Description
The Oeseteiche are a remnant of a former water treatment plant. The site is now a floodwater retention basin and nature reserve. The site is very easy to access and the circular path (1,3 km) offers good views of the ponds, stream and surrounding woodlands. A good number of ducks and other waterbirds can be seen here, especially in winter. Commoner species usually present include kanadanhanhi, kyhmyjoutsen, harmaasorsa, sinisorsa, tukkasotka, pikku-uikku, nokikana, Liejukana, merimetso, jalohaikara, harmaahaikara and kuningaskalastaja. Sometimes they are joined by afrikanhanhi and ruostesorsa.
With a bit of luck and favourable water levels, it is possible to see heinätavi, rantasipi and pikkutylli here. Along the course of the Oese, there is a good chance of seeing koskikara and virtavästäräkki. The surrounding woodland is also home to a good number of species, including some more uncommon species like lehtokerttu, harmaasieppo , metsäkirvinen, palokärki and nokkavarpunen.
Details
Access
The Oeseteiche are located south of the town of Menden. There is a car park just off the road and a nice circular path around the ponds with a number of good vantage points (and a viewing screen). Click on the P in the map for directions to the parking.
