Saaremaa Nature Tours' Black Grouse Birdwatching

The black grouse mating season is a major spring event. We invite you to observe and photograph this powerful spectacle from our hide! The grouse hide is a two-person weatherproof plastic dome located deep in the bog on the UNESCO West Estonian Islands Biosphere Reserve.

The first black grouse cocks start vocalizing more actively and recalling their dance steps as early as March. The culmination of the mating season arrives in April when the female grouse begin to visit the field. In May, mating subsides due to warmer weather.

The first birds arrive at the field every morning before dawn, and during the most active time, courtship displays continue for a couple of hours after sunrise.

No special equipment is needed for birdwatching. If possible, bring a camera to take photos and binoculars. There are two options for observation – we can take you to the hide in the evening to wait for the morning, or go early in the morning before sunrise.

Take a break from the city and experience one of the most primal experiences in nature!