Imagine standing here at the edge of the NSG Fauler See. This green oasis sits right in the middle of the city. It offers a serene escape from the urban bustle.
The NSG Fauler See is a natural lake in Berlin’s Pankow district. It shares its name with the surrounding park and nature reserve. This reserve spans almost 25 hectares. The lake itself occupies about one-fifth of the area.
Before 1920, the entire area belonged to the Hohenschönhausen manor. In 1933, authorities declared it a nature reserve. The lake formed naturally during the retreat of the glaciers.
What’s unique about the NSG Fauler See is its location. It is in the middle of Berlin. Even a short break here can provide peace. One can meditate surrounded by nature.
Feel free to jog or walk around the lake. You can sit and listen to the birds. There are not many benches. Some consider this a positive aspect for sustainable travel.
The NSG Fauler See is located in the Weißensee district. It borders the Lichtenberg district. If you venture off the main paths, you will find perfect spots for photos.
The lake is a dead lake. It has no natural inlet. Storm drains feed relatively impure water into the NSG Fauler See. To prevent silting, the reeds are removed regularly. Mud is dredged. A ditch system connects to the Panke River. This forms a partial outlet.
The groundwater floor is 20-30 meters below.
This nature reserve is home to many species. You can find chickens and waterfowl. Ducks and teals abound. Songbirds also thrive here. About 40 breeding bird species were counted in the 1980s.
Getting here is easy. After all, the NSG Fauler See is in the middle of the city. Several tram and bus stops are nearby. Lines 27, M4, or M13 will get you close. You can also reach the park on foot or by bicycle.
Bird lovers have long appreciated the NSG Fauler See area. A total of 142 bird species have been observed. Eighty species are seen regularly. It is not surprising that the NSG Fauler See is one of Berlin’s oldest nature reserves.
Like many Berlin waters, the NSG Fauler See owes its existence to a block of dead ice. Today, the lake is mainly fed by rainwater. A dam was built at the outflow to prevent drying out.
The NSG Fauler See has no natural inflow. It is fed by rainwater runoff. Many animal species have settled in the nature reserve. Birds and amphibians are plentiful. You might spot moor frogs and grass frogs in the lake.
A visit in the morning or evening is especially appealing. This is particularly true in spring and early summer. You can hear a rich bird concert. There is a viewing platform. It is in the southeast of the lake. Use it to observe the waterfowl.
The NSG Fauler See is a testament to nature’s resilience. It shows that even in a bustling city, a tranquil oasis can flourish. Take a moment to appreciate the biodiversity. Respect this unique urban ecosystem. Let the sounds of nature rejuvenate you.