Rastunsuo Bird Lake

Rastunsuo Bird Lake is located on a former peat production area. The area is classified as one of Northern Savonia’s regionally valuable bird sites.

Peat production at Rastunsuo ended in the early 1990s. At that time, Vapo established a bird lake of approximately 15 hectares. The Northern Savonia Nature Conservation District purchased the area in 2016, and it was protected in 2017.

Bird species nesting at the lake include the black‑headed gull, common gull, little gull, horned grebe, and waterfowl such as the mallard, teal, wigeon, tufted duck, goldeneye and shoveler. In previous years, the smew has also nested in the area. Observations of the spotted crake have been made in several years. The osprey may also be seen hunting at the bird lake, as the lake contains species such as crucian carp.

Along the shores, reed buntings, reed warblers and occasionally nightingales can be found. In the surrounding farmland areas, skylarks, curlews and lapwings breed.

A 1.5‑kilometre easy‑to‑walk nature trail circles the lake. Along the route there are information boards describing the area’s birds, plants and other wildlife. The trail passes via the birdwatching towers. In addition, there is a bird observation hide along the path. At the starting point, where you can also park, there is a log‑built shelter in addition to a birdwatching tower.

Facilities

• Shelter

• Birdwatching towers (2 pcs) and bird observation hide

• Dry toilet

Address:
Rastunsuontie, 77700 Rautalampi