Haapsalu Tagalaht Bay birdwatching tower

Haapsalu can rightly be regarded as the birdwatching capital of Estonia. The Haapsalu birdwatching tower has a magnificent view of the city’s most populated bird area – Haapsalu Tagalaht Bay. Waterfowl arrive in the bay in early spring with the melting of the first patches of ice, and the last birds leave only after the bay has completely frozen over.

Tagalaht Bay is busiest with birds in spring and autumn. During this time, there can be more than ten thousand waterfowl congregating in the shallow bay. The fascinating courtship ritual of the great crested grebe nesting near the Haapsalu waterfront promenade is a real treat to witness in April. Be sure to turn your attention to the larger rocks as you scan the bay’s surface with binoculars – you can often spot white-tailed eagles perched on them.