Ismaninger Speichersee und Fischteiche

Have you ever heard of a lake that was once a giant fish farm? Here, in front of you, stands the Ismaninger Speichersee, a man-made lake created in the 1920s, and the surrounding former fishponds that were once part of the Birkenhof estate. The Ismaninger Speichersee was built to regulate the water levels of the Isar Canal and to protect Munich from floods. The lake is also used for treating Munich’s wastewater. The unique mixture of fresh water and the treated wastewater creates a vibrant ecosystem, attracting a wide variety of birds. The lake and the former fishponds together cover an area of around 10 square kilometers, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
The Ismaninger Speichersee and the surrounding fishponds were declared an official bird protection area in 1962. They were designated a Ramsar site in 1976 and also have international significance as a breeding, foraging, molting, wintering, and migration area. Every summer, up to 100,000 waterbirds from all over Europe come here to molt and rest after the breeding season.
The Ismaninger Speichersee is one of the most important molting areas for waterbirds in Europe. It is also a perfect refuge for birds thanks to its rich supply of food and lack of disturbance. The fishponds, no longer used for fish farming, are also a vital part of the ecosystem. And you might also be interested in this smart-aleck fact: The Ismaninger Speichersee is home to a pair of sacred ibis that were the first to breed in Germany. The area is a reminder of how a man-made lake transformed into a sanctuary, hosting a wide range of birds, from the tiniest songbirds to the majestic swans. Take a moment to enjoy the spectacle of nature right here at the Ismaninger Speichersee and the former fishponds.