Vähikkäläntie

Toivanjoki river is home to one of the best wetland bird habitats in the Kanta-Häme region. The area plays an important role both as a stopover site for migratory birds and as a breeding ground for various wetland species. The wetland was formed after the riverbanks began to flood repeatedly, due to the construction and later elevation of hydropower dams in Tervakoski during the 19th and 20th centuries.

From the parking area, a roughly 300-meter path leads to the birdwatching tower. The path is generally easy to walk, though waterproof boots may be helpful depending on conditions. The tower overlooks the wetland, where the Toivanjoki river flows between Lakes Kesijärvi and Alasjärvi.

Birds commonly seen or heard from the tower include bittern, marsh harrier, cranes, and curlews. The area is also worth visiting at dusk or even during the night in late spring and early summer, when species like the water rail, spotted crake, corncrake, and various warblers become vocal.

During migration seasons, especially in May, the tower offers great chances to spot waders such as wood sandpipers, greenshanks, and ruffs. Along the path leading to the tower, you may also hear wrens, dunnocks, and tree pipits singing.

View the area map in the electronic map service.