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Utsira Known as the Golden Isle between Norwegian birders. Situated just off the coast from the town of Haugesund, this small island regularly produces the unexpected. So if you like looking for and seeing rarities, then this short break is for you. Over 300 species have been recorded, with several, like the Masked Shrike being a first for Norway.

Day 1:
After arriving we make the short drive to Haugesund and catch the ferry to Utsira. The journey usually takes a little over an hour and it is possible to do a bit of seawatching from the upper deck. On arrival we will check in and have our evening meal before taking our first “round” around the island – here the motto is leave no bush unturned – even if it is for species like Yellow-browed Warbler. However if there is a mega rarity on the island we will go for that.

Day 2:
The term walking in circles is perfect for Utsira. The main road around the island forms a ring and most of the birding is done from this road by checking people’s gardens and the main valley that runs down the centre of the island. This may sound a bit weird for the visiting birder but it’s the gardens that hold the most varied vegetation and the list of rarities that have been found over the past years in this type of habitat is impressive to say the least. However, there are lots of other areas to check as well as the ringing station and a bit of sea-watching if conditions are right.

Day 3:
The same as Friday, but we may walk in a anti-clockwise direction to add to the excitement.

Day 4:
As the return flight leaves midday we will have to get the first ferry off the island. However this will give us some time to check Tarvika near the airport if only for some of the commoner species like Magpie that are not found on Utsira.