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Description
The port of Chevroux cuts right through the largest reed area in Switzerland, the Grande Cariçaie on the eastern shore of Lake Neuchâtel. The geographical layout is similar to that in nearby Gletterens, Estavayer or Yvonand, shaped by four habitat types: riparian forests (1) transition into reeds (2) and then into the lake (3). The fourth habitat is the park-like pier (4), which - as in the other places - features a marina and a bathing beach. Worth mentioning is the somewhat hidden platform that offers a good view of the reeds (including a colony of Great Cormorant).
The species you can observe here (in total, 225 are recorded) are also comparable to those at the other sites: the forest is home to Common Cuckoo and Golden Oriole, from the reeds you’ll hear Bearded Tit, Savi's Warbler, Little Bittern and Great Reed Warbler, the transition zone provides some space for Common Sandpiper, and on the water you’ll see various ducks and Great Crested Grebe. Common Tern breed some years and can be observed on the pilings. Black Redstart nests on the buildings and Common Redstart in the bushes. The pier offers a good spot to watch waders and birds of prey migrating along the lake during the right periods.
There’s not much space for resting birds though; in Chevroux, recreational use dominates. If you can choose, you’ll probably prefer the shores at Gletterens, Estavayer, Yvonand or of course the two great reserves at Yverdon (south) or the Fanel / Chablais de Cudrefin (north). Worth highlighting is the pier, which extends far into the lake and gives a good overview of the area. Especially from October to March there are chances for interesting winter visitors: Red-necked Grebe and Red-breasted Merganser are reported regularly, the rare Greater Scaup quite often. There is one record each of rarities like Pomarine Skua, Velvet Scoter and Bewick's Swan. In November 2021 and 2022, a Snow Bunting was observed.
Details
Access
The port of Chevroux is located on the eastern shore of Lake Neuchâtel. The entire area is wheelchair accessible. It’s best reached by bus from Payerne. Local parking spaces are scarce.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Wetland , Reedbeds , Lake , BeachConditions
FlatCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Winter , Spring migrationRoute
Wide path , Paved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , WheelchairBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
If you’re birding here, you’ll usually find yourself alone among recreational visitors; an early morning visit is recommended.