Ever wondered where Cologne embraces Bergisch Gladbach? That’s where the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald resides. This nature reserve marks the northeastern edge of Cologne. Let’s dive into the story of Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
Designated in 1969, the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald spans 59 hectares in Dellbrück. It extends over three hectares into Bergisch Gladbach-Hand. Imagine a place so special it’s recognized across Europe. The Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald earned this distinction. It protects habitats for wild animals and plants.
What makes the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald so unique? Its biodiversity is remarkable. The area hosts diverse water insects amphibians and butterflies. The geological mix of acidic and calcareous soils creates ideal conditions. Dry and wet areas intermingle. This supports unique flora and fauna in the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
In the northwest sits a rare habitat. It is a transitional moor which is unusual for Cologne. It evolved from an abandoned pond. This moor features sphagnum moss. These mosses store significant water aiding the moor’s preservation. This environment is a haven for endangered dragonfly species in the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
The eastern part reveals the Katharinenkammer. This is the most valuable section with its calcareous fen. Several lime springs feed the moor creating a unique ecosystem. The Katharinenkammer is the only calcareous fen on the Bergische Heideterrasse. It showcases rare well-preserved habitats. Many endangered species thrive here.
The Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald includes several important habitats. There are blue moor grass meadows and transitional bogs. You can also find calcareous fens and alder-ash forests. These areas support a range of plant and animal life.
In lower areas alder forests flourish with extensive sedge populations. Drier spots host calcareous blue moor grass meadows. The ponds near Paffrather Straße have improved ecologically. They now provide crucial habitats for amphibians and waterfowl thanks to careful management in the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
Efforts continue to protect this precious area. In 2019 a concept was developed for the Katharinenkammer. By late 2020 repairs were made to dam sections. These dams slow the flow of water which helps maintain the calcareous fen. Removal of some tall herbs encourages the development of specific species. These include the scarce blue hawker and the round-mouthed whorl snail in the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
In 2020 the EU-funded project IP-LIFE Atlantic Sand Landscapes was implemented. Sections of supply routes were cleared. The dune area was expanded. This created more open land for the protected sand lizard.
Visiting the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald requires awareness. There are conflicting interests. People want to enjoy this beautiful landscape. Yet there is a need to protect its sensitive environment. Since 1991 nature conservation has taken precedence. Please stick to designated paths. Keep dogs on leashes. Avoid making noise and do not leave any trash behind. Access is restricted in certain areas to protect vulnerable species. Events are not permitted within the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald.
So, remember as you wander through the Thielenbruch und Thurner Wald you are walking through a living sanctuary. Your respect helps preserve this exceptional habitat for generations.