Kolovesi National Park

Birds

Kolovesi National Park is also home to a rich variety of bird species, thriving in its forested and aquatic habitats. Here are some of the most notable birds found in the park.

Black-throated Loon
One of the most iconic birds of Finland’s lakes, the black-throated loon is known for its haunting calls that echo across Kolovesi’s waters. It nests on small islets and hunts fish with remarkable precision.

White-tailed Eagle
A powerful predator, the white-tailed eagle is one of the largest birds of prey in Europe. With its broad wingspan, it soars above the park’s lakes, scanning for fish and waterfowl.

Osprey
Often seen hovering above the water before diving to catch fish, the osprey is a remarkable bird of prey. Kolovesi’s clean lakes provide an ideal hunting ground for this species.

Common Goldeneye
A striking diving duck with bright yellow eyes, the common goldeneye nests in tree cavities near water. Males perform impressive courtship displays in spring, involving dramatic head movements.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl
One of the largest owls in the world, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a nocturnal predator that hunts small mammals and birds. Its deep hoots can sometimes be heard at night in the park.

Western Capercaillie
A large woodland grouse, the Western capercaillie is known for its spectacular mating displays. Males produce a series of clicking sounds to attract females during the breeding season.

Black Woodpecker
With its striking black plumage and red crown, the black woodpecker is a key species in Finland’s forests. It drills large holes in trees, which later serve as nesting sites for other birds.

Whooper Swan
Finland’s national bird, the whooper swan is a majestic species known for its loud, trumpet-like calls. It nests near quiet lakes and ponds, often forming lifelong pair bonds.

Common Crane
This elegant wading bird is a symbol of Finnish wilderness. Known for its elaborate courtship dances, the common crane is often seen foraging in wetland areas during migration seasons.

Tengmalm’s Owl
A small and elusive owl, Tengmalm’s owl prefers dense forests where it hunts rodents at night. Its distinctive, soft hoots can sometimes be heard in the park after sunset.

Kolovesi National Park offers a unique chance to observe these incredible species in their natural habitat, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike.

Kolovesi National Park, located in Finland, is known for its pristine lakeland scenery, ancient rock paintings, and rich biodiversity. The park is a haven for wildlife, particularly species adapted to its clean waters and lush forests. Below are some of the most notable species found in Kolovesi National Park.

Saimaa Ringed Seal
One of the rarest seals in the world, the Saimaa ringed seal is endemic to Finland’s freshwater lakes. This critically endangered species thrives in the park’s undisturbed waters, using small ice caves in winter for pupping. Conservation efforts are crucial to its survival.

European Otter
A skilled swimmer and hunter, the European otter is often seen gliding through the park’s waters in search of fish. Its presence is an indicator of the region’s excellent water quality and healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Eurasian Lynx
This elusive predator roams the forests of Kolovesi, preying on small to medium-sized mammals. The Eurasian lynx is rarely seen due to its solitary nature, but its tracks are sometimes found along remote trails.

Brown Bear
Occasionally spotted in the more secluded parts of the park, the brown bear is the largest predator in the region. While primarily nocturnal, these powerful animals forage for berries, fish, and small mammals.

Moose (European Elk)
As the largest land mammal in Finland, moose are a common sight in the park’s forests. They feed on aquatic vegetation, leaves, and twigs and are often seen near the water’s edge.

Red Fox
A highly adaptable species, the red fox is a frequent visitor to open meadows and forest edges within Kolovesi. It hunts small rodents and scavenges for food, playing an essential role in the ecosystem.

Raccoon Dog
This small, nocturnal mammal is an introduced species in Finland. Recognizable by its thick fur and masked face, the raccoon dog forages for insects, amphibians, and berries in the park.

Western Capercaillie (Ground-Dwelling Bird)
While technically a bird, the Western capercaillie is worth mentioning due to its impressive size and role in the forest ecosystem. Males perform elaborate courtship displays to attract mates in spring.

Adder (Vipera berus)
The only venomous snake in Finland, the adder is often found basking on warm rocks or hidden in undergrowth. Despite its venom, it is shy and avoids humans whenever possible.

European Beaver
Once nearly extinct in Finland, the European beaver has made a comeback and can be seen constructing lodges and dams along the park’s waterways. Its engineering skills create important wetland habitats for many other species.