Amphibian protection in Heiligensee: Successful return migration protects species!

Amphibian protection in Heiligensee: Successful return migration protects species!

On October 31, 2025, amphibian protection will continue on Sandhauser Straße in the Heiligensee district of Reinickendorf. This year, the Reinickendorf Environment and Nature Conservation Office is erecting a 400 meter long amphibian protection fence for the seventh year in a row. This project aims to ensure the migration of toads, frogs and newts, which migrate every spring from the Tegeler Forest and the Baumberge nature reserve to the Havel to lay their eggs there. The return migration then takes place in summer.

The protective fence is a necessary measure to protect the amphibians from the dangers of road traffic. Volunteers carry out daily checks to catch the animals and bring them safely across the road. This initiative contributes to the preservation of amphibian species, which are increasingly threatened by structural compaction, drought and predators, as Berlin.de reports.

Successful catches and support from volunteers

The installation of the amphibian protection fence has proven to be extremely successful. Sandhauser Strasse represents a major barrier for migratory amphibians. In 2022, the fourth year in a row, significant catch numbers were recorded at the protective structure. A total of around 2,560 amphibians were caught, including common toads, grass frogs and pond newts. The helpers caught 162 amphibians at the outward migration fence from February to May and around 2,400 at the return migration fence from May to August. These catch numbers represent the highest rates since the fence was first erected and are almost nine times higher compared to 2021, as reported by Reinickendorf Nachrichten.

The positive development of catch numbers in recent years despite difficult climatic conditions is remarkable. District councilor Korinna Stephan emphasizes how important return migration support is for the population development of amphibians. Interested volunteers who would like to get involved in the 2023 hiking season can contact naturschutz@reinickendorf.berlin.de.

Social responsibility and future prospects

The amphibian protection in Heiligensee shows how important environmental and nature conservation measures are, which not only rely on proper legal regulations, but also require the commitment of civil society. The project in Heiligensee is an example of community cohesion and the commitment to preserving endangered species. The combination of education, practical help and a clear protection concept attempts to meet the needs of the amphibians.

For such initiatives to be successful, it is essential that volunteers and the local population continue to be actively involved in the future. A common understanding of the habitat and needs of wildlife not only strengthens nature conservation, but also awareness of environmental policy issues in society as a whole.