Study Presentation for Bund Naturschutz

After one full year of dedicated field research and careful data analysis, I had the honor of presenting the findings of my phenological survey to the Bund Naturschutz Vaterstetten on April 3rd, 2025.

Previously, I had shared these insights with Vaterstetten’s Municipal Green Group at the city hall in November and then, at the Mayor's request, with the City Council in March. These presentations led to a significant outcome: the city council agreed to enhance the protection measures for the Parsdorf Biotope. Despite clear signage warning visitors about the conservation status and importance of protecting breeding wildlife, many continued to trespass into the biotope for leisure purposes during this crucial time. Following my presentations, the council decided to upgrade the existing barrier to a proper fence—an unexpected but deeply satisfying result of my study! What started purely out of curiosity and passion for nature exploration had tangible, positive implications for local conservation.

Current barrier and sign forbidding trespassing during breeding months

But what exactly did my study uncover? That was precisely the topic I shared with the Bund Naturschutz Vaterstetten, an organization that supported my work from the very beginning, including the financing of a trail camera.

Over the course of the year, I documented 120 animal species actively using the biotope: 84 bird species, 8 mammals, 15 butterflies, 2 amphibians, and various other insects, spiders, and even one fish. Each species interacted with the biotope in unique ways—some as permanent residents, others as seasonal visitors during migration, and some simply using it occasionally as a feeding ground.

One significant discovery was the biotope’s unexpectedly rich biodiversity. Earlier articles had suggested only around 50 bird species sporadically passed through. However, my observations revealed a much more dynamic ecosystem with many species relying directly on the habitat for survival and reproductive success.

Notable species included the Little Ringed Plover, which depends on the semi-riparian gravel grounds for nesting and reproduction. Peregrine Falcons use the area as a seasonal stopover, preying on smaller songbirds. Sparrowhawks inhabit and hunt within the forested sections, while juvenile Red-backed Shrikes breed and develop first to find safety and sustenance before migrating south.

Explaining the consequences of trespassing for the Little Ringed Plover

The biotope also supports butterflies such as the Idas Blue from the Lycaenidae family—a species at risk of extinction in Germany due to habitat loss among other reasons— among others. This butterfly’s fascinating symbiotic relationship with ants finds an essential refuge here.

Mammals like foxes regularly find their love nest in the biotope, often observing visitors unnoticed. Badgers, heavily protected in Bavaria and throughout Germany, established a thriving family group here, foraging and interacting playfully during nighttime hours.

Yet, this ecological haven is not without challenges. Pollution remnants from previous industrial activities linger, and proximity to the highway introduces noise and environmental stress. Particularly concerning is the frequency with which people disregard protective measures, entering the sensitive breeding areas for recreation. This behavior appears directly linked to disruptions, such as the early departure of Little Ringed Plovers with likely effect of its unsuccessful breeding during the year of the research.

Overall, as highlighted in my presentation to the Bund Naturschutz Vaterstetten, the Parsdorf Biotope holds significantly richer wildlife than previously known. And most importantly, the findings from this study have extended beyond academic or nature-love interest—directly contributing to improved conservation efforts for our local wildlife!

You can find the video of the presentation here!