NSG Oberes Kalltal mit Nebenbaechen

Summary

Oberes Kalltal with its tributaries protects diverse wetlands, stream habitats, and valuable meadows. It's vital for species like beaver, kingfisher, and rare butterflies, contributing to a rich biodiversity.

Description

The 'Oberes Kalltal with Tributaries' nature reserve is a vital part of the European Natura 2000 network, safeguarding a diverse natural landscape. This area is characterized by its dynamic stream system and extensive wetlands. It preserves watercourses with submerged vegetation, rich lowland hay meadows, and wet heathlands. Efforts are also underway to restore humid heaths with bell heather and protect European dry heaths. The reserve is a crucial habitat for numerous endangered animals and plants. It supports populations of the beaver and the greater mouse-eared bat. Bird enthusiasts can spot the kingfisher and the whinchat, among other migratory birds. Rare butterflies like the violet copperspot, bog fritillary, and scarce copper thrive here, alongside unique plants such as marsh gentian and bog asphodel. The area's various biotope types, including natural stream sections, fens, swamp forests, and wet grasslands, create a complex and rare ecosystem in North Rhine-Westphalia, providing essential interconnected biotopes for species like the otter.