Wettenberger Ried, Nature reserve in Hochdorf, Germany
Wettenberger Ried is a nature reserve between Hochdorf and Eberhardzell featuring wetlands, raised bogs, and water-soaked soil across its protected area. Walking through reveals distinct zones with open peat formations and scattered woodlands that create a mosaic of different habitats.
The area originated from two shallow lakes that formed during the last ice age over 180,000 years ago. Through natural filling and vegetation growth, these waters gradually became the raised bogs visible in the landscape today.
The area received protection status in 1982 and became a Bannwald in 2003, allowing the forest to develop naturally without human intervention.
A marked circular path of about 2.4 kilometers loops through the reserve and allows close observation of the bog plants. The route is easy to walk and provides several points to view the different habitat zones.
Dead spruce trunks scattered throughout create natural light gaps that allow peat moss to flourish. These fallen logs support the growth of specialized plant species and help regenerate the bog vegetation.
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