Wildlife

The animal world of the Hochrhön

The most famous animal of the Rhön is certainly the black grouse. A small population is still at home here.

On the Wasserkuppe, besides jackdaws, skylarks, titmice and other wild birds, you can mainly observe birds of prey such as the buzzard, the red kite (Gabelweihe) or the peregrine falcon. Thanks to the network of hiking trails, the visitor can observe animals without disturbing their habitats.

The wild animals native to the Rhön can also be seen from time to time on the Wasserkuppe. Especially in the morning and evening hours, you can observe deer, stags, foxes, rabbits or even a badger at the edge of the forest.

Butterflies: Colourful diversity along the wayside

If you keep your eyes open during forays over the Wasserkuppe massif, you can discover many different butterfly species during the summer months. With a little patience and suitable equipment, the delicate sailors can also be photographed. It is especially thanks to the high biodiversity that many different species can still be found here.

Please note:

• It is not allowed to enter the marked areas of the airfield.
• Other particularly sensitive areas, which are also marked, may not be entered either.
• Do not damage, tear off, cut or dig up any plants!
• Do not touch or scare away animals!
• Dogs must always be kept on a leash!

Tip: Gersfeld Wildlife Park

Especially with children it is worth visiting the Gersfeld Wildlife Park, which can be reached in a few minutes by car from the Wasserkuppe. One of the most beautiful and natural wildlife parks in Germany awaits you.

The circular paths, which are mostly barrier-free, lead you through the idyllic Wiesental valley in Ehrengrund. Embedded all around in coniferous and mixed forest, the city of Gersfeld opened this wildlife park in July 1972. In the enclosures you will discover red, fallow and roe deer, sika, dybowski, mouflon and wild boar, ibex and chamois.

The animals will not be disturbed in their daily rhythm by you as guests. On the contrary, they look forward to a handful of food, which you can get at special feeding points along the paths. You can observe raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, pheasants, peacocks, partridges and pigeons up close.