Sweden's Premier Bird Observatory

Ottenby fågelstation sits at the very southern tip of Öland, where migrating birds from across Scandinavia gather before crossing the Baltic Sea. Founded in 1946 and operated by BirdLife Sweden, it is one of the most important bird ringing stations in Europe — ringing 15,000-25,000 birds each year. An extraordinary 377 species have been recorded here.

Next to the observatory stands Långe Jan, Sweden’s tallest lighthouse at 41.6 metres. First lit in 1785, it offers magnificent views from the top after climbing 197 steps.

What to See

• Guided ringing tours (~40 min) where staff show you freshly caught birds up close and explain the ringing process. Bookable 10:00-16:00 in summer.
• Naturum Ottenby — a free visitor centre with exhibitions on wildlife, geology, and cultural history.
• Långe Jan lighthouse — climbable in summer (small entry fee, approximately 50 SEK).
• Fågel Blå restaurant and BirdLife bookshop on site.

Best Seasons

The air is most alive with birds in April (spring migration) and September-October (autumn passage). Late summer is excellent for shorebirds on the coastal meadows. The observatory is active from mid-March through mid-November.

Practical Details

• Distance from the house: ~78 km south, about 1 hour 15 minutes by car
• Address: Ottenby 401, 386 64 Degerhamn
• Ringing tour: 65 SEK/adult, 45 SEK/child (under 16), minimum group 350 SEK
• Naturum: Free entry, summer hours roughly 10:30-17:00

Good to Know

• Bring binoculars if you have them — the coastal meadows and shoreline reward a closer look.
• Plan for 2-3 hours to see the ringing, climb the lighthouse, and explore the reserve.
• The surrounding Ottenby nature reserve (995 hectares) has hiking trails through coastal meadows and alvar landscape.
• Book ringing tours by phone: +46 485 66 10 93.

Make it a full southern Öland day — combine with Eketorps borg (15 km north) and Kalkbrottet Grönhögen for swimming.

Website: ottenby.se