Morning Birding along Lake Geneva / Excursion November 2021
Our guide Lucas meets our guests at 8:00 am, at sunrise, for a new edition of our birding excursion dedicated to the birds of Lake Geneva. The excursion begins at the new Eaux-Vives beach.
It is a beautiful morning in November. The temperature is quite cool, the sky is gray, and there is no wind at all. Excellent conditions for bird watching and bird photography. The purpose of this excursion is to teach participants how to better identify species and learn about their biology and behavior. All in a pleasant and easy setting.
By taking the time, we made some great encounters while staying in a small area. A first moment with a group of Black-headed Gulls and a couple of Mute Swans allowed Lucas to give precious advice to our 3 participants so that they develop their creativity and improve their images.
Continuing on our way, we observed the White Wagtail and the Gray Wagtail. In winter, the latter tends to approach lakes.
One of our participants then found a Gray Heron fishing very close to the pontoon. A superb observation for our group!
Continuing around the new beach, we arrive at the reed bed. Since its creation not long ago, this reed bed has gradually become a very good birding spot in the Canton of Geneva. And this very quickly! Indeed, barely a few weeks after the reeds were planted, we could already observe typical species such as the Eurasian Reed Warbler. The birds quickly got used to this new haven of peace.
That morning we found Great Crested Grebes fishing. The water is so clear and static that we could see them moving underwater from the pontoon. A magnificent spectacle. The Great Crested Grebe has its legs positioned at the rear end of its body, which allows it to propel itself better underwater and thus be more efficient at chasing fish.
We also saw House Sparrows, fighting Eurasian Coots, Little Grebes, Mute Swans, and a few wintering ducks like the Tufted Duck.
Finally, the icing on the cake was the appearance of a sublime Common Kingfisher. Suddenly, the blue arrow landed on the reed bed, first going to perch on a pole quite far away. Then it flew in our direction to land on another stake much closer to us. Magical! It was the first time that Matthew, one of our participants, observed this extraordinary bird. Something to delight our guide :)
In an urban environment, birds are often less shy, which can therefore provide wonderful encounters for those who open their eyes and ears. This birding tour in Geneva was a real success. We run this excursion several times a year, as almost all seasons are interesting for viewing. Do not hesitate to consult the dates of our next excursion "Morning Birding along Lake Geneva" if you wish to participate!
Jonathan
Guide Salva Fauna
