Bat night in the Peenetal: nature experience for young and old!

Bat night in the Peenetal: nature experience for young and old!

The 12th Bat Night in the “Peenetal River Landscape” nature park and the Villa Eden on the Gützkower Fährdamm recently attracted numerous nature enthusiasts. Organized by those responsible for the Nature Park and the support association, the participants had on the 14th. September 2025 will be the opportunity not only to gain fascinating insights into the world of bats, but also to learn more about the rich flora and fauna of the Peene Valley.

Dr. Frank Hennicke, the head of the nature park, led the group of 45 participants on an exciting hike through the Peenetal. Not only were the endangered bats reported, but also the influence of humans and nature on the ecosystem. The participants were informed about the “false white stem cup” fungus, which primarily threatens the alder and ash trees in the region - after all, the alder is the only deciduous tree in Germany that forms cones.

Habitats and wildlife

The Peenetal is considered one of the last undeveloped rivers in Germany and stretches over 83 kilometers, starting at Lake Kummerow and ending at the Peenestrom. The waters are not only home to around 1,000 beavers, but also to many other animals and plants. As naturpark-flusslandschaft-peenetal.de emphasizes, it is one of the largest contiguous fen areas of Central Europe, which is home to a variety of rare moor plants such as Baltic orchid.

Not only bats, but also many bird species, such as lesser spotted eagles and lapwings, depend on these habitats. They are threatened by various human activities, such as agriculture, which has led to the destruction of natural areas since the 17th century. The complex improvement of the 1970s caused by social developments ultimately led to a dramatic loss of habitats in the region.

Bats in focus

The event also drew attention to the threat to the bat population. There are currently 25 different bat species in Germany, but most of them are critically endangered. As NABU explains, populations have collapsed dramatically since the 1950s. Not only are bats fascinating creatures, they also play an important role in the ecosystem, eating up to 10 grams of insects per night.

A central point during the hike was raising awareness about the threats these animals face. Habitat loss due to urban sprawl, chemical hazards and prejudice against these shellfish are just some of the causes that have led to their decline. Protective measures, such as installing bat boxes and securing roosts, are considered essential to preserving the remaining species.

The fascinating impressions and information from the hike showed that there is still a lot to discover in the Peenetal. With a good hand for nature, the next bat night will certainly attract many visitors again.