Description
The Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee is a meander cutoff of the river Rhine and a nature reserve. The neighbouring lake (gravel pit), Alb stream and mixed woodland complete the rich array of habitats. Throughout the year, various wetland birds can be seen on the waterbodies: Rață mare, Corcodel mare, Rață mică, Rață pestriță, Pescăruș cu picioare galbene and Cormoran mare (including a sizeable nesting colony) are present for most of the year.
In winter, small groups of Rață moțată, Rață sunătoare and Rață lingurar can also be seen. In late spring and summer Chiră de baltă and Gaie neagră can be seen over / near the lake. In spring and summer, the surrounding woodlands and lakeside undergrowth are home to a number of interesting species. Both Muscar sur and Muscar negru can be heard and observed here. With a bit of luck, you might be treated to the otherworldly techno-style song and a glimpse of an Frunzăriță galbenă.
The surrounding woodland is also a great place to observe woodpeckers. With luck and patience it is possible to observe Ciocănitoare pestriță mare, Ciocănitoare de stejar, Ciocănitoare pestriță mică, Ghionoaie verde, Ghionoaie sură and Ciocănitoare neagră.
Details
Access
Altrhein Kleiner Bodensee is located directly north of the city of Karlsruhe. It is possible to walk or cycle around the lake. The circular path is just over 5 km long. There are good parking possibilities, but some paths are tricky to access for people with mobility issues. Click on a P in the map for directions to a parking spot.
