Wildgehege Hellenthal

Wildgehege Hellenthal is a wildlife park in North Rhine-Westphalia set across expansive grounds with red deer, fallow deer, lynxes, and wildcats. The facility also operates a specialized section dedicated to raptors including eagles, falcons, and hawks.

The park began in the 1960s with the goal of displaying local wildlife in naturalistic settings. A raptor care and breeding program developed later to help injured birds and support endangered species recovery.

The name reflects the local wild landscape and connects to the area's hunting heritage. Visitors watch falconers work with trained eagles and hawks daily, seeing traditional methods of working with birds of prey come alive.

The grounds are easy to explore on foot with marked trails suitable for different fitness levels. There are plenty of rest areas and shaded spots to take breaks during your visit.

The park displays Tarpans, modern horses bred to retain characteristics of their extinct ancestors, offering visitors a rare glimpse into prehistoric European wildlife. These animals result from breeding programs designed to reconstruct extinct species through living examples.

Location: Hellenthal

Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible

Opening Hours: April-October Monday-Sunday, Holidays 09:00-18:00; November-March Monday-Sunday, Holidays 10:00-16:00

Website: http://greifvogelstation-hellenthal.de

GPS coordinates: 50.50170,6.42694

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09