Description
The Sacker Schnepfensumpf near Nuremberg is a species-rich bird habitat and a popular destination for birdwatching. It is a biotope that also serves as a rainwater retention basin. It is fed by the Bucher Landgraben, which flows through the Knoblauchsland from east to west. Quite narrow in the west, the rainwater retention basin widens considerably towards the middle of the water.
Sacker Schnepfensumpf is a standing body of water that is known among ornithologists and birdwatchers as a promising resting place for birds, especially during the autumn and spring migrations. With the surrounding wetlands and reed beds, the area covers almost 10,000 square meters and measures a maximum of 150 meters at its widest point. Before 2013, the area was used solely for agricultural purposes. Since then, it has been restructured into a wetland, creating a natural area with high biodiversity.
The Sacker Schnepfensumpf, together with the surrounding fields, is one of the last refuges for wading birds in the Nuremberg, Fürth, and Erlangen conurbation. It is comprised of a small pond with lush reed growth at the edges and provides an ideal habitat for various bird species. Benches have been set up at both ends of the pond, inviting visitors to sit and watch the birds.
The adjacent fields are interesting for observing Northern Lapwing and, in autumn, Grey Partridge. If the fields are flooded in autumn and puddles form, there may also be surprising sightings during the autumn migration, e.g., Grey Plover and European Golden Plover.
Currently, 119 different species are listed on eBird – unusual for such a small area in this exposed location.
The biotope is an important attraction for Northern Lapwing, which breed and raise their young there. Common Snipe can be observed regularly. The Common Kingfisher that attract many photographers. In addition, rare species such as Spotted Crake, Jack Snipe, or Western Marsh Harrier can be encountered at times.
The area is also interesting for migratory birds that stop here to rest. The best times for observing wading birds are often the spring and autumn migrations.
Details
Access
Sacker Schnepfensumpf is located between the Bucher Landgraben and Braunsbacher Straße in Nuremberg. The site can be reached directly by car. A small number of parking spaces are available directly at the pond.
The spot is also accessible by public transportation: it is a 15min cycle from Vach station on the S Bahn, or a 10 min walk from the nearest bus stop (Sack Mitte on the 179 Bus)
The area can be easily accessed and explored by cycle and hiking trails. The circular route drawn on the map is 1.7 km long.
Terrain and Habitat
Pond , Agriculture , Scattered trees and bushes , ReedbedsConditions
Flat , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Autumn migrationRoute
Paved road , Wide path , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , Wheelchair , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
The local farmers do not like it when people walk across their fields. Please stay on the paths. Everything there is to see can be observed from there.

