Have you ever felt the hushed reverence of a forest? Welcome to the NSG Wickeder Ostholz. This isn’t just any woodland. This is a 45.5 hectare haven a protected sanctuary teeming with life.
The NSG Wickeder Ostholz located in Dortmund’s Brackel district is more than just trees and greenery. It’s a story etched in time. Parts of it were first recognized in 1996 as a protected landscape component. Its official status as a nature reserve came later in 2005. This careful designation reflects the rich biodiversity within.
Imagine a tapestry woven with oak and hornbeam beech and red beech poplar ash and sycamore. Underneath a soft carpet of wood brome grass spreads. The NSG Wickeder Ostholz is a haven for birds. Over 100 species have been recorded here. This includes the goldcrest the hawfinch and the great spotted woodpecker.
But the NSG Wickeder Ostholz holds a surprise. In 2007 a new lake appeared the Pleckenbrinksee. This unexpected body of water formed because of a mine subsidence. Now it covers over 5.6 hectares. Its greatest depth is a modest 1.5 meters. Yet it’s become a vital habitat. Birds such as the coot Canada goose and grey heron now call it home. The various ponds scattered throughout the Ostholz provide crucial breeding grounds. Crested newts common newts common toads and grass frogs thrive here.
The NSG Wickeder Ostholz is a testament to nature’s resilience. It’s a reminder that even in densely populated areas pockets of wilderness can flourish. This sanctuary of trees and water is not just a place of beauty. It’s a vital ecosystem supporting an incredible array of flora and fauna. The careful balance between nature and human interaction is crucial for its preservation. The future of the NSG Wickeder Ostholz depends on our continued respect for this delicate and vibrant ecosystem. Let’s ensure that future generations can experience its wonder.