About the Institute

The Swiss Ornithological Institute in Sempach is a non-profit foundation supported by the public. It focuses on studies of wild birds and acquires the scientific basis for the conservation of birds and their habitats.

Monitoring

Birds draw our attention to changes in the environment. Supported by hundreds of volunteers, we monitor the populations of breeding birds, migrants and winter visitors in Switzerland.

Thanks to this work, 500’000 waterbirds find safe winter habitats on Swiss lakes and rivers every year.

Based on the data and recommendations of the Swiss Ornithological Institute, the Swiss Government designated the reserves of international and national importance for waterbirds and migrants in our country.