Krickenbecker Seen

The Krickenbecker Seen consist of four fairly large lakes, which originated between the 16th and 19th century due to peat extraction. In 1938, the area became a protected nature reserve due to its large variety of flora and fauna. Especially in winter, the area is a very good location for waterfowl, like ducks, geese and herons. The surrounding forests are good for songbirds and woodpeckers.

The two largest lakes, called Glabbacher Bruch and Hinsbecker Bruch, contain the largest numbers of waterfowl during the winter months. Large flocks of Stokkönd, Skutulönd, Skeiðönd and Gargönd can be found in flocks of 100+ individuals. Also Gulönd and Hvítönd can be observed fairly regularly. During autumn migration, the area is apparently favorable for migrating waterbirds, like Kolþerna and Dvergmáfur. In the last ten years, even observations of Rita, Ránþerna and Þernumáfur have been made.

The two smaller lakes, called Schrolik and Poelvenn, are located on the western side of the larger lakes and are also a very good spot for waterfowl, but in smaller numbers. Species like Urtönd can be found here too. The shores are covered more with reedbeds and therefore a very good place for reedbirds, like Sefsöngvari and Seftittlingur and sometimes even Engisöngvari, Kampameisa and Blábrystingur.

The lakes are connected to the Nette river, which is a very good location for Bláþyrill and Straumerla.

The area is also a good spot for migrating raptors, especially above the lakes, like Svölugleða, Vatnagleða and Gjóður.

The surrounding forests are an ideal location for typical forest species, Hettusöngvari, Garðaskotta and Flekkugrípur. Also, many woodpeckers can be found here, like Fauskspæta and Svartspæta.