The park utilizes the naturally occurring river Osterau to create realistic aquatic habitats for otters and water birds.
The park maintains a specialized breeding and conservation program for the endangered European otter.
Some deer species roam freely within designated open-range areas of the park.
The facility features a dedicated 'wolf training' area used for educational demonstrations regarding predator behavior.
The site hosts a specific 'Moor path' that allows visitors to traverse sensitive wetland ecosystems on raised boardwalks.
The park includes an 'Experience Forest' designed specifically for hands-on ecological education for school groups.
All predatory species in the park are native to Northern Germany, eschewing exotic animals to emphasize regional biodiversity.
Wildpark Eekholt is a 67-hectare landscape park located in the Aukrug Nature Park, specializing in the display of native Northern European fauna. The park features over 700 animals across 100 species, with a focus on predatory animals like wolves, otters, and birds of prey. It functions as an educational center with integrated forest trails and nature-based experiential learning stations. The grounds are characterized by diverse habitats, including wetlands, forest, and meadows, fed by the river Osterau. Visitors can observe daily feedings and flight demonstrations that highlight natural hunting and scavenger behaviors. A significant portion of the park is dedicated to the 'Otter Center' and enclosures for red deer, fallow deer, and wild boars. The park emphasizes environmental conservation through its design, integrating human pathways directly into the animal habitats. It serves as a regional hub for local species preservation and wildlife rehabilitation.
The raised wooden bridge overlooking the otter enclosures during feeding time.
Bring waterproof footwear if visiting after rainfall, as the natural forest paths can become muddy.
Plan your walk around the daily bird-of-prey flight demonstrations for the best visual experience.
Use the provided wildlife viewing blinds to see shy or nocturnal animals without disturbing them.
Attempting to touch or cross fence lines into deer grazing areas.
Open daily year-round, including public holidays.
Dogs are permitted only on a short leash; do not feed the animals any external food.
