As of: March 27, 2024, 10:00 a.m
By: Sebastian Grauvogl
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In his territory: Gerhard Kinshofer bird watching at Seehamer See.
© Archive TP
Gerhard Kinshofer has been the face of the State Association for Bird Protection (LBV) in the Miesbach district for decades.
Now he is celebrating his 80th birthday.
His work at Seehamer See keeps him fit.
District
– No bird at Seehamer See escapes his watchful eyes behind the binoculars.
And no walker or water sports enthusiast who does not respect the protection zone can escape his words of warning.
Gerhard Kinshofer has been the face of the State Association for Bird Protection (LBV) in the Miesbach district for decades.
Today he celebrates his 80th birthday.
In an interview, we asked the Miesbach native why he doesn't get tired despite 34 years of bird watching, why unapologetic contemporaries can't hope for mild old age and how long he's actually had his impressive beard.
Mr. Kinshofer, what has been in your life for a long time: your birds at Seehamer See or your characteristic beard?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
Actually my beard.
I've been wearing it for almost 50 years.
Your trademark?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
That's a good way to recognize me, yes.
But I also find it very practical.
This means I don't get a sore throat even on cold and drafty days at the lake (laughs).
Other people would probably just stay at home.
Gerhard Kinshofer:
It also keeps me fit.
Exercise and fresh air, what could be better?
Since I took over the water bird count at Seehamer See in 1990, I have actually been there every day.
Especially since we managed to designate the protection zone.
We set the first buoys in 1992.
A milestone.
But only if people stick to it.
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Gerhard Kinshofer:
That's also why I spend so much time outside.
And unfortunately I see that respect for nature continues to decline.
There are people who set up a camping table for a picnic in the middle of the reeds.
Or those who let three dogs run through the protected area without a leash.
If you ask them about their wrongdoing, you risk at best an ironic comment.
But it's not uncommon for people to simply insult you.
Unfortunately, humanity is currently so confused that it's hard to think of anything else.
What motivates someone at your age to keep helping these people in their shoes?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
The birds.
When I see how they retreat to the protected zone on days with Ramba Zamba at the lake and actually find peace here, then I know that it is worth all the effort.
A great success was the regulation, which has been legally binding since October last year, and which now punishes intrusion into the protection zone with a fine.
What are the birds like at Seehamer See?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
Of course I am also observing the general decline in species here.
This is due to more and more local disturbances, but also to climate change.
I am all the more pleased that with the protection zone we have managed to create a retreat not only for native birds such as the water rail, the great crested grebe and the reed warbler, but also an opportunity for migratory birds such as the gadwall, teal, garganey and tufted ducks to rest.
Do you actually have a favorite bird?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
No.
I appreciate the entire diversity here at Seehamer See.
Of course, I particularly remember rare animals such as the osprey.
While he visits us regularly, the sea eagle that we once had with us for 15 days was an exception.
How long will we be able to observe you at Seehamer See?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
As long as my health allows it.
But I'm an optimist, humor is the best pill for me.
However, after 28 years as chairman of the LBV district board, I would like to retire to the second row.
But no successor has yet been found.
Most people say it's only for retirement.
I did bird watching alongside my main job for ten years.
Good keyword: What did you actually do when you weren't at Seehamer See?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
I used to work at the Miesbach-based tractor manufacturer Primus, and then later at the Kinshofer company until my early retirement in 2002.
The name also fit well (laughs).
And I am grateful that people here have always understood my voluntary work.
Conversely, I am happy to have a strong team at LBV.
Be it the biotope care or the monthly information events at the Bräuwirt since 1996.
Of course, if I'm unable to attend, I also have someone out at the lake.
Is there still no replacement in sight?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
No.
The job is sometimes unpleasant when you are spoken to in a weak manner.
But my, then I'll just carry on.
What's your time anyway? Are you more of an early bird or do you fly out of the nest late?
Gerhard Kinshofer:
I'd rather not say anything about it now.
Otherwise word will just get around when the protection zone is unobserved.
Let's just put it this way: I am and will remain incalculable.
sg