Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm is a beautiful animal enclosure that spans 12.7 hectares in the heart of Kiel, Germany. This expansive wildlife park is one of five enclosures managed by the city's Parks Department, offering visitors a unique opportunity to observe native and naturalized wild species in a semi-natural setting. Located between Skandinaviendamm, Melsdorfer Straße, and Hofholzallee, this local recreation area serves as a vital green space for the city and a haven for biodiversity.
Established over 40 years ago, this wildlife park has become integral to Kiel's outdoor attractions, complementing the city's forests and parks. With its diverse landscape featuring meadows, wetlands, and wooded areas, the enclosure provides a rich habitat for various animal species and offers visitors a chance to connect with nature. As one of the most popular destinations in Kiel, attracting approximately 150,000 visitors annually, Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm stands out as a must-visit location for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat within the urban environment.
Highlights
- Free admission and year-round accessibility
- Home to iconic species like wisent, bison, and Heck cattle
- Diverse landscape with meadows, ponds, and woodlands
Contents
Photo: kiel.de
Here is Why Your Kids Will Find it Interesting
Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm is worth visiting with kids aged 3-12 as it offers an exciting wildlife experience without the constraints of a traditional zoo. Children can observe animals roaming freely in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitats. The park's layout encourages exploration, with a circular walking path that allows young visitors to discover different animal species at their own pace. Information boards throughout the enclosure provide educational content, making it an engaging outdoor classroom where kids can learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Family-friendly features
- Wheelchair-accessible paths for inclusive family outings
- Educational signage designed for children's understanding
- Picnic areas for family meals amidst nature
The Animal Residents
Wisent (European Bison)
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The majestic wisent, also known as the European bison, is one of the park's star attractions. These impressive creatures, once on the brink of extinction, now roam the enclosure's meadows, offering visitors a glimpse into Europe's ancient forests.
American Bison
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Alongside their European cousins, American bison can also be observed in the park. These iconic animals symbolize the North American prairies and provide an interesting comparison to the wisent.
Heck Cattle
Photo: wikipedia.org
Often mistaken for aurochs, Heck cattle are a breed developed to resemble the extinct wild cattle of Europe. These robust animals graze in the enclosure, offering visitors a glimpse of what ancient European landscapes might have looked like.
Sika Deer
Photo: pixabay.com
The graceful sika deer, originally from East Asia, has found a home in Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm. With their distinctive spotted coats, these medium-sized deer add a touch of elegance to the park's fauna.
White Moorland Sheep
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The white moorland sheep is a hardy breed that represents agricultural heritage. These woolly residents contribute to the park's diverse animal population and help maintain grassland habitats.
Landscape and Natural Features
Photo: kiel.de
This place boasts a rich tapestry of natural landscapes that provide diverse habitats for animal residents and native flora. The enclosure's varied terrain includes:
- Expansive meadows and grasslands that serve as grazing areas for larger animals
- A network of hedgerows typical of the region
- Small ponds and wetlands that support aquatic ecosystems
- Diverse biotopes, including reed beds, marshes, and wet woodland areas
This mosaic of habitats supports the enclosure's animal residents and provides a home for numerous plant species.
Visitor Experience
Photo: welovekiel.com
Based on the available information, I can expand on the Visitor Experience section for Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm as follows:
Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm offers visitors a well-designed and immersive experience, allowing them to observe animals in a natural setting. The park's layout and features are thoughtfully arranged to enhance the visitor experience. A well-maintained circular trail guides visitors through the various habitats and animal areas. This path ensures visitors can easily navigate the 12.7-hectare enclosure without missing any key attractions.
The park has carefully positioned viewing areas that provide excellent vantage points for animal observation. These spots allow visitors to safely watch the animals in their habitats without disturbing them.
Informative boards are placed strategically throughout the enclosure. These boards offer educational content about the animals, habitats, and conservation efforts. This feature makes the park an excellent outdoor classroom for visitors of all ages.
Benches are conveniently located along the walking path, allowing visitors to take breaks, relax, and enjoy the scenery. These rest areas enhance the overall experience, especially for families with children or elderly visitors. The park is designed to connect seamlessly with nearby green spaces, including adjacent forests. This integration provides a more expansive feel to the enclosure and offers visitors a broader natural experience.
Accessibility
The park is open 24/7 and offers free admission, making it an accessible option for locals and tourists. The paths are designed to be wheelchair-friendly, ensuring that the park is inclusive for all visitors.
Wildlife Viewing
Visitors can observe a variety of animals in semi-natural habitats, including wisent (European bison), American bison, Heck cattle, sika deer, and white moorland sheep. The animals roam freely in spacious enclosures, providing a more authentic wildlife viewing experience.
Depending on the time of year, visitors may encounter different wildlife experiences, such as observing migratory birds or seeing young animals in the spring.
Best Time to Visit
Photo: welovekiel.com
The best time to visit Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm with children is during spring and early summer when the weather is mild and the animals are most active. Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. The enclosure is charming in the early morning when animals are often more visible.
Recommended Duration: A typical visit lasts about 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to explore the enclosure and observe animals.
Our Resume
Tiergehege Hasseldieksdamm offers a unique blend of wildlife observation, natural beauty, and educational opportunities. Its free admission, year-round accessibility, and diverse animal population make it an ideal destination for families seeking an engaging outdoor experience. The enclosure's commitment to conservation aligns with modern values, making it not just a recreational space but also an invaluable resource for environmental awareness in Kiel.
