Autumn hikes in the Harz: Species protection campaign started!

Autumn hikes in the Harz: Species protection campaign started!

Autumn has bathed the Harz in a wonderful blaze of color, and the hiking trails in the German low mountain ranges are now particularly inviting. Many nature lovers are drawn to the region where the air is fresh and the views are spectacular. But it's not just the autumn leaves that make the Harz so popular, but also the diverse measures to protect the regional flora and fauna that the Göttingen district news38.de reports that ....

On September 23, 2025, a species protection campaign was launched, which involves the comprehensive recording of reptiles, fish, brook lampreys and dragonflies in the old Osterode district by autumn 2026. Nature conservation authority employees work closely with experts to document the condition of the habitats. The campaign is divided into two parts: On the one hand, mappers create special maps, and on the other hand, the animal inventory is carried out using hiding places such as wooden boards and dark mats. These hiding places are labeled and serve as important basking spots or shelters for reptiles. Hikers are asked not to move them so as not to disturb the animals. Property owners are also asked to make their property accessible to the mappers, as the artificial hiding places are to be removed after the operation. Ultimately, these surveys aim to secure biological diversity in the Harz.

The biodiversity in the Harz National Park

The Harz is home to an impressive biodiversity, especially of arthropods. According to the information on the Harz National Park website, over 4,000 species of arthropods have already been identified in the region, including around 1,400 species of beetles and 900 species of butterflies, as well as 42 species of dragonflies. Despite the harsh climate, which is considered somewhat species-poor, there are numerous special species here that have adapted to extreme living conditions. Particularly noteworthy are the Arctic emerald dragonfly and the Alpine emerald dragonfly, which are particularly protected in Germany due to their endangerment. The raised moors in the Harz offer these dragonfly species suitable living conditions that are second to none.

In winter, another facet of this unique animal world becomes apparent. Specialized insects and spiders, such as the wingless snow fly or the snow flea, can often be discovered on the snow surface. The Siberian canopy spider, one of the rarest spiders in Europe, has also found its habitat here, underlining the region's importance for biodiversity.

About dead wood and its inhabitants

Another exciting topic in the Harz is dead wood. The forest in and around Braunlage has visibly changed. Dead wood has been partially removed there, but in the national park it remains largely untouched and provides a habitat for numerous animals. Around 20 to 30% of forest dwellers depend on dead wood. This is not only a source of food for fungi and insects, but also plays a crucial role in providing nutrients to other plants.

A variety of animal species, including wild cats, lynxes and various bird species such as the black woodpecker, find shelter in the tree hollows of the dead wood. Light-loving plants have also found their place in lighter forests and provide food for butterflies and wild bees. A holiday in the Harz region becomes a unique opportunity to experience natural development up close.

Guided hikes with national park rangers or visits to the national park houses not only offer adventure, but also deeper insights into the special features of the region and the species that live there. This means that nature lovers can enjoy the beauty of autumn in one day and at the same time make an important contribution to species protection.