N

The Northern pintail is a common migratory bird in Matsalu Bay and the Silma Nature Reserve. The bays here are shallow, which provides excellent feeding possibilities for these dabbling ducks.

The Haeska birdwatching tower near Matsalu offers the best view of Northern pintails. Up to 5000 birds can be seen here during their spring migration in April. Another important migratory stopover area for Northern pintails is located in Noarootsi on Tahu Bay. Northern pintails stop on Lääne County’s inner bays in greater numbers in the spring, then again in the autumn in August and September.

The Northern shoveler is an uncommon breeding and migratory bird in Lääne County. It can be seen from April to October. Although the Northern shoveler is a frequent migratory bird in Matsalu and Haapsalu bays, its population remains modest in comparison to most other dabbling ducks. Birds can often be spotted from the observation towers of Haeska and Keemu, as well as Cape Puise.

They primarily nest on the islets of Matsalu, Hullo and Väinameri.