18th Krummhörn Migratory Bird Days

Bird Migration on the North Sea Coast: A World-Class Natural Spectacle

The Krummhörn is located in the far northwest of Lower Saxony, directly on the North Sea and at the edge of the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park. Every autumn, hundreds of thousands of waterfowl and waders rest here on their way from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to their wintering grounds in Africa or Southern Europe. Brent geese, pintail ducks, golden plovers, and sanderlings form impressive flocks over the dikes. The Migratory Bird Days have made this natural spectacle accessible to a broad audience since 2009 and are now among the most important ornithological events in Northern Germany.

Guided Excursions and Expert Guidance

The focus of the nine festival days is on guided excursions led by experienced ornithologists and certified mudflat guides. The tours lead along the dikes, through the salt marshes in front of Leyhörn, and to the freshwater reservoirs that offer migratory birds peace and food. Binoculars and spotting scopes are sometimes provided, but sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing are essential. Families with children will find a program specifically tailored to young ones, with fun identification exercises and an introduction to the world of birds.

Lectures, Films, and Encounters with Experts

Evening lectures in the community centers and inns of the Krummhörn round off the program. Researchers and filmmakers report on their journeys to the Arctic breeding grounds, on satellite telemetry projects, and on the challenges of bird conservation in the 21st century. The Krummhörn-Greetsiel Tourism GmbH organizes the festival in cooperation with the Greetsiel National Park House and volunteer ornithologists from the region.

Greetsiel as the Festival Center

The picturesque harbor village of Greetsiel, with its twin windmills and historic harbor, forms the center of the Migratory Bird Days. Many excursions start from here, lectures and meetings take place here, and after a long day in the fresh sea air, visitors can enjoy regional specialties such as shrimp rolls or East Frisian tea.