Nature hero Schwabe: This is how she saves endangered beetles in the Alzeyer region!

Nature hero Schwabe: This is how she saves endangered beetles in the Alzeyer region!

At a celebratory ceremony, Sabine Schwabe was honored for her extraordinary commitment to nature and species protection. On December 23, 2025, District Administrator Heiko Sippel presented her with the title “Volunteer of the Month for December”, an award that has been presented since 2023 and goes to an individual for the second time this month kreis-alzey-worms.de reported. In addition to a variety of other projects, Schwabe's outstanding work in detecting the beetle Nicrophorus germanicus, which was believed to be extinct, was particularly highlighted.

The committed conservationist has put over 900 hours into the “Death is Life” project in the Rosengarten nature reserve in Gundersheim. Their efforts resulted in an impressive increase of more than 400 percent in insect abundance after wild animal carcasses were laid out. Her research not only sheds light on the nutritional basis of the endangered wheatear, but also the influence of viticulture on insect diversity in the region.

A rare beetle and its meaning

The Nicrophorus germanicus, also known as the German gravedigger, is one of the largest gravedigger species in Europe. Its occurrence was proven in 2024 in the Kalksteinbrecher Rosengarten nature reserve, which falls within the legally protected areas. In the course of her insect surveys, Schwabe was able to find a total of 12 specimens in an expanded area, which is of great importance for the region as this species is listed as threatened with extinction in Germany's Red List ( coleo.eu ).

Schwabe's project not only covers the presence of Nicrophorus germanicus, but also plays a valuable role in the field of biodiversity. A total of 11 additional species of carrion beetles were detected, which illustrates the great importance of the limestone quarry for regional biodiversity. It is becoming clear that special care and protection measures are required to preserve these rare species and protect their habitats.

Commitment to nature and children

Until 2024, Sabine Schwabe was also the volunteer leader of the nature children's group “The BUNDspechts”. She enthusiastically imparted knowledge about the local flora and fauna to children between the ages of three and ten. “It is important to raise awareness among our youngest children about protecting nature,” she explains. Their educational work, which also includes excursions, lectures and an active social media presence, helps to raise awareness about protecting insects and their habitats.

The commitment to nature and species protection is a task that is becoming increasingly important. Endangered species such as beavers, otters and wolves are also under pressure, as on the platform Nature conservation initiative is emphasized. Support is needed - be it through donations or volunteer help to preserve and protect the valuable habitats of these animals.

Sabine Schwabe's example impressively shows how individual initiative and commitment can make a decisive contribution to preserving biodiversity in our region. Your award reminds us how important it is to stand up for our nature.