Bird-watching
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Parikkala is one of inland Finland's richest areas for bird species. Through the ages, almost 300 different species have been observed. Every year more than 10,000 visitors come to the bird-watching sites of Parikkala. The best-known destination for ornithologists is the internationally renowned Siiklahti Bay of Lake Simpele.
A different site every day
In Parikkala's bird-watching area, Lintuinmaa, Siikalahti Bay is the best-known site and the Number One location from a point of view of conservation. In addition to Siikalahti Bay, the region has many other sites worth visiting. The natural environment of Lintuinmaa is changeable and diverse. In addition to lush thickets that are home to nocturnal singers, lakes and beautiful rural scenery, the area also has the ancient forests of Salpausselkä, where such species as Siberian jays and three-toed woodpeckers live.
The ornithological value of the bodies of water in the area is proven by the fact that the whole of Lake Simpele and and the lakes of Pien- and Suur-Rautjärvi belong to the FinIba network (Finnish Important Bird Areas). The best areas are also part of the Natura conservation programme.
In spring, it is worth visiting the bird-watching towers, nature trails and extensive meadows in between to watch the migration. On the best days for migration, from our towers you'll see tens of thousands of Arctic water birds heading north.
Summer nights offer an unforgettable avian concerto, when a vast number of nightingales and warblers perform their repertoire in the groves and meadow thickets. In summer, wetlands and forests swarm with life, as new generations of birds grow up under the watchful eye of their mothers.
In autumn, ducks, cranes and geese gather in huge flocks all over Parikkala. At the same time, in the sky, you can see one V-shaped flock after another heading south.
In winter, nature can offer some wonderful experiences. On a ski trek, you might even get a glimpse of the rare white-backed woodpecker! On early winter nights, you can head off into the dense forest to listen to the owls.
By combining the bird-watching sites on the south coast of Finland, the Parikkala region and North Karelia, it is possible to see almost all of the country's most interesting species of birds. You will miss only those that live in the northernmost parts of Finland. Just 200 km to the north of Parikkala, you can see the red-flanked bluetail. On the way up there, you might spot a willow grouse or grasshopper warbler.
