Goldregen Pfeife #4
When the long days of Spring are starting to melt the layers of snow in the mountains, the European Golden Plover has already made his way North. In some cultures, for example the Icelandic, this plover is the symbol for Spring’s arrival.
It has spent the winter season in the range from Central Europe to Northern Africa. Now that the long days are in front of the doorstep, it has returned to the Northern mountains and tundras. This time, even though short, is a very productive one.
In the short summer season, it will lay eggs, feed the young, and “tooot” at everything that is passing by its territory. The European Golden Plover cannot be described as very shy, it is careful, but if it gets used to one’s presence, it is eager to take a closer look. While the parental birds leave in the middle of August, it is sometimes still possible to hear the calls of some youngsters into September.
Its monosyllabic call is a very known one in the Norwegian mountains, but it is also one that is prone to disappear if nothing is done. Listed as near threatened on the Norwegian red list for animals, the European Golden Plover, as many other birds, is facing great challenges with the changing climate and ever lost habitat through human impact.
I am a licensed guide for the Dovrefjell-Sunndalsfjell National Park. On a tailor-made tour with me, you will be able to experience the Muskoxen, but also Moose, the European Golden Plover, and other wildlife. Visiting Dovrefjell is a good idea in nearly every season! I am a nature photographer and biologist, and will take well considered choices to not disturb any wildlife, especially the wild reindeer. Day-Trips from Trondheim are possible.
