Picture a kingfisher. A flash of blue against the green. This jewel thrives here in Hainesch-Iland.
Hainesch-Iland. It is a natural treasure nestled between Sasel and Bergstedt. This protected area spans 71 hectares. It was established as a nature reserve on January 7, 1975.
Follow me as we discover Hainesch-Iland. This area boasts diverse habitats. There are valleys, hills, meadows, forests, and streams. All nurture a wealth of plant and animal life.
The Saselbek and Furtbek streams flow through Hainesch-Iland. The Saselbek is dammed at the Bergstedter Alte Mühle. Today, the mill houses a café and restaurant.
The area provides varied landscapes. This makes it ideal for diverse flora. The high plains of Hainesch and Iland once served as farmland. Orchards bloom here in spring. Meadows offer lush green contrasts. Cornfields turn golden in summer. Hedges, copses, and old oak and beech trees dot the landscape.
Look closely at the Krattwald. These are coppiced woods. Here, oaks and beeches were cut short above the root. This encouraged voluminous new shoots. These shoots were harvested every 15 to 20 years. The bark served in tanneries. The wood was used for construction and fuel. The leaves were used as animal fodder.
The slopes and valley of the Saselbek show different vegetation. The steep slopes support a light deciduous forest. Rare flowering plants like devil’s claw thrive. An alluvial forest of alders, ashes, and willows grows at the foot of the slopes. Bitter cress grows in the valley. Broad-leaved marsh orchids flourish in the swampy meadows.
Listen closely. The Saselbekgrund shares similarities with the Rodenbeker Quellental. Marsh and water provide habitats for waterfowl and amphibians. Many ducks and rails live here. You can also spot little grebes and grey wagtails. Grass frogs, moor frogs, water frogs, and newts are common. The hillside forests offer breeding and feeding grounds for numerous birds. Around 130 bird species have been recorded here.
But the kingfisher is the star. This bird is endangered in Germany. Hainesch-Iland has the most significant population in Hamburg. The kingfisher flashes through the valleys. It nests in the steep banks of the Saselbek. The overhanging trees on the Saselbek, Furtbek, and Haingraben provide excellent hunting spots. The rich fish stocks ensure the kingfisher has the best prey.
Hainesch-Iland is more than just a nature reserve. It is an educational center. Local schools and community groups participate in nature observation programs. Visitors can explore marked trails. Designated areas allow for bird watching and nature photography.
Hainesch-Iland is a vital habitat. It provides refuge for flora and fauna. The area offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. Remember the flash of blue. It serves as a reminder of the treasures Hainesch-Iland protects.