Founded in 1967, the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln is a haven for injured birds. It stands as one of Germany’s first facilities dedicated to raptor rehabilitation. This makes it a crucial part of Cologne’s landscape.
The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln primarily rescues sick and injured birds. These include birds of prey and owls. The team also cares for orphaned young birds. The goal is to nurse them back to health. Afterwards, the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln releases them back into the wild. Sadly some injuries prevent full recovery. The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln provides a permanent care section for these birds. This special area has been open to visitors on Sundays and public holidays since 1972. Admission is free so everyone can learn about these amazing creatures.
Beyond rehabilitation, the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln houses birds confiscated by authorities. These birds often come from the Nature Conservation Authority or customs. Occasionally other stations send birds when they lack space. The aviaries are designed to mimic the birds’ natural habitats. On average about 20 birds reside here. Most are native species.
In 1994, the city of Cologne faced financial constraints. It could no longer fund the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln. Fortunately, the Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald Köln e.V. stepped in. This forest conservation association, also located at Gut Leidenhausen, took over. Their action saved the station from closure.
The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln isn’t just about animal care. Veterinary care is ensured by veterinarian Dr. Susanne Mitlacher. Another key focus is educating the public. The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln teaches about the importance of protecting birds of prey and owls. It highlights their ecological role. The station also serves as an educational site for Cologne’s Forest School. Over 7,000 schoolchildren visit annually.
The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln features dedicated spaces for intensive care. These rooms aid the most critical cases. Several aviaries support recovery. They also assist in raising and training young birds for release. In 2007, funding from the NRW-Stiftung and the Dr.-Gustav-Bauckloh-Stiftung enabled new construction. Now the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln meets current EU standards with modern facilities.
In peak times, the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln admits around 100 birds annually. The Cologne fire department’s animal rescue and the police deliver many of these. Foresters, hunters, vets, and private citizens also bring birds. Common patients include buzzards and kestrels. Also sparrowhawks, hawks, tawny owls, barn owls, and little owls find refuge here. Rarer guests include red kites and hobbies. Also peregrine falcons, ospreys, marsh harriers, honey buzzards, eagle owls, and short-eared owls pass through. The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln releases all recovered animals into suitable habitats. The release rate exceeds 60%.
The Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald relies on donations. The city of Cologne provides some funding. Animal sponsorships and donations help too. However, the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln always needs more support. They seek donors to ensure its continued operation. Volunteers are welcome to assist during opening hours.
The Greifvogelschutzstation Köln maintains close ties with the Cologne Zoo. It also cooperates with the Greifvogelstation Wuppertal. The Waldkauz or tawny owl was the “Bird of the Year 2017”. This adaptable owl lives across Europe and Asia. It prefers forests but also inhabits parks and settlements.
A totempole stands here. It symbolizes the work of the station and the forest conservation association. Visit on Sundays and public holidays to witness this work. If you find an injured bird call the emergency number. Consider supporting the Greifvogelschutzstation Köln through donations or volunteering. Your help ensures the survival of these magnificent birds.