Öberauer Donauschleife, Protected area along the Danube River in Kirchroth, Germany
The Öberauer Donauschleife is a protected area centered around a pronounced bend of the Danube River near Straubing. The landscape combines wet meadows, remnant floodplain forests, and open water surfaces that form a varied mosaic of habitats.
The area received official protection status in 1986 following construction of the Straubing dam. This designation aimed to safeguard the natural floodplain habitats that had been disrupted by the dam construction.
The reserve forms part of the Natura 2000 network, representing the traditional Bavarian approach to preserving natural river landscapes and their ecosystems.
A walking trail runs through the area with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for visitors of varying abilities. The parking area between the reservoir and the village of Öberau provides a convenient starting point.
The area serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds traveling across Europe each year. Visitors may observe rare species such as squacco herons and various duck species that use this location during their seasonal journeys.
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