One of the main reasons that many visit Skadar Lake is for the bird watching opportunities. The lake is considered to be one of the best five places in all of Europe for bird watching during the winter months and there are numerous bird species to be seen during the warmer months, as well. Skadar Lake is known by many as the European Bird Airport. Its location makes it perfect for housing a number of birds. In fact, the lake has registered more than 280 bird species to date.
Of these, more than 30 percent are wintering birds. More than 20 percent are nesting birds and in all, about 150,000 birds spend the winter months on Skadar Lake. During migration, there are millions of birds that pass over the lake. Skadar Lake has three protected areas that keep birds safe. Panceva oka offers a mix of nesting birds as well as herons, pelicans, gulls and terns. Omerova gorica is the most important gray heron colony in the lake and you can see various nesting terns and pelicans on occasion at Grmozur.
Many avid bird watchers visit Skadar Lake National Park to see the dalmatian pelican. The islands around the lake offer various vegetation that appeals to a number of birds and natural lake plants help to feed the birds, as well. Many bird nests are located near open water. Some other colonies can be found around the lake, as well, in the reserve Crni zar. This region offers a colony of heron among the water lilies and reed. Grmozur is a rocky island that is overgrown in the center with vegetation which is very appealing to area pelicans. Pelicans nest on the pebbly ground just a few meters away from water.
Those who plan a trip to the area for bird watching should note that the best time for bird watching is early in the morning. This is because the water is calm and there is not much lake traffic in the form of boats and other vessels.
There are a number of companies that will help to equip you for your bird watching experience on Skadar Lake. Bird watching tours typically include a traditional wooden boat complete with a captain who will take you to the prime areas to see birds. You also receive binoculars and brochures about the different species of birds that can be found in the lake.
The duration of your bird watching tour will depend on the location as well as the touring company that you choose. Different companies offer different touring prices and amenities. A typical pelican tour for instance could last as long as five hours and cost around 25€ per hour per person but again, this will vary widely depending on the company that you use and the birds that you are most excited to see. Bird watching on Skadar Lake is a favorite pastime for many and has become quite a popular outdoor activity for those visiting Montenegro. To learn more about tours that are available, you can check out any of the touring company websites that are located near Skadar Lake.
