EuroBirdwatch 2025: Celebrate Europe’s Great Autumn Bird Migration

Every October, bird lovers across Europe come together to witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles — the mass migration of millions of birds heading to their wintering grounds. This year, EuroBirdwatch 2025 will take place on 4–5 October, bringing together professional ornithologists, local birding clubs, families, and anyone curious about the natural world.

For birders, nature lovers, families, and even those who have never picked up a pair of binoculars before, this weekend offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonder of migration. Across 40+ countries, thousands of participants will gather to count birds, learn about their journeys, and contribute to vital conservation efforts.

At GoToBirding.com, we’re passionate about helping you make the most of your birding adventures. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about EuroBirdwatch 2025, from what makes it special to how to prepare, where to go, and why your participation matters.

What Is EuroBirdwatch? A Brief History

EuroBirdwatch began in 1993, organized by BirdLife International, as a way to connect people to nature and raise awareness about the importance of conserving migratory birds and their habitats. Since then, it has grown into a massive, continent-wide celebration of bird migration.

Each year, EuroBirdwatch takes place on the first weekend of October, coinciding with the peak of autumn migration in Europe. Tens of thousands of people — from seasoned ornithologists to school groups — take part in bird counts, guided walks, educational talks, and conservation workshops.

In 2024, more than 1.2 million birds of over 190 species were recorded by 34 participating BirdLife partners. This year promises to be just as exciting, with even more observers expected to join and potentially new migration trends to uncover.

Key Details for EuroBirdwatch 2025

• Dates: Saturday–Sunday, 4–5 October 2025
• Organized by: BirdLife International and national BirdLife partners
• Locations: Across Europe — in wetlands, nature reserves, parks, coastlines, and even urban green spaces
• Activities: Guided bird counts, nature walks, photography sessions, children’s activities, bird ringing demonstrations, conservation talks, and species recording
• Registration: Free in most countries; some guided events may require prior sign-up

For this year’s event, RIA (Regional/International Aggregated) results must be submitted by Sunday, 5 October, 17:00 CET. A live update of species counts will be posted on the official EuroBirdwatch website and Facebook page, with a press release summarizing the findings released by 20:00 CET.

Why EuroBirdwatch Matters

EuroBirdwatch is much more than a weekend of fun and outdoor activity. It’s a crucial citizen-science project that gathers important data about migratory birds. By pooling thousands of individual observations from across Europe, researchers gain insights into:

• Migration timing: Understanding shifts due to climate change
• Population trends: Identifying species that may be declining
• Habitat use: Pinpointing critical stopover sites that need protection
• Conservation priorities: Providing data to guide national and regional policies

This collective effort helps shape bird conservation strategies in Europe. For example, data collected in previous years has highlighted the importance of wetland habitats for species like waders and geese, reinforcing the need to protect these areas from development or pollution.

For participants, EuroBirdwatch is also about building a sense of connection — to the natural world and to a community of people who share a passion for birds.

How to Take Part in EuroBirdwatch 2025

Getting involved is simple, and every contribution counts. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure you’re ready:

1. Find an event near you:
   Visit EuroBirdwatch.eu to find organized events in your country. BirdLife partners often host guided walks, bird ringing demonstrations, or educational programs for children.
2. Join or organize a bird count:
   If you can’t find an event nearby, you can still participate on your own or with friends and family by visiting your local park, wetland, or nature reserve and recording the birds you see.
3. Record your observations:
   Write down the species you identify and the estimated numbers. For more accuracy and ease of reporting, use apps such as eBird, BirdTrack, or your country’s national bird recording system.
4. Submit your counts:
   Send your results to your local BirdLife partner or upload them through the provided RIA forms before the deadline on Sunday at 17:00 CET.
5. Follow the weekend highlights:
   Throughout the weekend, EuroBirdwatch will share live updates on sightings, tallies, and rare bird alerts. Follow them on social media or check their website to stay connected with the larger community.

Preparing for the Weekend: Gear and Essentials

A successful birdwatching weekend starts with good preparation. Here’s what we recommend:

• Binoculars: A good pair (8×42 or 10×42) of binocular is essential for spotting details.
• Spotting scope: If you’re heading to wetlands or open areas, a spotting scope can help you identify distant waders and waterfowl.
• Field guide or bird ID app: Having a portable guide or using apps like Merlin Bird ID can speed up identification.
• Clothing: Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing; autumn mornings can be chilly but warm up later in the day. Waterproof jackets and sturdy footwear are a must.
• Notebook & pen: For field notes if you prefer to log your observations on paper.
• Snacks & water: Staying energized will keep you focused during long birding sessions.
• Camera: A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens can capture memorable moments and rare species.

What Birds You Might See During EuroBirdwatch 2025

Autumn is one of the most thrilling times for birdwatching in Europe. Millions of birds are on the move, traveling from their northern breeding grounds to warmer southern regions. During EuroBirdwatch 2025, you’ll have the chance to witness this grand natural phenomenon in wetlands, woodlands, farmlands, and even your own garden.

Here’s a closer look at the bird groups you can expect to see and why autumn makes them so special:

Raptors — The Masters of the Skies on the Move

The crisp autumn skies of Europe come alive with migrating raptors, soaring on thermals as they head south to wintering areas in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and beyond.

• Common sightings:
  • Common Buzzards and Western Marsh Harrier — often seen circling low over marshes and fields.
  • Red kites — elegant fork-tailed raptors gliding in small flocks.
  • Ospreys — frequently spotted near lakes and rivers as they pause to hunt for fish before crossing the Mediterranean.
  • Booted Eagle and occasionally Lesser Spotted Eagle in southern and eastern Europe.
• Why autumn is special: Raptors often migrate in groups known as “kettles,” using warm air currents to conserve energy, creating breathtaking aerial displays.
• Where to watch: Open plains, mountain passes, and coastal cliffs are prime spots — look to the sky during late mornings when thermals are strongest.

Waterbirds — Ducks, Geese, and Swans Arriving for the Winter

Autumn migration also brings an influx of waterfowl that settle on Europe’s lakes, rivers, and estuaries for the winter.

• Typical species:
  • Ducks such as Green-winged Teal, Eurasian Wigeon, Northern Pintail, Northern Shoveler, and Gadwall.
  • Geese including Greylag Goose, Greater White-fronted Goose, Taiga Bean-Goose, and Barnacle Goose that arrive in large flocks from northern breeding grounds.
  • Whooper Swan and Mute Swan gathering on larger lakes.
• Why autumn is special: Many wetlands become staging grounds for tens of thousands of ducks and geese resting and feeding together, creating spectacular dawn and dusk “lift-offs.”
• Where to watch: Shallow wetlands, river deltas, and coastal lagoons like Lake Neusiedl, the Danube Delta, and the Wadden Sea.

Waders and Shorebirds — Resting Along the Flyways

For waders and shorebirds, Europe’s wetlands are critical stopovers where they rest and refuel before long journeys to Africa or southern Asia.

• Commonly spotted species:
  • Common Sandpiper, Dunlin, Sanderlings, and Common Snipe probing the mud for invertebrates.
  • Black-tailed Godwit and Bar-tailed Godwit known for their incredible long-distance migrations.
  • Eurasian Curlew and Whimbrel, recognizable by their long, curved bills.
  • Small plovers like the Common Ringed Plover often seen in mixed flocks with other waders.
• Why autumn is special: Some species fly thousands of kilometers nonstop, and seeing them feed frantically at wetlands is a glimpse of their epic journey.
• Where to watch: Mudflats, tidal lagoons, estuaries, and shallow lake shores.

Passerines — The Songbirds of the Autumn Woods

Not all migration happens high above wetlands. Many small songbirds, or passerines, travel through gardens, hedgerows, woodlands, and farmland, often unnoticed by casual observers.

• Species to look out for:
  • Warblers such as Common Chiffchaff and Willow Warbler moving southward.
  • Common Redstart, Spotted Flycatcher, and European Stonechat stopping to feed on insects.
  • Finches (chaffinches, bramblings, siskins) forming loose flocks in fields and woodland edges.
  • Thrushes such as redwings and fieldfares arriving from Scandinavia later in the season.
  • Familiar garden visitors like European Robin becoming more vocal as they establish winter territories.
• Where to watch: Woodland paths, berry-laden shrubs, and even urban gardens during early mornings.

Local Residents — Birds That Stay All Year Round

While migrants steal the show, Europe’s resident species remain active in preparing for the colder months, making them equally interesting to observe.

• Common residents:
  • Woodpeckers (great spotted, green, and black woodpeckers) heard drumming in forests.
  • Tits such as great tits, blue tits, and coal tits busily foraging in mixed flocks.
  • Nuthatches and treecreepers scaling tree trunks in search of insects and seeds.
• Tip for birders: Pay attention to mixed-species flocks — residents often flock together with migrants, offering great opportunities for photography and comparison.

A Season of Movement and Spectacle

EuroBirdwatch coincides with peak autumn migration, meaning you could witness hundreds of species and tens of thousands of individual birds in just a few days at major hotspots. The variety and volume of birdlife during this period is unmatched.

In certain regions, lucky observers might spot rarities such as greater spotted eagles, lesser white-fronted geese, or even unusual vagrants blown in by autumn storms.

Top Birding Hotspots in Europe for EuroBirdwatch

If you’re planning to travel during EuroBirdwatch 2025 or want to discover some of the most iconic birding destinations in Europe, these hotspots offer exceptional opportunities to witness the magic of autumn migration. Each site has its own unique habitat, charm, and specialties — perfect for both beginners and experienced birders.

1. Camargue, France — The Land of Wetlands and Flamingos

The Camargue is one of Europe’s most renowned wetlands, located in the Rhône River delta in southern France. Covering nearly 930 km², it’s a mosaic of lagoons, salt flats, reedbeds, and marshes that support hundreds of bird species.

• Why it’s special: The Camargue is famous for its greater flamingos, which can be seen in large flocks feeding in the shallow waters — an unforgettable sight.
• Species highlights: Expect to see waders such as black-winged stilts, avocets, godwits, sandpipers, and plovers, as well as herons, egrets, and migrating ducks. Raptors such as marsh harriers and ospreys also frequent the area during autumn.
• Best time during EuroBirdwatch: Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light and highest bird activity.
• Extra tip: Bring a spotting scope for distant waders and wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment.

2. Doñana National Park, Spain — A Migration Gateway Between Europe and Africa

Situated in Andalusia, southern Spain, Doñana National Park is one of the most important wetlands in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering over 54,000 hectares, its marshes, dunes, and lagoons form a critical stopover for countless migratory birds on their way to Africa.

• Why it’s special: Doñana lies at the crossroads of two major migratory flyways — the East Atlantic Flyway and the Mediterranean Flyway — making it a vital staging ground for birds traveling between Europe and Africa.
• Species highlights: In October, you may encounter spoonbills, glossy ibises, purple herons, stilts, flamingos, and raptors like booted eagles and red kites. The park is also one of the last strongholds for the rare Spanish imperial eagle.
• Best time during EuroBirdwatch: Midday for soaring raptors; early mornings for waterbirds feeding in the shallows.
• Extra tip: Consider booking a guided tour with local ornithologists to access restricted areas and maximize your bird sightings.

3. Danube Delta, Romania — Europe’s Wild Wetland Paradise

The Danube Delta is the second-largest river delta in Europe and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Spanning over 4,000 km², it’s a labyrinth of channels, reedbeds, marshes, and lakes teeming with birdlife.

• Why it’s special: The delta serves as a critical refueling station for birds migrating between northern Europe and Africa, making it one of the most productive birding areas on the continent.
• Species highlights: During autumn migration, you can observe huge flocks of pelicans (both Dalmatian and great white), herons, cormorants, marsh terns, and thousands of ducks and geese. Migrating raptors such as white-tailed eagles and ospreys also patrol the skies.
• Best time during EuroBirdwatch: Early mornings along river channels and shallow lagoons for large waterbird concentrations.
• Extra tip: Book a small boat excursion with a local guide — some of the best sightings in the delta are only accessible by water.

4. Vistula Lagoon, Poland — A Haven for Waders and Waterfowl

The Vistula Lagoon lies on the border of Poland and Russia (Kaliningrad region) and is part of the Baltic Sea coast. Its shallow waters and mudflats attract immense numbers of migratory waterbirds.

• Why it’s special: The lagoon’s extensive mudflats provide crucial feeding grounds for migrating geese, ducks, swans, and waders. It’s one of the most important staging sites for waterbirds in the Baltic region.
• Species highlights: Look out for bean geese, barnacle geese, whooper swans, golden plovers, dunlins, and curlews. October often brings mixed flocks of tens of thousands of individuals.
• Best time during EuroBirdwatch: Tidal changes expose feeding areas in the mornings and evenings, attracting dense concentrations of waders.
• Extra tip: Dress warmly — the Baltic autumn winds can be chilly — and bring a scope for distant birds on the lagoon.

5. Lake Neusiedl, Austria/Hungary — Reedbed Retreat for Waterfowl

Straddling the border between Austria and Hungary, Lake Neusiedl is a shallow steppe lake surrounded by extensive reedbeds and saline meadows. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime birding destination all year round.

• Why it’s special: Lake Neusiedl serves as a major resting and feeding site for migratory geese, ducks, and shorebirds traveling along the Central European Flyway. Its reedbeds also shelter many species during autumn.
• Species highlights: Expect to see greylag geese, white-fronted geese, teal, pintails, shovelers, ruffs, and stilts, as well as reed-dwelling birds like great reed warblers.
• Best time during EuroBirdwatch: Dawn is magical as geese and ducks lift off in large flocks to feed in surrounding fields.
• Extra tip: The national park has well-maintained observation towers and trails, perfect for photographers and families.

Pro Tip for Travelers

If you’re planning to travel for EuroBirdwatch, book accommodation early, as popular birding hotspots often fill up quickly during the migration season. Also, consider joining local bird clubs or hiring guides for access to the best viewing spots and insider knowledge about current bird movements.

How to Make the Most of Your Birding

Here are extra tips to ensure your birding weekend is enjoyable and productive:

• Arrive early and stay late: Birds are most active at dawn and dusk.
• Be patient and observant: Migration can come in waves; some birds appear suddenly in large flocks.
• Move slowly and quietly: Sudden movements or loud sounds can scare birds away.
• Work in teams: Birding with others helps spot more species and keeps the experience social.
• Keep track of weather: Migration patterns often shift with wind direction and temperature.

After the Weekend: Keep the Birding Spirit Alive

EuroBirdwatch may last just two days, but the experience can spark a lifelong passion for birding and conservation. After the event:

• Review the final reports published on EuroBirdwatch.eu to see which countries reported the highest numbers and rarest species.
• Share your photos, checklists, and highlights online to inspire others to participate next year.
• Join your local BirdLife partner or a regional birding club to continue contributing to citizen science year-round.
• Consider investing in better gear or field guides if you plan to keep birding regularly.
• Plan your next adventure — perhaps the spring migration or a winter bird count.

Final Thoughts: Be Part of Something Bigger

EuroBirdwatch 2025 is more than just birdwatching — it’s a collective celebration of wildlife, science, and our connection to the natural world. Every bird you spot adds a valuable piece to the puzzle of migration.

By participating, you help protect species and habitats for future generations. So grab your binoculars, invite friends and family, and head outdoors on 4–5 October 2025. Together, we can make this year’s EuroBirdwatch the most impactful yet.