April has started a bit rocky, with migration slowly picking up, and with many species still to arrive to Croatia. Nonetheless, we had a job to do and as soon as the weather allowed, we were out!
Vransko jezero Nature Park
First destination for the month was Vransko lake Nature Park. The biggest lake in Croatia, known to many as one of the best places for birding. Many bird species call this place their home, many use it only during winter, but even more migrate through on their way to their homes in the north. The reedbeds on the western side of the Nature Park are a part of an ornithological reserve, where many Pygmy Cormorants, with some herons (mostly Purple and Grey) have their nests. At the southwestern part of the lake, there is an educational boardwalk for general public to observe birds in their natural habitat from fairly close. During migration, this is one of the best places to see waders and terns, as well as ducks in the winter.
Western Cattle Egret in breeding plumage.
Outside the Nature Park borders lies Ravni Kotari, another important Natura 2000 area. It encompasses the flat, agricultural lands around the Park, going almost as far north as Pag island. The agricultural fields in the vicinity of Vransko lake are great for following the migration as well as finding some nice Mediterranean species.
During our visit, Vransko lake was experiencing high water levels, so most of our waders were not there, but we managed to spot a small flock of Glossy Ibis. Moustached Warblers were still heard singing in the reeds, together with first Sadge Warblers. Reeds are a great place for foraging and breeding for many species of the Rail family, and we were lucky enough to record several Water Rails calling from the reeds. Pygmy Cormorants, Eurasian Coots and Purple Herons were seen flying over the water or resting around the reeds.
Pygmy Cormorant in breeding plumage.
Since we began our day early in Ravni Kotari, we were greeted by the melodic songs of numerous Rock Partridges. They perched atop singular rocks in the fields, on stonewalls dividing the hills, and even on random rocks scattered across the landscape. We recorded at least 5 singing males that morning! In addition to them, we also spotted three Grey Partridges. Unlike the Rock Partridges, Grey Partridges prefer less rocky terrain, favoring agricultural habitats instead. Among the three Grey Partridges we observed, one was presumed to be male.
“Stay quiet, they are looking!” – Rock Partridge in Ravni Kotari.
Walking through the field, we were paying close attention to raptors and singing songbirds. Quite a few Montagu’s Harriers were spotted, with 3 adult male birds and 2 adult females, and one pair even performed a courtship flight! Zitting Cisticolas and Eurasian Skylarks are unavoidable here (not that we wished to avoid them!), and we were pleasantly surprised to find some Greater Whitethroats and Lesser Whitethroats singing in the shrubs in the cultivated, agricultural fields. Not that far away from them, a typical Mediterranean maquis shrubland, another warbler was singing and calling for attention – Sardinian Warbler, a true representation of a Maquis shrubland if you ask me.
Plitvice lakes National Park
Brezničko polje, Plitvice lakes National Park.
After visiting Vransko lake Nature Park, we were just waiting for the perfect opportunity to go to Plitvice lakes National Park. It is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Croatia, praised by many for its gorgeous lakes, waterfalls and stunning views. However, the lakes area is only a relatively small part of the National Park. The region boasts some of the oldest forests in the country, alongside open and mosaic habitats. During our visit, we primarily explored the open and mosaic habitats, as well as the forested areas.
Tree Pipit singing.
Early April can be fairly cold in higher altitudes, so birds tend to be quiet and do their best to keep warm, instead of focusing on singing and displaying to attract mates. This time, however, the weather was perfect for experiencing spring songs and to enjoy birding. In the open habitats, Tree Pipits and Corn Buntings, as well as Eurasian Skylarks were filling the air with their song, with so many of them that it was a challenge to hear anything else but them. First Whinchats were also here, although not singing, as they have an extended migration, with some individuals migrating well into late May. Common Cuckoo was heard singing, as well as the Eurasian Hoopoe, one after another, almost as if they were arguing what sounds better, “cuck-oo” or “hoo-poo-poo”!
Migrating Whinchat perched.
Forests were just as loud as the meadows. Great Tits and Coal Tits, as well as the Eurasian Treecreeper were singing from every direction, making it a challenge to count all of them. But what a good challenge it is! A few singing Collared Flycatchers were heard, but try as we did, we couldn’t see them at all. They tend to stay high in the canopy, and with a tall and old growth forest such as the ones in Plitvice lakes National Park, it can be a challenge to see them until they find a nest, usually around the mid-section of the tree. While the weather was nice, temperatures were still fairly low, and hearing the beautiful and powerful song of a Eurasian Wren made it all better. All in all, a great beginning to the migration and the month of April!
Eurasian Treecreeper trying to sneak up the tree unnoticed.
If you’re feeling inspired by our adventures and the diverse birdlife Croatia has to offer, why not embark on your own birding journey with us? Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, Croatia Birding offers tailored experiences to suit your interests and skill level. Explore the stunning landscapes of Vransko lake Nature Park, where you can observe an array of bird species in their natural habitat. Join us and discover the beauty of Croatian birdlife firsthand! Venture into the scenic area of Ravni Kotari, where you can encounter the Rock Partridges and the graceful flight of Montagu’s Harriers against the backdrop of picturesque countryside. And don’t miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, where you can marvel at the rich avian diversity amidst stunning landscapes of lakes, waterfalls, and ancient forests.
Get in touch with us at contact@croatiabirding.com or through our website’s contact form, and let’s embark on an unforgettable birding adventure together!
