Photographs: Domestic Scenes Captured by Photographer Tõnu Runnel in Estonia
In the heart of Northern Europe, Estonia experiences a unique blend of natural wonders and cultural traditions, particularly during the change of seasons. While most may associate seasonal migration with large-scale human movements, in Estonia, it predominantly refers to the annual journeys of migratory birds driven by climate and ecological cycles.
The northern temperate climate of Estonia causes cold winters and moderately warm summers with distinct seasons. This climate drives migratory birds to leave for warmer regions in autumn and return in spring when food and breeding conditions improve. Human seasonal migration at a large scale is less documented but may be related to tourism patterns that peak in summer due to favorable weather and daylight length.
Migratory birds return to Estonia’s wetlands, coastal areas, and national parks such as Matsalu, Haapsalu, and Lahemaa in spring for breeding and feeding. Bird migration can be witnessed during spring mass migrations along the coast, making these areas important seasonal hubs for wildlife observation.
During the summer months, Estonians living in cities and towns often migrate to villages and summer houses, a tradition that can be compared to a seasonal migration between summer and winter pastures. This seasonal migration is particularly popular among Estonians living abroad, who flock to their homeland during the brief summer season. Thousands of Estonians from the worldwide diaspora migrate to Estonia during summer, making it a vibrant and lively time in the countryside.
Estonia's summer season is characterised by long days filled with near-constant light, as the country experiences very short periods of darkness during this time. This extended daylight offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and attending markets or festivals such as Jaanipäev.
If you're intrigued by these seasonal migrations and the beautiful landscapes they encompass, you can explore the Estonian urban and landscape photo series, which includes multiple parts: "Eesti blues", "Eesti noir", "Eesti mist", and "Eesti autumn". To share this captivating series, simply click on the links provided to share on Twitter, LinkedIn, or Email.
Despite the seasonal migration of both birds and people, Estonia's overall population shows a decline partly linked to youth emigration, but this relates more to permanent migration rather than seasonal patterns.
References:
[1] Baltic Nature Tourism Newsletters [2] Estonian wildlife sources [3] Unspecified sources [4] Various statistical data and reports
In the summer, Estonians traditionally migrate from cities and towns to villages and summer houses, similar to a seasonal migration between summer and winter pastures (lifestyle, Estonia). Thousands of people of Estonian descent, living overseas, also migrate to Estonia during this brief season, making the countryside vibrant and lively (home-and-garden, Estonia).
