Ottenby
Oland's southern tip, where a bird observatory has ringed migrants since 1946 under a tall lighthouse.
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The southern point of Oland funnels migration: birds moving down the island concentrate here before crossing water, and the observatory founded in 1946 has ringed well over a million of them since, which makes it one of the longest continuous datasets in European ornithology. Lange Jan, the lighthouse of 1785, stands at the point at forty-two metres and can be climbed. Behind it lies Ottenby lund, an old oak wood, and Schaferiangarna, shore meadows grazed by cattle where waders breed. A wall built in 1650 to keep deer in the royal park still runs across the island. The museum and shop are at the lighthouse.
What you actually see
- A ringing station working since 1946 - over a million birds recorded.
- Lange Jan lighthouse - 1785, forty-two metres, climbable.
- Grazed shore meadows - breeding waders in spring.
- A deer wall of 1650 - still crossing the island.
When to go
April to May and August to October for migration. Half a day.
Honest expectations
Migration is weather dependent - a still day can be quiet. Facilities close outside the season. The point is exposed with constant wind. Ringing demonstrations are not always available.
Nearby
Stora Alvaret is north; Eketorp is on the eastern side.
What to pack for Ottenby
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
