The red-chested charmer

Found year-round, the Robin stays quieter in snowy months. Favoring forest interiors, it visits waterhole hides-giving photographers edgewise, intimate portraits of Europe’s beloved bird.

Observed in hides: Malo Srediste Waterhole, CK waterhole.
Seasons of observation: Year round.
Probability observed: Medium.

The silent forest keeper

Breeding here with around ten pairs, the Ural Owl prefers mature woodland in the Vrsac Mountains. Though rarely seen outside breeding season, it’s a potential photo subject in dedicated nocturnal sessions—future addition to our owl hides.

Observed from tents.
Seasons of observation: Spring.
Probability observed: Medium.

The winter wanderer

Arriving from October to early April, the Brambling winter flocks across the Vrsac Mountains. While not yet photographed from hides, it’s often seen nearby—making our feeding setups great candidates for its colorful arrival.

Observed in hides: Malo Srediste Waterhole, CK waterhole.
Seasons of observation: Winter and early spring.
Probability observed: Medium.

The summer phantom

A rare breeder (2–3 pairs since 2020), the Booted Eagle resides from May to September. Preferring forested nesting sites, it occasionally appears at flight hide positions—an exciting find for raptor enthusiasts visiting Serbia.

Observed in hides: Flyover Photography Spot.
Seasons of observation: Early summer.
Probability observed: Low.

Shadow over the reeds

Western Marsh Harriers patrol the wetlands of Mali Vrsacki Rit and Labudovo Okno for most of the year, less often in deep winter. From our wetland viewpoints you can watch them quarter the reedbeds, tilt in the wind and drop onto prey. Their broad wings and low hunting style make them ideal for atmospheric habitat shots over water and reeds.

Observed in hides: Malo Srediste Waterhole, CK waterhole.
Seasons of observation: Spring and summer.
Probability observed: Medium.

Soft wings over the vines

Turtle Doves visit the Vrsac Mountains from May to August, breeding in mosaics of woodland, hedgerows and farmland. They sometimes appear at our feeding areas and drinking pools, their delicate pattern and soft colours fitting perfectly with the wine-country landscape. This is a species in decline across Europe, so every respectful encounter feels special.

Observed in hides: Malo Srediste Waterhole.
Seasons of observation: Spring and summer.
Probability observed: Medium.

Restless legs in the shallows

During spring and autumn migration, Labudovo Okno becomes a key stopover for a wide range of waders moving along this part of Europe. Waves of sandpipers, plovers and other shorebirds drop in to feed and rest on mudflats and flooded edges. For photographers, this means constantly changing species and behaviour, from tight feeding flocks to isolated birds against smooth, reflective water.

Observed from Swan’s shaft setups.
Seasons of observation: Year round.
Probability observed: High.

Small body, big colony

Pygmy Cormorants are a constant presence at Labudovo Okno, with a nearby island hosting a colony of around 300 breeding pairs. They fish along channels, rest on snags and gather in loose groups, offering endless chances for portraits and group compositions. In soft light their dark plumage picks up beautiful bronze and green tones against the water.

Observed from Swan’s shaft setups.
Seasons of observation: Spring and summer.
Probability observed: High.

Red-billed powerhouse

Caspian Terns visit Labudovo Okno from late summer into early autumn, appearing as single birds, pairs or family groups with fledged young. You may watch adults pass fish to juveniles in mid-air or see up to a couple of dozen birds resting together on sandbanks. Their strong shape and heavy red bill make for striking flight shots over the Danube floodplain.

Observed from Swan’s shaft setups.
Seasons of observation: Summer.
Probability observed: Medium.

Golden shadow in the reeds

Squacco Herons are regular at Labudovo Okno from April to September, often seen stalking slowly through very shallow water. In breeding plumage their warm tones and long nape feathers glow beautifully in early or late light. With eye-level hides you can work on subtle behaviour – slow steps, strikes and preening – framed by reeds and mirrored water.

Observed from Swan’s shaft setups.
Seasons of observation: Spring and summer.
Probability observed: High.