Black Sun - a natural phenomenon where starlings dance in the evening sky

The Black Sun phenomenon is a fantastic experience when hundreds of thousands of starlings dance ballet in the evening sky above Ribe Marsken. Black sun seasons are both in spring and autumn.
The seasons are March-April and September-October.
When the sun is black, you can see the dance of the starlings, which is determined by the number of birds of prey and the weather. The optimal conditions are a relatively quiet and dry evening, as well as an appropriate number of birds of prey, which help to create the beautiful formations in the sky. On a stormy and rainy evening without birds of prey, the starlings dive down quite quickly and retire for the night in the reed forest.
In spring and autumn, flocks of starlings of many thousands can be seen resting in the reed forest in the area by Ribe Vesterå and from the bird tower at Ribe Østerå. In Ribe Østerå you can experience a rich birdlife all year round. 10 minutes walk from the railway station stands a handicap-friendly bird tower, with a fantastic view over the wetland.
Guided Black Sol tours - organized by the Wadden Sea Centre Book your trip well in advance, as there are limited places by phone +45 75 44 61 61 or online booking
Remember the following on your Black Sol trip Warm clothes, a pot of coffee, possibly binoculars and patience.
On their own Where and when can the phenomenon be experienced! It is difficult to say in advance exactly where the starlings have decided to roost on a given evening. On the Lindet State Forest District website, you can see a map of frequently used accommodation. The greatest experience is achieved by taking part in a Black Sol tour with the Wadden Sea Centre.
Possible locations near Ribe
Ribe Østerå - the bird tower. Parking at the end of Bøge Allé.
Ribe Østerå - Damhus. At main road 24 towards Haderslev, right next to the railway track.
Ribe Vesterå - Åslyngen on Bjerrumvej.
Vilslev Enge

Updated by: Wadden Sea Coast | info@vadehavskysten.dk