Ivalo area, Finland - Xmas 2008 (1 Viewer)

[wolfbirder]

I am getting married in this area (subject to booking availability) at Xmas 2008.
Wonder if anyone had any experience of birding at this time of year in northern Finland/Lapland.

Excuse my total ignorance, I know the average daily temp is minus 15C. Is it just too cold for any birds?

My dream has always been to see a Great Grey Owl, but I suspect paying a local guide for a day out (if there were to be any) would probably be futile due to the weather and associated blocked roads. Are there many / any Great Grey Owls in this area? What else might I see nearby?

Any help would be gratefully received.

 

[rosbifs]

Also had the coldest european temp on record at -55c.....

 

[wolfbirder]

Also had the coldest european temp on record at -55c.....

I will just have to hope its a balmy minus 20C !!

 

[Edward]

Remember that Ivalo is situated at 68°N so I imagine the sun won't be rising until well into January, so it'll be pretty murky, although you'll probably get some twilight in the middle of the day and be able to bird by streetlight!

E

 

[wolfbirder]

i think there is about 5 hours daylight, not sure there will be any birds to see thats the problem.

 

[DrHPI]

i think there is about 5 hours daylight, not sure there will be any birds to see thats the problem.

Actually there will be five hours twilight and 19 hours night.

 

[wolfbirder]

Actually there will be five hours twilight and 19 hours night.

ok ok the lights gonna be sheet. Will i see any birds at all? Or shall I leave my binos at home?

 

[StuartReeves]

I've only been to the area in June when daylight was not a problem. From what I remember however, Siberian Tit and Pine Grosbeak are much easier to see in winter when they attend feeders. For more information, I suggest contacting the authors of this site: http://www.karhut.org/inari/

Stuart

 

[wolfbirder]

I've only been to the area in June when daylight was not a problem. From what I remember however, Siberian Tit and Pine Grosbeak are much easier to see in winter when they attend feeders. For more information, I suggest contacting the authors of this site: http://www.karhut.org/inari/

Stuart

Thats excellent Stuart. Great information. Have made contact and hope to get some response.:t: