EuroBirdwatch Hahnenmoospass

Experience the natural spectacle of butterfly and bird migration on this European Migratory Bird Day, including expert guidance.

Every year in autumn, birds are drawn south. The reason for bird migration lies in the seasonal change of food availability. Some change their diet in autumn and remain in their breeding area. Others migrate south. In particular, insectivores as well as raptors must leave Northern and Central Europe and fly to their winter quarters in the south.

The Alps present an important barrier on the migration routes due to their geographical features. The Hahnenmoospass, easily accessible from Adelboden and Lenk, is one of the main flight routes. Under ideal conditions, one can observe birds and also migratory butterflies almost continuously on their way to warmer regions.

Under the guidance of Myrta Wüthrich, we will dedicate the entire day to the fascinating topic “Natural Spectacle Migratory Birds and Migratory Butterflies.” Questions about birds' migration behavior will be answered.

• Why do certain birds migrate south in autumn?
• What species of birds are involved?
• Where are their winter quarters?
• How do birds find their way south?
• What dangers do they face?

Together, we will observe the bird species that undertake a challenging journey to their winter quarters in the south each year. For example, Tower and Tree Falcons, Sparrowhawks, Red Kites, Common and Wasp Buzzards, House and Barn Swallows, Ring Doves, Common Chaffinches, Eurasian Siskins, Field Larks, and much more.

Did you know that some species of butterflies also migrate to escape the winter cold to warmer areas? The Admiral is one of these migratory butterflies.

• Which migratory butterflies fly over the Hahnenmoospass?
• What does their life cycle (metamorphosis) look like?

Let yourself be inspired by the colorful "performers".

Cost: excluding travel/cable car
CHF 40.– Adults
CHF 20.– Children up to 16 years
CHF 100.– per family

Payment in cash on-site.

Included in the price: Information materials on the topic “Bird Migration” and loan of binoculars.

Weather
If it rains heavily, the event will not take place. In case of uncertain weather, you can inquire the day before with Lenk-Simmental Tourism whether it will take place or not.

An alternative program may be offered.

Equipment
Binoculars (provided if not available. Limited number). Weather-appropriate clothing, good shoes, sun protection. Possible catering.

Duration
until approx. 5:00 PM

Meeting point
8:45 AM at the valley station Stand-Xpress Metschbahn. Approximately 40 min. hiking time (easy hike) from Metschstand to Hahnenmoospass. Or individual arrival:
10:00 AM at Berghotel Hahnenmoos, on the sun terrace.

12:00 – 1:00 PM lunch at Berghotel Hahnenmoos at your own expense or picnic.

Individual return journey during the afternoon.

Overnight accommodation available at Berghotel Hahnenmoos.

Registration
by Wednesday, October 1.

Online Registration
Alternatively: By phone, email, or at the counter in the Tourist Center: Lenk-Simmental Tourism, Rawilstrasse 3, +41 33 736 35 35, info@lenk-simmental.ch

Number of participants: Max. 25 people

Professional Information
Myrta Wüthrich
Federal Field Ornithologist & Excursion Leader
3772 St. Stephan
+41 79 514 20 65 or fokusnatura@gmx.ch