Eichkogel, Nature reserve summit in Mödling, Austria.
Eichkogel is a nature reserve summit at about 367 meters above sea level with dry grasslands, shrub forest, and a wide range of insects living on its slopes. The terrain contains several different protected habitats that exist side by side.
The mountain developed over thousands of years through soil deposits that created specific ground conditions. These special soils allowed rare plant and animal species to settle and establish themselves here.
The site attracts researchers who study how soil and rocks shape which plants and animals can live here. Visitors walking through notice how the landscape changes from open grassland to dense shrub zones.
The summit is accessible by foot from nearby areas, though hikers should expect uneven terrain and steeper sections along the way. The ascent takes several hours, so sturdy footwear and an early start help make the visit more comfortable.
The mountain holds an unusually high share of a specific animal group found nowhere else in such concentration. This remarkable density makes it a key site for conservation efforts across Europe.
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