Anyone who takes a look over the dike can already greet them: Millions of migratory birds are expected these days on their way to warmer climes to rest in the Wadden Sea.
There is a wide program of events for those interested in the natural spectacle.
Wilhelmshaven - Millions of migratory birds are expected on the Wadden Sea coast of Lower Saxony in these weeks to strengthen themselves for their onward flight to their winter quarters in southern Europe and Africa.
Thousands of visitors and interested people are attracted by this annual natural spectacle - for them the 13th Migratory Bird Days begin on Saturday, as the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park Administration announced in Wilhelmshaven.
In total, there will be more than 250 information and entertainment events on the subject of migratory birds until October 17th.
This year's partner country is the West African country of Gambia, where many birds spend the winter, including this year's title bird: the sandwich tern.
also read
On the way south: migratory bird days in the Wadden Sea
Woodcock, dunlin or other waders - they all meet in the Wadden Sea to strengthen themselves there for the onward flight to their winter quarters in southern Europe and Africa.
A spectacle that attracts many visitors every year.
On the way south: migratory bird days in the Wadden Sea
Regensburg flea markets start on September 18th
The yard flea markets take place at the weekend.
There are not only unique items up for auction.
The city of Regensburg also offers culinary delights and culture.
Regensburg flea markets start on September 18th
Accuracy: Herne is testing litter bins for cyclists
Take waste disposal in a sporty way: The city of Herne is testing so-called litter bins on a popular bicycle route on the canal.
The sturdy lattice bins have a large opening that is tilted towards the people passing by.
"The idea behind it: People shouldn't have to stop to dispose of their garbage," said a city spokesman when asked by the German press agency.
Accuracy: Herne is testing litter bins for cyclists
In autumn, the Wadden Sea is the hub of the East Atlantic bird migration: Many of the migratory birds come from breeding areas in northern Europe, Asia or even America. On their often thousands of kilometers long journey to the southern winter quarters, they take a rest - in the Wadden Sea. Many Nordic geese also stay and spend the cold months on the North Sea coast. All birds use the abundance of food in the mudflats to replenish their energy reserves.
Everywhere along the coast between Ems and Elbe there are observation stations during the migratory bird days to watch for example common woodcock, wheatear, starlings and other bird species.
Taking into account the Corona rules, excursions on foot, by bike, bus and boat, exhibitions, culinary offers and hands-on activities for children are also part of the program of the 13th Migratory Bird Days.
dpa