Description
The Knielinger See is one of many former gravel pits along the river Rhine and the largest waterbody in or around the city of Karlsruhe. It is easily accessible with good paths and numerous viewpoints. In winter, the lake hosts a large number of wintering ducks, grebes, herons, swans and geese. These include Rață pestriță , Rață moțată , Rață cu cap castaniu , Rață fluierătoare , Rață sunătoare , Rață lingurar , Rață mică , Corcodel mic and Corcodel mare. There are always a good variety of species present and rarer species such as Rață sulițar, Rață cu ciuf, Rață cu cap negru, Rață cârâitoare, Rață catifelată, Cufundar mic, Cormoran mic, Ferestraș moțat, Corcodel cu gât negru, Corcodel cu gât roșu , Corcodel de iarnă, Rață de ghețuri, Rață cucuiată and Eider have all been seen here before.
In spring and summer the lake itself is quieter, although there are still many interesting birds around: Chiră de baltă can be seen fishing and rarer terns such as Chirighiță neagră are possible. Gaie neagră are frequently seen in spring and summer. The woodlands and meadows surrounding the lake are home to a good number of species, such as Ciocănitoare neagră , Ghionoaie verde and Muscar sur. Warbler species such as Silvie de zăvoi or Silvie cu cap negru can be heard in spring, along with Privighetoare roșcată.
Details
Access
The area is best explored by bike or on a 6 km circular walk. There are three car parks, each within short walking distance of good viewpoints. The tram stop "Maxau" is ideally located for those using public transport (S5 / S51 trams from Karlsruhe Hbf).
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , LakeConditions
Flat , High water possibleCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
YesGood birding season
All year round , Winter , SpringBest time to visit
WinterRoute
Wide path , Narrow trailDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Foot , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
NoLinks
- eBird - Latest sightings and records
- Conservation and History of the Knielinger See (in German)
- Video showing clips of species that live and breed here

