Nsg Bielenberg

Summary

Bielenberg Nature Reserve protects valuable beech forests, limestone semi-dry grasslands, and tall oat-grass meadows. It's a key winter roost for bats like the Greater Mouse-eared Bat in historic limestone adits, and a vital biotope network hub.

Description

Bielenberg Nature Reserve near Höxter preserves a unique landscape. It features valuable woodruff, pea, sedge, and orchid-rich limestone beech forests. Additionally, protected limestone semi-dry grasslands, tall oat-grass meadows, blackthorn-privet thickets, and middle clover fringes characterize the area. Natural stream courses, juniper stands, and limestone cliffs with crevice vegetation also contribute to its rich biodiversity. This area holds significant scientific and natural historical importance, serving as a crucial hub in the regional biotope network. It is part of the European Natura 2000 network ("Bielenberg mit Stollen"). A remarkable feature is the old, extensive pioneer adit within the Muschelkalk (shell limestone). This adit provides an essential and undisturbed winter roost for numerous bat species, including the Greater Mouse-eared Bat and Pond Bat. Its varied microclimatic conditions and intricate tunnel system are crucial for the conservation of these protected species.