Volunteers save capercaillie: nature conservation campaign on Rohrhardsberg!

Volunteers save capercaillie: nature conservation campaign on Rohrhardsberg!

Last weekend, committed volunteers took part in a special campaign on Rohrhardsberg that was all about capercaillie. Organized by the Southern Black Forest Nature Park, the 17 participants set off motivated, despite the autumnal weather, to create a habitat for the highly endangered capercaillie. This is reported by the Black Forest messenger.

Under the guidance of Johannes von Stemm and district manager Peter Kleiser, many of the helpers, who had already taken part several times, were full of enthusiasm. A mixture of young and old, the oldest participants were up to 81 years old, cleared runways for the shy capercaillie, cut young trees and bushes and ensured that the birds found a safe place to land.

Important habitats for the capercaillie

The capercaillie is considered a characteristic bird of the Black Forest, but is unfortunately threatened with extinction. In 2024, only around 222 capercaillie were counted, underlining the urgency of these measures. Capercaillie need light, structured stands of coniferous wood with well-developed ground vegetation, including blueberries. Human care interventions are essential to create and maintain these conditions, as stated on the website of the Black Forest Nature Park is explained.

The helpers in the campaign on Rohrhardsberg contributed to habitat maintenance by creating clear space through deforestation. Sawed material was removed to promote the growth of vital blueberry areas, which in turn has a direct impact on the living conditions of the capercaillie. Most participants plan to contribute again next year, which shows that a real sense of community has emerged.

Cooperation for the conservation of the capercaillie

Capercaillie conservation requires close collaboration between different stakeholders. The Capercaillie Club plays a central role and offers a contact point for forest owners, foresters, hunters and conservationists who are committed to the conservation of this important bird. The association's tasks include not only habitat design, but also the implementation of a comprehensive action plan aimed at preserving and promoting the capercaillie population in the Black Forest.

The dedicated volunteers at Rohrhardsberg are another example of how important it is to stand up for nature. Together they are fighting to ensure that the capercaillie, a symbol of the diversity of the local flora and fauna, does not disappear from the forests of our Black Forest.