Over there stretches a unique habitat. It is the Oberurseler Stadtwald und Stierstädter Heide. This protected area in Oberursel is part of the Natura 2000 network. It safeguards rare species and habitats.
The Oberurseler Stadtwald und Stierstädter Heide spans 5.34 square kilometers. It features dry European heaths. These heaths and the Bechstein’s bat make it special. The area lies mostly within Oberursel. A small part extends into Steinbach. The northern part belongs to the High Taunus. The southern part is in the Kronberger Taunus foothills.
Most of the land is publicly owned. Small sections are privately held. The Königstein Forestry Office manages the conservation. The area mainly consists of sediments. There are Pleistocene gravels and sands. Holocene solifluction covers also exist. Some parts are used for coppicing and recreation.
The Stierstädter Heide is a 3.2-hectare heath. It originated in the Middle Ages. Residents cleared the area for humus. They used it to fertilize fields. This created poor soil ideal for heather.
The most extensive habitat is the Hainsimsen-beech forest. This forest and the dry heaths are in good condition. However montane grasslands and alder-ash forests are in poor condition.
The Bechstein’s bat is a protected species. Many other bat species live here too. Several lizard species and the common grasshopper inhabit the heath. Heather and wavy hair-grass also grow here.
Conservation aims to preserve the beech forest. It also protects the heath and the Bechstein’s bat population. Improving the condition of grasslands and alder forests is another goal.
For 2024 a good condition is expected for all habitats. But a decline from excellent to good is predicted for the Bechstein’s bat.
Plant populations face threats. These include encroachment and aging. Bats are threatened by sparse old trees. Closed rejuvenation and a sparse canopy also pose risks. The B455 highway running through the area is a danger.
Various measures protect the area. Old oaks and beeches will be preserved. This ensures deadwood. Coniferous forests will be converted to mixed deciduous forests. Summer bat roosts will be secured. Open areas will be maintained. Bat boxes are planned.
The heath is regularly cleared of bushes. It is rejuvenated four times a year. This happens in autumn and winter. The Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald Oberursel oversees this. The humus layer is also regularly removed.
The Oberurseler Stadtwald und Stierstädter Heide showcases conservation efforts. These efforts maintain biodiversity near Frankfurt. It is a place where history and nature intertwine. It offers a valuable habitat for many species. It provides recreation for visitors. Preserving this area is a continuous process. It requires ongoing management and dedication. This ensures its ecological value for future generations.