Grimnitzsee: Germany's bird paradise surpasses the Camargue!

Grimnitzsee: Germany's bird paradise surpasses the Camargue!

Lake Grimnitz in Brandenburg is not only a hidden natural paradise, but also a hotspot for ornithologists and nature lovers. With an area of ​​780 hectares, the lake offers outstanding biodiversity. This is also reflected in the impressive number of over 14,000 waterbirds recorded in a count in November 2021, which even puts it ahead of the renowned Camargue in France. Loud Journee Mondiale Grimnitzsee has a 23 percent higher density of waterbirds per hectare than the Camargue.

Another notable aspect is the high concentration of sea eagles. The Grimnitzsee is home to a significant density compared to the Baltic Sea coast, as there are 1.8 pairs of sea eagles per 10 km², while there are only 0.7 pairs on the Baltic Sea coast. The ideal combination of flat bank zones and nutrient-rich subsoil creates perfect conditions for wading birds and other breeding species.

Observation opportunities at Grimnitzsee

Local visitors and bird lovers can enjoy the untouched nature from the observation tower in Althüttendorf. There you have the opportunity to spot birds such as red-necked grebes, ospreys and sea eagles. Even in winter you can observe impressive winter birds such as whooper swan, scoter and goldeneye. The surrounding area is not only a refuge for many species of birds, but is also home to a variety of species such as beavers and Eurasian otters, as in Birding Places is reported.

Access to this natural experience is convenient: the asphalt road and normal paths are easily accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers alike. There are plenty of parking spaces near the observation tower, which is particularly beneficial for families and amateur ornithologists.

Nature conservation and biodiversity

But it's not just the animals that benefit from the protected habitat of Lake Grimnitz. Nature conservation has been a priority here since 1959, supported by the EU Habitats Directive. Efforts are currently underway to renaturate and expand protection zones in order to further promote biodiversity. These measures are particularly important in view of the EU requirement to designate 30 percent of the EU's areas as nature reserves by 2030, which poses major challenges for Germany. Currently, Germany has only designated 0.6 percent of its area, which is loud daily news means only a third-to-last place among the 27 EU states.

The Schorfheide-Chorin region, where Grimnitzsee is located, is one of the largest protected areas in Germany and covers 129,161 hectares. It not only offers a habitat for many endangered species, but is also valued for its extensive meadows and fields. A true El Dorado for nature lovers that is worth discovering!