Behavior in Naturpark Hohe Mark to protect nature

Dogs are welcome – with respect for nature.

It's perfectly natural for dogs to roam curiously through woods and meadows. However, this can become a problem for some animals. Even if a dog disturbs a ground-nesting bird, the nest can be discovered – and then quickly become prey for crows or other nest predators.

Even larger wild animals are stressed by free-roaming dogs. Deer, for example, instinctively flee as soon as they perceive a dog and are often chased for considerable distances. This causes the animals enormous fear and high energy expenditure. Especially in winter or during times of food scarcity, this flight can become life-threatening: The deer use up valuable energy reserves that they actually need for survival or to care for their young. Repeated disturbances further weaken the animals and can significantly reduce their chances of survival.

Therefore, dogs are very welcome in nature – but please keep them under control so as not to disturb wildlife. A leash or a good recall not only protects nature but also ensures a peaceful coexistence in the forest.

And by the way: We humans can also trigger similar effects when we travel off-road. Therefore, the following applies: NaturparkPlease stay on the paths.

Cycling – with an eye for the little things

Cycling and Naturpark They fit together perfectly. After all, many beautiful tours lead through the landscape here – including the Hohe Mark cycle route.

When cycling, it's not only worth looking into the distance, but also occasionally at the path ahead. Many small crawling and creeping creatures are also on the move. While they can usually escape a pedestrian, a bicycle often comes too fast for them.

Those who are out mountain biking should ideally stay on the designated paths and not create new trails – this way you protect animals, plants and incidentally become nature conservationists on two wheels.

Fire doesn't belong in nature – and neither does a sleeping bag everywhere.

A small campfire seems cozy – but in the great outdoors it can quickly become dangerous. Even a single spark or a discarded cigarette butt can start a fire.

And not only in forests. Fires can also develop in heath and moorland areas, smoldering undetected beneath the surface for a long time. Therefore, the following applies: NaturparkOpen flames should be strictly avoided.

Overnight stays in the forest are generally prohibited in North Rhine-Westphalia according to the state forest law – please therefore refrain from wild camping and use designated tent or camping sites instead.

Nice to look at – but leave it alone.

Im Naturpark Many special plants grow here, some of which are rare or even protected. Simply taking them to beautify your own garden is not a good idea.

Many of these plants are perfectly adapted to their location – to the soil, water, and light. Elsewhere, they have little chance of survival. So the best thing to do is: enjoy them, photograph them, and leave them be.

Drones and horseback riding

Drones offer exciting perspectives – but they can be quite disruptive for animals. The buzzing in the sky can startle or drive away wild animals.

Flying over nature reserves and Natura 2000 areas is generally prohibited. The following rules apply: Naturpark the respective regulations of the districts for unmanned aircraft systems.

Similar regulations apply to horseback riding. It's best to find out beforehand what is allowed where.