Lange Dreisch und Osterberg, Protected area in Hildesheim, Germany
Lange Dreisch und Osterberg is a nature reserve in northwestern Hildesheim covering more than 200 hectares with grasslands, forests, shrubland, and open meadows. The terrain shows a mix of different habitats that blend together and support many species of plants and animals.
Originally common grazing land, the area became a military shooting range in 1937 and served the German army for decades until closure in 2007. Its conversion to a nature reserve followed, protecting the special habitats that had developed on the site.
Sheep still graze across these fields much as they have for generations, keeping the grasslands open and varied. This traditional farming is what allows the rare plants and animals here to thrive.
The area is open to visitors and good for walking or short strolls on meadow paths and forest trails. Keep to the marked paths since the landscape is fragile and protecting the rare species here is important.
Old ammunition bunkers left from military times now serve as winter shelters for bats. Temporary pools in the reserve also host an ancient shrimplike creature that has existed for millions of years.
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