Birdwatching at the Friedländer ponds

Start / Finish: Friedland, Dammfließ

Length / Duration: 8 kilometers, 2 hours

Nature of the path / route: mainly natural paths

Course: Friedland, Friedländer Tal, Zeuster See, Zeust, Friedländer Tal, Friedland

Route description

The tour starts in the south of the ponds on the Dammühlenfließ. The deep, booming mating calls of the fire-bellied toads can already be heard here in spring. It is worth taking a look at the open water surface: little grebes and great crested grebes can regularly be observed here.

The path first leads northwest to Beeskower Straße, which is followed for about 500 meters to the north. Caution: This road is very busy. A short detour to the right onto a cul-de-sac opens up one of the best views of the area. The reed-rich shore area with its shallow bays provides an ideal habitat for garganey, shoveler and teal. Curlews, snipes and wood sandpipers also use the wetlands as a resting place. Greylag geese regularly breed here, and occasionally whooper swans even settle here during the breeding season.

Back on Beeskower Straße, the path continues north until after 500 meters a narrow path branches off to the right towards Zeust. A short detour into the village is worthwhile for a view of Lake Zeust, where redstarts and barn swallows can often be seen.

The circular trail continues east for another 400 meters before turning sharply south. The densely overgrown hedges and tall shrubs along the path are popular retreats for blackcaps, whitethroats and garden warblers. Red-backed shrikes and turtle doves can also be seen here occasionally. Marsh harriers patrol regularly in search of prey and, with a bit of luck, a tree falcon or honey buzzard can be spotted.

Finally, the trail follows the Friedländer Tal back to the paved road. From here, it is only a few meters back to the starting point.

Additional tips:

• 
  Best time: Many rare bird species can be spotted, especially during the migration periods in spring and fall.
• 
  Equipment: Binoculars and a little patience increase the chances of exciting observations.
• 
  Caution: Some paths are natural and can be slippery after rain.