Bird watching IN NORWAY

Eurasian Curlew  -  not an uncommon species in the area
Tekstboks: The Beech woods at Vollom, just north of Seim came after the last ice age. Spreading through Denmark and Sweden, the tree soon reached Oslofjord. From there, the seeds floated north until it reached Lindås. At that time most of area was tree covered, and the Beech, which was one of the last species of tree to arrive in Norway, had no doubt to fight for its existence. Thankfully it survived, but it spread no further, making the Beech woods at Vollom, the most northerly in the world. Leaving the botanical interest behind, the woodlands provide nesting sites, food and shelter for a host of species. During the winter months the woodlands are bare, but far from lifeless. The small populations of Great Tit, Marsh Tit and Eurasian Nuthatch are just some of the species you will find. As spring arrives, the woods turn a lush green and the first songs can be heard. One of these may come from the Wren. The woods with their thickets, and rich vegetation are ideal for this species, often making it difficult to find. Song Thrush and Redwing however are not. Both these species are amongst the first of the spring migrants to arrive, and both can be seen singing from an exposed tree top. It isn't until the warblers arrive however that the area is at its best. Northern Chiffchaff is usually the first to arrive, with its characteristic "chiff-chaff-chiff-chaff" call being a sure sign that spring has arrived. Though this species is not uncommon, it is outnumbered by the Willow Warbler which is surely one of the commonest species to be found. Other warblers that can be found include Icterine Warbler, Common Whitethroat and Blackcap. The woods also provide perfect habitat for the Wood Warbler, but this species is scarce in the county with only a few observations each year, never the less, you should keep a lookout just in case. Tree Pipit, Hedge Accentor, Common Chaffinch and Common Bullfinch should be a lot easier to find. Always be on the lookout for the unexpected,  Red-breasted Flycatcher has been recorded in the area. Away from the Beech Woods, Hodneland provides the visiting birder with a range of habitats, and a good selection of species. In between areas of rough grassland and farmland you will find both coniferous woodlands and some areas of deciduous, consisting mostly of Silver Birch. The coniferous woods can also classed into two, with areas of natural pine, as well as areas of planted spruce.  North of the area lies Sævråsvåg, which will give you access to Austfjorden. To the south you will find lake Nordrevatn. Though Sævråsvåg is quite a few miles from the open sea there could be Common Eider. Otherwise look out for Red-breasted Merganser at all times of the year. During the spring and autumn migrations many Red-throated Divers pass along the coast so keep an eye open for this species too, though not common it has been recorded. Gull numbers vary through the year though Herring and Greater Black-backed Gull are resident, while the Lesser Black-backed Gull arrives in the spring, as does the Common Tern.  Moving away from the fjord, areas with natural pine are always worth a visit. Species like Crested Tit and Common and Parrot Crossbills can be found in this type of habitat. The pine woods will also hold some of the commoner species, Willow Tit and Goldcrest are both resident, while such species as the Spotted Flycatcher is a migrant. Check areas of rough grassland and farmland, if only for the commoner species. Meadow Pipit is characteristic for this type of habitat, while Sky Lark can be found in some areas. Northern Wheatear are seen on passage and may breed in the area, along with Whinchat. Some areas may also hold Northern Lapwing and Eurasian Curlew.  Lastly, lake Nordrevatn, and other wetland areas in the region. Mallard is resident all year round, being joined by Common Teal in the spring. Both Tufted Duck and Common Goldeneye are common ducks in the region, with large flocks congregating in the sheltered fjords during the winter months. Other than wildfowl, some waders may be found in the wetland areas. Common Snipe may spend the winter months in the area, while both Common Redshank and Common Sandpiper arrive in spring. Otherwise other waders such as European Golden Plover, Dunlin, Ruff and Greenshank have been recorded in neighbouring regions, so there is always a chance of seeing them at Lindås. How To Get There: Situated about 40 km north of Bergen. Follow the main E39 route towards Knarvik. After crossing the toll bridge follow the road signs for Knarvik. To get to the Beech woods at Vollom follow route 57. Just before Herland/Herlands tunnel turn off to the left, following the signs for Seim and Hopland. At Hopland there are roads to follow on both sides of Lurefjorden, so it is just to explore the area. To get to Sævråsvåg continue north on route 57 to Vågseidet, here you turn right and follow the signs for Sævråsvåg. To check the Hodneland area, follow the same road to Sævråsvåg, a few kilometre before Sævråsvåg there is a road to your right. This is a circular road taking in Hodneland. There are many paths in the area, or you can follow the road back to Eikanger, stopping and checking possible habitats on your way. At Eikanger you can follow route 39, back to Knarvik. Click here for map  

Lindås

Great Black-backed Gull  -  a resident species.

Common Redshank

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