Join us! Skagen Fuglestation
The Observatory Skagen Bird Observatory lies at the top of Denmark as a part of Skagen Grey Lighthouse – Center for Migratory Birds, situated in the beautiful landscape towards Grenen. Skagen is a funnel for migrating birds when they pass through Denmark on their fantastic journeys. For years, birdwatchers have flocked to Skagen to experience birds and nature. Experiences we would very much like to share with you! The Observatory newly opened in May 2017 – making it possible to
57°44’8.1”N 10°37’5
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50.4”E
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Birds Geographically Skagen is one of the best spots in Northern Europe for migrating birds! More than 365 species have been recorded in the area. With around 130 species breeding in the local area it’s also a pretty great place to bird in the summer. The area is also renowned for offering more rarities than anywhere else in Denmark. With the recent completion of the Bird Observatory, the potential for an amazing birding experience on the peninsula has never been higher. Huge numbers of migrating raptors pass through the area, making Skagen the best place in Denmark for raptors in spring. In the autumn, the return passage of seabirds can be just as spectacular, and both spring and autumn are great for passerines.
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Activities The work is varied, balanced between observations and ringing. We have three ringing sites, including one Constant Effort Site. The day-to-day work consists of many different jobs besides ringing and observations – including presentation, instruction, processing data, practical work, etc. We work in conjunction with universities on a variety of projects including breeding bird monitoring, tracking and sampling to monitoring avian diseases.
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Premises and facilities The rooms for volunteers and visitors are on the first floor. In the northern wing there is a large kitchen and a common room. There are also two rooms with beds and a shared bathroom. The southern wing has one bedroom, a common room with a small kitchen, and a bathroom. This wing is used when required, but is reserved for paying guests. The exhibition is on the ground floor, and there is a cafĂŠ and shop in the southern annex. The Bird Observatory`s laboratory and Birder`s Club, are in the northern annex. Here you also find our washing machine.
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We Offer
As a volunteer, we offer you free accommodation in a new and modern Observatory in one of Denmark’s most iconic buildings: The lighthouse living quarters - with the birds right on your doorstep. The Observatory values professionalism and solidarity greatly, which gives you the possibility to develop your knowledge, skills and responsibility, but also to have great experiences together with the rest of the staff. It is a place of space and high spirits! Experienced ringers and observers who can operate on their own get an allowance of 150 DKK, while newcomers begin with 75 DKK. The observatory prioritizes education, both of the public and the voluntary staff. With lectures on ringing and moult held in our own lecture room, and hands on experience in different ringing and bird catching techniques, Skagen ensures that its staff will leave extremely experienced. There is a lot of opportunity for new projects and methods, and as a volunteer, you have the chance to influence the direction and structure of such projects during your time here.
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Join us! Send your application
Send your application with CV and references to Simon S. Christiansen, Head of Skagen Bird Observatory, or contact him for further information by email ssc@dof.dk We prioritize applicants who can stay for a whole season but we also welcome applications for a shorter time. If the immediate funds of the Observatory do not meet an allowance, do not despair! We do have several other possibilities for you to become a part of the Observatory as a volunteer for a short or long period. We are also very willing to teach newcomers – so please do not hesitate to contact us! We hope to see you here at Skagen Bird Observatory!
Simon S. Christiansen Head of Skagen Bird Observatory Email: ssc@dof.dk
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Skagen Bird Observatory is part of
E-MAIL: skagen@dof.dk TEL.: +45 21 77 50 20 WEB: skagenfuglestation.dk facebook/skagenfuglestation
Graphic Design: Toke F. Nyborg
Skagen Bird Observatory Fyrvej 36 9990 Skagen DENMARK