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Description
The Bank of Major Gavrilovic, colloquially called Dorcolski kej (Dorcol Quay), is possibly the best winter wildfowling spot in the city.
Highlight species: Goosander, Red-breasted Merganser, Smew, Red-crested Pochard, Greater Scaup, Velvet Scoter, Red-throated Diver and Black-throated Diver. These days (winter 2025) look out for the Red-necked Grebe, Slavonian Grebe, Long-tailed Duck, plus American Ring-necked Duck. There is a breeding pair of White-tailed Eagle at the Veliko Ratno Island and they can be seen year-round, but the best chances are in winter, when they hunt ducks around the island. Also, about 4000 Pygmy Cormorant overwinter in the city in recent years (down from 7000 15 years ago).
In late February and March, the only duck species that does not overwinter here is heading back – the Garganey. By the end of March, Black Stork are back (they will be noticeable on autumn migration in late September and October, too), as well as Black-crowned Night Heron. In March and November Common Crane are a possibility.
Photos by Josip Saric and Dragan Simic.
Details
Access
You can park nearby (click on a P in the map for directions to a parking) and then explore further on foot. The quay is good for walking, cycling, wheelchairs/mobility equipment users, and strollers.
Reachable by public busses 79 & 24.
Terrain and Habitat
River , Mud flatsConditions
Flat , Dry , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
Autumn , WinterBest time to visit
WinterRoute
Paved road , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Beside a few small flocks by the bank, most of the birds will be in shallows by the Veliko Ratno Island, some 400+ metres away, which calls for a scope.
No need to hurry in the morning because there is often mist hanging above the water. It happened to me that there wasn't even a trace of fog in the city, so I went down to the river - which then I couldn't see at all, not to mention the birds. There is always some breeze over the river, which is very unpleasant in winter - don't forget a warm hat and gloves.