Birdwatching towers

Pyhäjoki is located on the coast of the Bay of Bothnia, and a river with the same name flows through it in two branches. The municipality lies along the spring and autumn bird migration routes, which makes it an excellent destination for birdwatching tourism. This page compiles the birdwatching towers in the Pyhäjoki area as well as other sites of interest to bird enthusiasts.

Tankokari - Parhalahti

Parhalahti is located about 5 kilometers north of the municipal center of Pyhäjoki. The Tankokari birdwatching tower at Parhalahti fishing harbor is one of the best-known migration observation sites in Northern Ostrobothnia. The richest birdlife period occurs from mid-April to the end of May, when on the busiest migration days thousands of geese, swans, and waders can be seen from the tower, along with hundreds of birds of prey.

The Tankokari birdwatching tower regularly performs well in the nationwide “Tower Battle” competition organized by BirdLife Suomi and most recently won in 2024.

The birdwatching tower is on the left when arriving at the harbor.

The road to Parhalahti harbor is a gravel road.

Address: Tankokarinnokka 4–5
64.507137 N, 24.278259 E

Osoite: Tankokarinnokka 4-5
64.507137 N, 24.278259 E

Kielosaari – nature trail

In the municipal center of Pyhäjoki, in the southern branch of the Pyhäjoki River, lies Kielosaari. From the western end of the island’s camping area starts a 600-meter-long nature trail, along which visitors can explore the diverse riverine nature. At the midpoint/end of the trail there is a birdwatching tower, offering a view over the river toward the north.

Address: Kielosaari camping area, Vanhatie 73

Veteraanimaja shore

The Veteraanimaja in Pyhäjoki is located on the seashore, about 9 kilometers southwest near Rajaniemi. Although the building itself is no longer in use, the shoreline is open to the public. There is a birdwatching tower on the beach, providing a direct view over a shallow bay, the sandy shore behind it, and out toward the open sea. The road to Veteraanimaja is unpaved.

Address: Veteraanimajantie, follow the signs to reach the site
64.441805 N, 24.121845 E

Natura 2000 protected area – Perilahti–Rajalathi bird wetland area

The area does not have a birdwatching tower, but it is an important resting site for migratory birds. In addition to common wetland species, its birdlife includes several demanding and conservation-significant species. The breeding bird fauna includes several species whose populations have declined and which are considered threatened.

Address: There is no official parking area within the site, but it can be accessed by driving to Harmintie 150.
64.428773 N, 24.119071 E

Explore the Natura 2000 area Perilahti - Rajalahti

Näkymä Tankokarin lintutornista Parhalahdelta