Jasmund National Park

Birds

Jasmund National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with its diverse coastal and forest habitats attracting a variety of bird species throughout the year. From soaring raptors to elusive songbirds, the park provides critical nesting and migration sites for many species.

White-tailed Eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla)
One of Europe’s largest birds of prey, the white-tailed eagle is a majestic sight over Jasmund’s cliffs and coastal areas. With a wingspan reaching up to 2.5 meters, it primarily preys on fish and waterfowl.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
This powerful nocturnal predator is one of the largest owl species in the world. Recognizable by its large ear tufts and deep orange eyes, the eagle-owl hunts small mammals and birds in the park’s forests.

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
With its brilliant blue and orange plumage, the common kingfisher is often seen darting over Jasmund’s streams and ponds. It hovers above the water before diving in to catch small fish.

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major)
A frequent resident of the park’s beech forests, this woodpecker is known for its rhythmic drumming sounds as it searches for insects in tree bark. Its black and white plumage, with a splash of red, makes it easy to identify.

European Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus)
This migratory bird of prey specializes in feeding on wasps and bees, using its strong claws to dig up nests. It can be seen soaring over the forested areas in search of food.

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica)
A summer visitor to Jasmund, the barn swallow is known for its graceful flight and forked tail. It feeds on flying insects and often nests in barns, cliffs, or under bridges.

Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea)
A small but active bird, the Eurasian nuthatch can climb both up and down tree trunks in search of insects and seeds. It has a striking blue-gray back and an orange underside.

Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
Often seen gliding on the park’s lakes and coastal waters, the mute swan is a symbol of elegance. Despite its name, it can produce a variety of sounds and is known for its strong territorial behavior.

Common Raven (Corvus corax)
This highly intelligent bird is a year-round resident of the park. Recognizable by its glossy black feathers and deep croaking call, the raven is an opportunistic feeder that thrives in Jasmund’s forests and cliffs.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A secretive yet powerful raptor, the northern goshawk hunts in the park’s dense woodlands. It preys on birds and small mammals, using its sharp talons and swift flight to capture prey with precision.

Jasmund National Park, located on the Baltic Sea coast of Germany, is famous for its striking chalk cliffs, dense beech forests, and diverse wildlife. Despite being the smallest national park in Germany, Jasmund is home to a variety of fascinating animal species that thrive in its unique coastal and forested habitats.

Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes)
The red fox is a highly adaptable predator that roams Jasmund’s forests and open meadows. It is known for its striking reddish fur, bushy tail, and keen hunting abilities, preying on small mammals, birds, and insects.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
One of the most common large mammals in the park, the roe deer is a graceful and agile species often seen foraging in forest clearings. It has a reddish-brown coat in summer that turns grayish in winter, helping it blend into the environment.

European Badger (Meles meles)
This nocturnal mammal is a skilled digger, creating extensive burrow systems known as setts. Badgers are omnivores, feeding on earthworms, insects, small mammals, and fruits found within Jasmund’s woodlands.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Wild boars are a significant part of the park’s ecosystem, using their strong snouts to dig up roots and insects. These social animals can be seen in groups called sounders, and they play a key role in maintaining forest biodiversity.

European Otter (Lutra lutra)
A semi-aquatic mammal, the European otter thrives in Jasmund’s freshwater streams and coastal waters. With its sleek body and webbed feet, it is an excellent swimmer, preying on fish and amphibians.

Western Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)
These small nocturnal mammals are covered in protective spines and are commonly found foraging in leaf litter for insects and worms. Hedgehogs play an important role in controlling insect populations.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
Though rare, the Eurasian lynx is one of the park’s top predators. This elusive feline has tufted ears, powerful limbs, and sharp eyesight, allowing it to hunt deer and other small mammals effectively.

European Pine Marten (Martes martes)
A tree-dwelling carnivore, the European pine marten has a slender body and a distinctive cream-colored throat patch. It is an agile climber, feeding on small mammals, birds, and berries in the park’s dense forests.

Harbor Seal (Phoca vitulina)
Along the Baltic coast, harbor seals can occasionally be seen basking on rocks or swimming in the sea. These marine mammals rely on fish for food and use their streamlined bodies for efficient underwater movement.

Common European Adder (Vipera berus)
The only venomous snake found in the park, the common adder is usually seen basking in sunny clearings. It has a distinctive zigzag pattern along its back and is generally not aggressive unless provoked.