Estonian landscape is as diverse and wild as the birds and animals that call it home. As one of the least inhabited countries in Europe that also has large forest areas, Estonia is home to European lynx, of which it has the highest density in Europe. wolverines, wild boar, elk, 14 native bats and the national animal, the grey wolf. You can spot grey and striped seals, plus rare sea and wetland birds in here, together with the true king of the North, the brown bear.

Did you know?

Estonia is among the top three bird watching destinations in Europe for the number of species spotted here. With over 380 species of birds spotted in Estonia annually.

Estonia’s indented coastline, numerous islands, forests, bogs and other diverse cultural landscapes are all great spots for bird-watching. The best time for bird-watching is during their migration when millions of birds fill the skies.

Birding season begins as early as in March. Spring migration culminates in mid-May and the bird observation season winds down by mid-June. The autumn migration tends to be more modest, but draws enthusiasts to Estonia in September and October as well. Thanks to the large forest areas and suitable habitats, six species of eagle can be seen in Estonia as well as 8 of 9 European woodpecker species.

Estonia is a wild treat for busy city dwellers looking to stretch their limbs and breathe in the world’s cleanest air. As the country is small, you are never more than an hour away from an epic adventure or from a deep forest exploration. About 50% of Estonia’s territory is covered in forests and there is nearly 3,800 km of coastline. You can see what we mean when we say this place is wild, making WILDLIFE DREAMS come true!

All this makes Estonia a truly inspirational place for exploring wildlife that is now less accessible or even extinct in many other European countries.

Five seasons of wildlife spotting

SPRING. 

Western Estonia becomes a popular birdwatching destination, attracting curious binocular-equipped visitors from around the world. Estonia is among the top three European bird watching destinations for the number of species spotted and the season can begin already in March. It usually culminates with a spring migration in mid-May and winds down by mid-June.

SUMMER. 

Summer transforms the winter wonderland into a lush summer paradise with white nights. These are the perfect months for hiking, camping, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, and seal watching.

AUTUMN. 

Berry picking in bogs and bear spotting tours are what autumns are all about. Taking in the autumn colours also gives you the time to smell the unique marsh plants. Bogs are the oldest organic landscapes of Estonia, with some of them reaching up to 10,000 years of age. The best time for bear watching in autumn is from mid-August to the end of October.

WINTER. 

Winter’s snow carpets provide an ideal setting for animal tracking, rendering the wildlife that lives in Estonia’s forests far more noticeable. Even when viewed from a distance, the majestic moose is a sight to behold against the white backdrop of the frosty season.