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Description
The Tomateninseln are a stretch of beach and gravel banks that vary in size (or disappear completely) depending on the water level of the River Rhine: When the water levels are normal to low, there are wide expanses of gravel banks along part of the shore that provide a great habitat or stopover for feeding or migrating birds. During periods of high water, the islands are completely covered and the access to the site is cut-off due to flooding along the final stretch off the access road.
These dynamic changes and the fantastic panoramic viewpoint make this a great place to observe birds (especially in relation to seasonal conditions and habitat changes)!
Birds that can be seen well here all year round are Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Great Cormorant, Grey Heron, Black-headed Gull and White Wagtail. With a bit of luck, Common Sandpiper, Common Kingfisher and Great Egret can also be seen.
In spring and summer, Common Tern and Little Ringed Plover are usually present. During the summer months, large flocks of Barn Swallow, House Martin and Sand Martin gather to glide and feed above the river. With a bit of luck (at least for us birdwatchers), this feeding frenzy can also attract a Eurasian Hobby.
In winter and early spring small groups of Goosander and Common Goldeneye can be observed swimming and diving in the river, while Water Pipit often feed among the stones and pebbles.
The site has a good record of attracting a good range of passing ducks, gulls and terns, some quite rare. These include Long-tailed Duck, Little Gull, Common Gull, Iceland Gull, Caspian Tern, Black Tern and Whiskered Tern.
Favourable water levels also attract passing Waders in spring or autumn. Over the years a great variety of Waders have been observed here: Common Ringed Plover, Whimbrel, Ruff, Dunlin, Little Stint, Green Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Common Redshank and Spotted Redshank.
The surrounding alluvial woodland plays host to a good range of songbirds (Woodpeckers, Thrushes, Tits, Finches etc. and Warblers in summer).
Details
Access
The area is easily accessible by car or bike, however it can be cut off during seasonal high water periods!
There are a number of parking spaces that offer great views without having to actually leave the car park! This makes it a great site for elderly birders, families or anyone with mobility issues.