Protected animals have shaped the natural landscape in Weiterstadt for years
Beavers have been established at Steinrodsee lake and along the Apfelbach stream in Weiterstadt for several years. According to the city, the strictly protected rodent has successfully settled there.
Several animals are active in the area
During an inspection, Mayor Niklas Gehnich, together with representatives from the environmental office, assessed the current situation. According to the experts, several animals now live in the area.
Because beavers are crepuscular and nocturnal, they are rarely observed. Typical signs of their presence include gnawed or felled trees and traces of their construction along waterways.
Protective measures and restrictions
To avoid disturbing the animals, activities at Steinrodsee are prohibited in the evening and at night. The city regularly monitors beaver activity, especially during the winter months.
To protect individual trees, wire mesh or special protective coatings are used. At the same time, felled or gnawed trees are left in place unless they pose a danger. This is intended to prevent beavers from damaging other healthy trees.
Lifestyle of the animals
Beavers feed primarily on plants in the summer, but increasingly on bark and buds in the winter. To obtain these, they selectively fell trees, whose wood they also use to build dams and lodges.
Softwoods such as willow, poplar, or birch are preferred. Occasionally, however, other tree species are also gnawed on.
Appeal to the population
The city of Weiterstadt requests that the protective measures be respected and that consideration be shown to the animals. The goal is a lasting coexistence of people and nature in the sensitive habitat around Steinrodsee.
(WEITERSTADT – RED/PSW)
