh Harrier, Golden Eagle, Corncrake, Avocet, Common Tern, Little Tern, Kingfisher, Red-backed Shrike.

Habitat:
This landscape was created during the last ice age when two glaciers merged, shaping a sub-glacial stream trench, which today forms the Suså river and the Tystrup Bavelse lake system. At its deepest point, Tystrup Lake is 21.7 m deep, whilst Bavelse Lake is 8.8 m deep. As the lakes are so deep, and as many springs rise from the lake beds, the lakes stay ice-free longer than other lakes in cold winters. The openings in the ice benefit, not least, the rich birdlife.

There are a few areas with shallow water at the edge of the lakes, and there are reedbeds at several places. Midway along the lakes are the Vinstrup Holme: flat islets surrounded by reedbeds.

Birds and other Wildlife:
The woods, meadows and fields round the lakes offer a variety of birdlife alle year round. The commoner passerines breed in the woods, but also raptors and owls. Suserup Skov is a wood with many hollow trees, which are ideal for nesting woodpeckers, Nuthatch, Stock Dove and Pied Flycatcher. Along the lake banks, grebes, ducks, various reedbed birds such as Marsh Harrier and waders such as Oystercatcher, Redshank and Ringed Plover breed.

During winter, many birds arrive from Scandinavia to stage here: Great Crested Grebe, Smew, Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Mute Swan, Whooper Swan, Bewick's Swan and numerous Coot. Winter also sees the arrival of large flocks of ducks: Tufted Duck winter in numbers of up to 15,000, and large numbers of Mallard, as well as smaller populations of Goldeneye, Pochard and Teal are seen. At Tamose bog Shelduck, Shoveler and Garganey can be spotted.

Geese also call in early winter. Bean Geese dominate in numbers, but Greylag and Canada Geese are also well represented. Occasionally Pink-footed, White-fronted and Barnacle Geese are observed.

In the forests in winter, flocks of passerines such as tits, finches, woodpeckers, treecreepers, and crossbills are found. In some streams the Dipper can be seen. The Kingfisher is mostly observed at the mouth of the Suså. In open areas of the forests, Great Grey Shrike can be spotted. Raven are commonly seen flying over the woods and fields.

Raptors such as Common Buzzard, Rough-legged Buzzard, Goshawk and Hen Harrier are attracted to these lakes. The most thrilling experience is witnessing the occasional visit from the White-tailed Eagle, with its huge wing span. Golden Eagle also visit the lake occasionally, and it is not unusual to catch sight of Osprey, Marsh Harrier, Honey Buzzard and Peregrine.

Visiting & Access:
Drive southbound out of Sorø past the Sorø Academy on the Marguerite Route No. 239 for approx 7 km, then turn left along the road following the west bank of Tystrup Sø. Turn left at Dyrehave (the deer park), and carry on through Rejnstrup to the Suså and Bavelse Sø.  There are several car parks around the lakes, with paths giving access the lakeside itself.

Walking is permitted on the roads and paths in the private woods, which occasionally may be closed due to hunting or ongoing forestry work. The "Adgang forbudt" (Admission prohibited) sign at Bavelse Estate applies only to the estate buildings, not the road along Bavelse Sø. At the north end of Tystrup Sø is Kongskilde Friluftsgård with restaurant, Youth Hostel and Nature Centre, offering outdoor activities in the area. At the lakeside nearby at Frederikskilde Skov is a basic camp site, with tables, benches and grill facilities, free for public use. It is also possible to bathe in this part of the lake, as an artificial beach has been created. The lakes are used for canoeing, but with restrictions, and there are also restrictions on hunting, sailing, etc. 

It may be useful to acquire the Forestry and Nature Agency's folder covering the northern end of Tystrup Sø and the area around Hørhaven, which can also be downloaded from www.skovognatur.dk/Udgivelser/Vandretursfoldere/atilaa/Kongskilde

There are four good spots for bird-watching:

Tamosen moss in spring

 The island of Møn

The island of Møn is situated south-east of Zealand. The most renowned part of Møn is its cliff. For bird-watchers, this has become even more interesting since a pair of Peregrine started breeding here in 2001 - at the same spot as the last breeding pair in Denmark, which deserted the locality in 1972. The birds can best be seen from the beach, though patience may be necessary.

Møn's Klint, winter 2005. Photo: Danish Geological society.

Protection/IBA Status:
The area is state-owned and managed by the Forestry and Nature Agency. It is also an IBA.

Visiting & Access:
From E47/E55 follow signs to Stege, then Magleby. The cliffs and the Klinteskoven wood lie to the east of the town. In and around the wood at the top of the cliff there are four localities that are worth mentioning. It is recommended to acquire the relevant folder published by the Forestry and Nature Agency, or download it from www.skovognatur.dk/Udgivelser/Vandretursfoldere/atilaa/Moens

1) Bødker Mose

Location:
Bødker Mose is situated 14 km east of Stege, south of the wood of Klinteskoven.

Habitat:    
The area is a mosaic of meadows, mixed woodland, ponds, and the bog of Bødker Mose in a low-lying stretch of open land. 
 
Birds and other Wildlife:
The area offers an interesting variety of passerines. Warblers, flycatchers and Red-backed Shrike are found in the hedgerows, and on the steep northern slopes. Sometimes Nightingale can be found in the area. In and around the lakes and ponds, waterfowl, including Little Grebe, abound. Reed Warbler, Whitethroat, thrushes, Goldfinch, Chiffchaff, Bullfinch and Firecrest (April/May) can also be seen. During late May, in the area between the surfaced road and the coastal cliffs there is a good possibility of spotting rare visitors, such as Golden Oriole (rare), Scarlet Rosefinch, Bluethroat (rare), or Lesser Spotted Woodpecker. From the cliffs one can observe the spring migration of raptors and Cranes.

The locality is well-known for its great variety of plants and flowers, including orchids, interbreeds of cowslips, and species generally rare to Denmark.

Visiting and access :
Approach the area from Busene, driving east, turn left, and on one’s left hand side a wetland-depression called Bødker Mose can be seen. Immediately after having turned towards Klinteskoven, a forest road on the right - situated in the area between the open fields and an old pinewood - leads eastwards towards the cliff. From here there are grand vistas eastwards across the Baltic, and westwards over the hilly chalk downs.

Map from the Forestry and Nature Agency's folder

1) Høvblege

Location:
Høvblege is an expanse of grassland on the hill to the south of Klinteskoven, between Mandemarke and Busene.

Habitat:
Høvblege is a large common used for grazing.

Birds and other Wildlife:
From this locality, one can observe spring migration of raptors. Red-backed Shrike is almost sure to be seen and ocasionally some very rare birds turn up. The rarest known was a Rüppell’s Warbler seen for the first time in Denmark in May 1993, in company with a Subalpine Warbler. There are also rare butterflies, found only in few Danish localities, and some very rare species of flora.

Visiting & Access:
Høvblege can be accessed by small paths from Klinteskoven, or from a path leading from the road between Mandemarke and Busene. From the small car park here one can walk up to Høvblege.

3) Jydelejet

Location:
Jydelejet is another grassland area situated immediately north of Klinteskoven. Approaching from Magleby, the highest point Aborrebjerg stands out conspicuously at 143 m.

Habitat:  
Coastal downs behind chalk sea cliffs. Hilly open pasture interspersed with clumps of beech and juniper.

Birds and other Wildlife:
During spring migration, Jydelejet is a popular venue for birdwatching, when many passerines stop off in this unique landscape and raptors can be observed soaring over the tree tops and on the steep slopes. Migrating birds include Cranes, White and Black Storks, Wryneck, wagtails, Robin, Red-breasted Flycatcher and Bluethroat. Raptors can include Buzzard, Honey Buzzard, Sparrowhawk, Red Kite, White-tailed Eagle, Lesser Spotted Eagle (1-2 per year), Imperial Eagle (1 record), Short-toed Eagle (2 records), and various species of falcon, notably the Peregrine which breeds nearby.

The area is also home to some breeding passerines, including Redstart, Scarlet Rosefinch, Red-backed Shrike and Thrush Nightingale.

This area, too, has an interesting and often rare vegetation.

Visiting and Access:
North of Klinteskoven, coming from Magleby, and immediately before the entrance to the campsite, turn left towards Liselund. 200 m further on is a small car park on the edge of Jydelejet. From here, paths lead into the area, one of them ascending Aborrebjerg, which is the best observation post for migrating raptors. In clear weather, one can from Aborrebjerg see Stevns and the Farø bridges, which also offer splendid opportunities for birdwatching during spring migration.

Møn Lighthouse. Photo: Per Schiermacher-Hansen

4) Møn Lighthouse

Location:
Møn Lighthouse is situated on the most south-easterly point of Møn.

Habitat:
Coastal area with open meadows. Dense growth of hawthorn and scrub on the seaward slopes.

Birds and other Wildlife:
In the dense scrub along the coast many passerines stop off on migration, and the coast itself is a navigational bearing for birds migrating northwards. Flycatcher, Redstart and many of the year's first warblers are found in the scrub. It is also possible to spot many ducks, especially Eiders, moving offshore. 

Visiting and Access:
To reach Møn Lighthouse, drive east from Busene and follow the road heading due south. There are two small car parks on the southern coast and from here one can enjoy the splendid views over the Baltic Sea and Klintholm harbour. This is also a good place for bathing in summer.