Petgärde swamp

About the swamp

The swamp was formed by the damming up of water by the clay ridges running north-south along the east coast of the island. Cultivation and grazing have occurred around the area for a long time. Mowing and grazing prevent scrub and overgrowth and benefit bird life. Mowing and grazing are particularly beneficial to waders. In some areas, reeds are mowed to create open clear water areas.

Rare birds

The area is home to many of the Nordic countries' rare bird species. Of particular interest are the greylag goose, water rail, small-spotted marsh hen, osprey, spoonbill, brent goose, yellowhammer, red-breasted pochard, reed warbler and grasshopper warbler. The area is home to the brown marsh hawk and the rare meadow hawk. The curlew benefits from grazing and therefore breeds on the grazed areas. The red-backed plover is a characteristic bird of Öland and is often seen here. Other birds include the marsh flycatcher, greater sandpiper, great spoonbill, redshank, common snipe, red-legged partridge, shore cattail, chiffchaff and meadow pipit.

Source: Länsstyrelsen Kalmar län

Keep in mind!

It is forbidden to walk on the path between 1/4 - 15/8. This means that you are only allowed to stay on the path, you are not allowed to deviate from it or walk next to it.

Petgärde swamp can be reached from the parking lot along road 136, 5 km south of Föra on the eastern side of Öland.

Coordinates

56.955251437233, 16.85256819798534

In the nature reserve you may not:

• Damage or remove fixed natural objects or surface formations.
• Damage or remove growing trees or shrubs.
• Pick flowers.
• Hunt, kill, capture or harm wild mammals, amphibians, reptiles or birds.
• Remove or damage eggs or nests.
• Being near a raptor's nest, den or burrow.
• Deliberately disturbing wildlife.
• During 1 April - 15 March each year, you may only be on specially designated roads or paths, birdwatching towers and visitor areas.
• Bring a dog, or other animal, that is not on a leash.
• Damage or remove fencing devices (such as fences or gates).
• Build fires.
• Camping, caravanning or similar activities in places other than designated areas.
• Driving any vehicle or craft.
• Disturb the environment with loud noises such as music, video or radio.

Source: Nature Management Unit Kalmar County Administrative Board