Nature & Adventure

Lake Tysslingen – an oasis for birds of all kinds

Published March 1, 2023 / Updated March 25, 2026
The well-known bird lake Tysslingen lies at the foot of the Kilsbergen hills, about 6 miles west of Örebro. Throughout the year, the lake is home to a variety of birds, and for many years it has been known as a popular resting place for whooper swans.

Over the years, birdwatchers from near and far have made a pilgrimage to Tysslingen every spring. Much of the appeal lies in seeing and photographing the sea of white swans that gather at the lake. In recent years, the number of swans stopping at Tysslingen has declined. This is because the swans are no longer being fed here and are therefore choosing other places to rest.

Many bird species to discover

But Tysslingen remains a bird paradise, both for a large number of swans and a variety of other species. When the swans move on, for example, it’s time for the waders to take over Tysslingen. Then the shore meadows transform from a resting place into a nursery. Around the lake, species such as the yellow wagtail, meadow pipit, skylark, and northern lapwing nest. They form families, build nests, and raise their young. You can also see everything from starlings to geese of every imaginable kind.

Later in the summer, you can also spot the nightingale and the Tysslingen warbler. The bittern can be heard all around the lake, and the white-tailed eagle keeps a watchful eye from above. 

Here you'll find both services and activities

In addition to the rich birdlife, there is more to experience at the lake. The Tysslingen Nature Center offers both activities and amenities. It features a café, bookstore, art gallery, and conference rooms, and hosts lectures, bird-watching breakfasts, and art exhibitions.

The Tysslingen Nature Center is located at the northern tip of Tysslingen, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Örebro. From Örebro, head west on the E20 and follow the signs toward Garphyttan. Just past Gräve, you’ll find the information tower and the southern observation tower on the right side of the road. Want to stay updated on bird activity and everything else going on? We recommend following Tysslingen Nature Center onFacebook—or checking outtheir website

Cover photo: Mats Ericsson

Nature reserves and conservation areas around Tysslingen

Lake Tysslingen is not only an important lake for various species of birds. It is also a nature reserve that is part of Natura 2000, the EU’s network of protected natural areas. The reserve encompasses both the lake and the surrounding shore meadows, which helps preserve biodiversity in the area.

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