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A short-eared owl in flight (photo: Matthias Berger)
Short-eared owls and flocks of goldcrests: birdwatching excursion to Heligoland organised by the Zoology division
In October, the Zoology division held its annual excursion to Heligoland. In autumn, a wide variety of migratory birds can be observed on the offshore island, where they stop on their journey south. The group discovered more than a hundred different species this year. Two short-eared owls and huge flocks of goldcrests caused particular excitement.
13.11.2025
The following report by Prof. Dr. Achim Paululat, head of the Zoology division, gives an impression of the exciting insights the group gained on Heligoland.
Birdwatching at one of the most exciting spots in Europe
As part of our ‘Avifauna’ focus module, we visited the German offshore island of Heligoland in October. This meant spending almost a week birdwatching at one of Europe's most exciting bird migration spots. Every autumn, thousands of birds gather on Heligoland to take a break on their way south. This often provides an opportunity to observe well-known and rare species at close range. It is also a good opportunity to familiarise yourself with binoculars and spotting scopes and to try out identification aids, books, apps or call recognition programmes.
After the first joint observation tours on the island, the students were increasingly able to gather observation experience on their own. In the evening, all observations were discussed using photos, identifying features were discussed, and plans for the next day were coordinated. As always, we were guests at the Wilhelm-Mielck-Haus, a modern accommodation with a large group room offering a fantastic view of the sea.
This year's participants in the Avifauna focus module in front of the Wilhelm-Mielck-Haus (photo: Achim Paululat)
Impressive flocks of tiny birds
In five days, we heard, saw or observed a total of 105 bird species. Particularly impressive were the flocks of goldcrests that suddenly populated the entire island. Weighing only 5-6 grams, these birds need to rest on their energy-sapping journey to their winter quarters. Another highlight was certainly the observation of two short-eared owls in Mittelland, one of the many popular observation points on the island. It is impressive how well camouflaged these animals are. Our tutor Matthias Berger managed to capture a fantastic flight photo.
More about the Avifauna focus module
