Autumn at the Urdaibai Bird Center
El paraíso en el que paran miles de aves en su migración postnupcial
WATER
October 2026
The Urdaibai marshes, a key part of the Atlantic route, are at their most active during these months
The Urdaibai Bird Center stands in the heart of the Urdaibai Biosphere Reserve, in Gautegiz Arteaga. This research centre functions as a living observatory, monitoring birds and their migratory routes. Its marshes are a key stopover on the Atlantic flyway.
Autumn is the busiest time of year at the centre. During those months, bird migration reaches its peak, attracting thousands of birds from northern and central Europe. These species stop off in the marsh to rest and feed before continuing their journey to southern Spain or Africa.
The spectacular dive of the osprey over the estuary is one of the most breathtaking moments during a visit to the Urdaibai nature reserve
In October, the Eurasian spoonbill stands out as the wetland’s star species. Coming from the Netherlands and Germany, groups of these white birds with spoon-shaped bills stop off in large numbers on their way to Mauritania and Senegal. They are best observed around high tide, when they gather in the higher areas opposite the observation points.
Also, the osprey stops off at the estuary on its way to West Africa. This bird of prey, which is part of a reintroduction programme in the reserve, dives into the estuary to catch fish and rests on wooden perches or on the riverbeds.
The riverbanks are home to waders such as the Eurasian whimbrel, the common and white greenshank, tailed sandpipers, the black-tailed godwit and the calidris. These birds form dense flocks that move in time with the tides, creating a unique visual spectacle. In late autumn, wintering waterfowl such as teals, pintails and wigeons arrive, bringing a sense of dynamism to the landscape.
Grey herons, kingfishers and cormorants live alongside yellow-legged gulls in a place where scientific research meets sustainable tourism.
Before your visit, it is advisable to check the tide table and plan your arrival for high tide
The centre offers audio guides, audiovisual displays and telescopes.
In October, it is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10.00 to 16.00, and at weekends from 10.00 to 18.00.
In November, it is open at weekends from 11.00 to 17.00.
General admission costs €8 and children’s admission, €5.
It is advisable to wear comfortable footwear for walking along trails such as the route to the Ozollo observatory.
