Protest in East Frisia: Forests are threatened with deforestation and bat extinction!

Protest in East Frisia: Forests are threatened with deforestation and bat extinction!

There's a lot going on in Aurich, East Frisia. Around 500 demonstrators, including two local mayors, have come together to raise their voices against the threat of deforestation. Loud Picture An area of ​​more than four hectares near Wiegboldsbur will be earmarked for the chainsaws in just a few days. The protest, accompanied by posters and banners, highlights citizens' concerns, particularly the loss of valuable nature.

The focus of this deforestation is a forest that belongs to the Evangelical Church of Wiegboldsbur. Church board member Matthias Peiniger reports pressure from the state of Lower Saxony, which is threatening expropriation if the forest is not given up. As compensation, the church was offered an area on the edge of Wiegboldsbur, but this was rejected. Deforestation is scheduled to begin from October 1, 2025, and it is believed that many bats will have already left for their winter quarters by then.

Endangered bats

The forest is not only an important habitat for animals, but is also home to numerous endangered bat species. Loud BUND Lower Saxony Bats, like the brown long-eared bat, rely on old trees and structural diversity. These animals use different roosts and are particularly at risk during hibernation, which lasts from October to April.

The brown long-eared bat is known for its large ears, which are almost as long as its body. These animals hunt in forests and gardens, their diet consisting of flying insects, spiders and other small animals. In order for forest bats to survive, an intact habitat is of utmost importance. NABU Schleswig-Holstein emphasizes the need to pay attention to old trees with cavities when felling trees in order not to endanger the reproduction and life cycle of bats. Before felling a tree, it should therefore be examined carefully.

The long fight for the forest

The conflict over the forests in East Frisia is a test for nature conservation in the region. The NABU points out that deforestation not only endangers bats, but also the entire biodiversity in the forest. It remains to be seen whether the resistance of citizens and the church community against the country's plans can prevail. The needs of nature must be given greater consideration when planning forest use in order to preserve the habitat of the affected species.

The demonstrations are a sign that the people of East Frisia care about their forest. It remains to be hoped that a solution will be found that meets both the needs of nature and the needs of people.