The narrow strip of wetlands forest in Schönau is one of the most dynamic areas of the National Park. The Danube can flow into its branches by way of two depressions along the towpath ("Treppelweg"), shifting substantial amounts of gravel along the way. The new banks and islands that are continually created in this way are home to a variety of bird species which nest on gravel surfaces, such as the Little Ringed Plover and the Common Sandpiper.
The native kingfisher also prefers the sandy-loamy river banks of this dynamic habitat for nesting. In fact, in the winter there are numerous bird species searching for food in the ice-free waters.
The best opportunity to glimpse beavers building their lodges into these steep embankments is on late winter afternoons. Following high-water periods, the replenished ponds become the ideal habitat for frogs and toads which utilise such bodies of water in the spring as spawning grounds.
When water levels are low, many traces of fauna may be observed on the exposed, sandy banks.
Please heed our code of conduct and show respect for wildlife and other park visitors!