Description
The island is protected nature and well maintained. It is a collection of forest patches and variety of gardens and ponds. Due to its very old trees it is home to many woodland birds and one of the most reliable sites in Berlin for Mellemflagspætte. Other birds include Munk , Rødrygget Tornskade , Træløber , Korttået Træløber , Spætmejse , Gulbug various woodpeckers, various reedbirds and waterfowl, and birds of prey such as kites and buzzards and even Havørn can be seen flying over or fishing on the nearby river and lake. And of course Pfaueninsel (meaning Peacock Island) is home to introduced Peacocks that walk freely across the island.
Apart from the birdlife, this UNESCO heritage site is worth a visit for its history. Owned by several Royals throughout the ages it has ancient buildings scattered across the island.
Details
Access
The only way to get on the island is by boat. There is ferry running most of the year that for a small fee sets you across. As the island is just of the shore the crossing doesn't take more than a few minutes but you may have to wait a little for the ferry if it has just left. To get to the ferry pier you can go by car, there is parking near the Pier, as well as a bus stop. There is plenty of information on this site available online.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , River , Lake , ReedbedsConditions
Flat , WetCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Spring , Autumn , SummerBest time to visit
Spring migration , Spring , SummerRoute
Paved roadDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The ferry lands at the SW side of the island and most tourist starts walking north. As a birder you'd like to avoid the crowds, so best start by going south. You will get the south shore of the island pretty quickly with lots of reedbeds and old trees that are home to warblers, woodpeckers and more. It also gives a nice view over the lake. Once you have exhausted the possibles here, start moving up north along the west side of the island which will be quiter. Especially in summer weekends the place is a main tourist attraction. You should count on approx. 2 hours to get around the island.
