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Canal et Port de Gletterens

Fribourg  >  Switzerland

Brilliant little hotspot in the largest reed bed area in Switzerland, a kind of mini version of the Fanel.

Added* by Peter Wittemann
Most recent update 11 ledna 2025
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Description

The canal and harbour of Gletterens lies in the middle of the Grand Cariçaie, the largest reed bed in Switzerland, which runs along the south-eastern shore of Lake Neuchâtel. Over 250 species have already been recorded here. Similar rarities have been sighted as in nearby Fanel, such as kormorán malý, chaluha velká, kulík mořský, vodouš štíhlý, sněhule severní, rybák rajský, bekasina větší and rybák malý.

The area is characterised by reed beds, alluvial forests, sandy beaches and lakes. Swimming is permitted on the beach, which is why the early hours of the morning are usually best for observation. The area can be walked through in a few minutes - but it also provides hours of ornithological pleasure.

The reed bed is considered one of the best places in Switzerland to observe sýkořice vousatá. The bekasina otavní breeds here, as do rákosník velký, ledňáček říční, cvrčilka slavíková, bukáček malý, and moták pochop.

The forest is a breeding ground for ostříž lesní, kukačka obecná, Žluva hajní, and various woodpeckers, notably the strakapoud malý. On the lake you can observe terns, mostly rybák obecný , but also rare species.

The site is also attractive in autumn and winter, when jeřáb popelavý and dřemlík tundrový are resting, and with a bit of luck you might spot a polák kaholka on the lake or a bukač velký wintering in the reeds.

However, the best time is undoubtedly the end of April and the first two weeks of May. poštolka rudonohá regularly benefit from the insects on offer during their migration and waders, like kulík písečný, jespák písečný, kulík mořský, kamenáček pestrý, and many others feed on the hatching mayflies.

Details

Access

The Canal et Port de Gletterens area can be reached by bus 544 from Fribourg, although this line does not have ornithologist-friendly timetables. The bus stop Gletterens, lac is 5 minutes from the beach. There is also a parking nearby. Press P on the map for directions to a parking spot. The area can be explored on foot and is wheelchair accessible.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Wetland , Reedbeds , Beach , Lake

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring , Spring migration

Route

Wide path

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

Extra info

Do NOT leave the paths, as the area around is very vulnerable and strictly protected.

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

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