Rhein on flames: How fireworks birds are frightened

Rhein on flames: City of Bonn reacts to disturbing video

A recently published video from 2025 from the fireworks "Rhein on Flames" ensures concern and outrage among the population. The recordings show dozens of birds that flutter around and panicked on the Rheinauensee, while the fireworks take place in the background. These pictures create a frightening picture that gives many spectators the impression that they came from a crisis situation.

Reaction of the city of Bonn to the video

On request, the city of Bonn said that nature and species protection was already a concern before the event. A planning office was commissioned for the event to observe the effects of fireworks on the bird population. These monitoring measures should capture the breeding stocks before and after the fireworks and the behavior of the birds during the event.

Observations and new measures for 2026

In view of the concerns regarding animal welfare, the city of Bonn made some changes in the previous year. This includes the shortening of the fireworks duration and the waiver of louder bang effects. For the coming years, Bonn also plans to legally develop the event, taking into account nature and species protection. As early as 2023, it was decided that fireworks will also take place in the following years for final illumination by 2026.

Expert opinion: Critical voices for the event

The animal rights activist and video manufacturer Stefan Bröckling expressed his irritation about the late critical view of the event. He emphasizes that it should not only be about species protection, but also about ethical responsibility when carrying out fireworks during the breeding season in a nature reserve. The impression that the measures of the city are not sufficient strengthens the concern for the well -being of the animals.

Developments in the discussion

The discussion about the fireworks "Rhein in Flames" emphasizes how important it is to look at both aspects - adhering to traditions and the protection of the wildlife. Experts note that many possible negative effects on animal populations cannot be documented, which is why a deeper examination of the topic is urgently required.