The Zachariassee in Lippstadt is a relic of the former sand and gravel quarry. Gravel extraction created a diverse habitat with different water depths and shore zones. Many shallow banks, the light-colored beaches and the clean water provide ideal conditions for birdlife. In autumn and winter, the reserve is therefore a popular resting area for numerous migratory birds. Visitors can experience the impressive natural spectacle up close from a specially constructed observation hut.
Diversity of water birds in the Zachariassee Lippstadt nature reserve
Between August and October, when the migratory birds begin their journey to warmer climes, the Zachariassee is transformed into a veritable bird arena. In addition to numerous species of ducks such as herons, pochards, gadwalls and pintails, small flocks of waders such as sandpipers, ruffs, dunlins and sickle-billed sandpipers, wood sandpipers, green and redshanks can also be observed. When the temperatures drop, they are even joined by rare guests such as common and little mergansers, goldeneyes, black-throated and red-necked grebes as well as northern kingfishers and black-throated divers.
Tips for visiting the viewpoint at the quarry pond in the nature reserve north-east of LippstadtThe
following recommendations apply
fora successful visit:
- Best time: The months of September to March offer the greatest diversity of species.
- Equipment: Binoculars and an identification book are helpful.
- Quiet: Please observe the quiet zones so as not to disturb the animals.
