Whispers of history linger in the Twedter Feld. This unique nature reserve sits quietly on the edge of Flensburg. It’s a place where the past intertwines with the present. A place where nature has reclaimed its space.
The Twedter Feld wasn’t always a haven for wildlife. For centuries people used this land. Farmers cleared the ancient beech forest for farmland and grazing. They even harvested peat from the bogs. The name Twedt itself hints at this history. It comes from the Viking age and means clearing.
Then came the military. In the early 20th century the area became a training ground. First for the navy then for the Bundeswehr. The frequent use for military training activities had a significant impact. It actually changed the local biodiversity. Intensive military usage kept out other intensive land uses. This unintentional conservation effort allowed the flora and fauna to recover.
This unusual history created a remarkable environment. A naturally regenerated forest grew in the north. It’s a rare example of a successional forest a forest growing without human intervention. This is quite unique in Germany. The southern part contrasts sharply. It features open grasslands and wetlands. The area is a mosaic of habitats. This variety supports a stunning diversity of life.
Over 300 flowering plants thrive here. Almost 80 species of moss carpet the forest floor. There are more than 700 types of fungi. The abundance of deadwood supports this fungal richness. You might spot the scarlet elf cup in spring. Or perhaps the parasitic bolete a rare fungus that grows on puffballs.
The Twedter Feld is also a birdwatcher’s paradise. Over 100 bird species have been observed. Common breeders include the wren blue tit great tit and song thrush. But rarer species also appear. These include the woodcock great snipe and even the red kite.
To enhance nature viewing three observation points were built. From these vantage points you can observe wildlife in its natural habitat without disturbing it. Look carefully. You might spot deer or hares. Or perhaps a grey heron stalking its prey along the Mühlenbek stream. At dusk the bats appear. Look for the brown long-eared bat.
The NABU the German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union actively manages the Twedter Feld. The NABU’s efforts have been successful. The biodiversity of the area has greatly improved. They’ve created new wetlands and restored old drainage systems. They also employ controlled grazing with sheep. This helps maintain the open grasslands and prevents the encroachment of shrubs.
The Twedter Feld is more than just a nature reserve. It’s a testament to the resilience of nature. It’s a place where history and ecology meet. It’s a little slice of wildness right in the heart of Flensburg. It’s a place to visit again and again and to appreciate its natural beauty and historical significance.