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Description
Opened in 2014, Parc du Heyritz is a relatively new feature of Strasbourg. In September 2024, it became the first of the city's parks to be awarded "Refuge LPO" status as part of an ongoing collaboration between the local council and France's League for the Protection of Birds. A number of floating islands have been created to provide a habitat for a variety of aquatic birds to build their nests, and a pontoon has been constructed over the water to give visitors great viewing opportunities.
Parc du Heyritz is not only a wonderful place for introducing children to ornithology, it's an underrated birdwatching destination in its own right, close to the heart of Strasbourg. The most notable residents, and owners of some of the most peculiar feet that the avian world has to offer, are Blishøne and Rørhøne. They're joined by a particularly tame Fiskehejre and a family of Nilgås, as well as both Toppet Lappedykker and Lille Lappedykker, and a steady passage of Skarv. In winter it's worth heading a little further towards Rive Etoile to see the visiting Troldand too.
Hættemåge and Middelhavs-sølvmåge are permanent guests, as are Sortkrage, Råge, Solsort and Stær. The trees near to the water also provide a home for a number of smaller birds including Korttået Træløber, Musvit and Blåmejse. With a little luck, it may be possible to see raptors - Tårnfalk, Spurvehøg and Musvåge - at different times of the year.
Details
Access
Parc du Heyritz is located south of the city center of Strasbourg, along the Canal du Rhône au Rhin and near the Hôpital Civil. There are car parks at Rive Etoile and the Hôpital Civil, but it's probably easier to walk or take the tram to Etoile-Bourse (lines A and D).
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , River , Reedbeds , Scattered trees and bushes , Pond , Park , City/villageConditions
FlatCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
All year roundRoute
Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
You can turn this into a longer walk by carrying on past the Mosque and following the River Ill. That's more worthwhile in the springtime when you may be able to find a number of passerines in the trees along the river.