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The barrage of Bertoldsheim is an attractive site for resting and hibernating waterfowl.
The barrage of Bertoldsheim hardly ever freezes and is therefore an suitable site for hibernating waterfowl, mostly for diving ducks. Regularly, Common Goldeneye, Smew, Whooper Swan and less often Velvet Scoter and Red-breasted Merganser are observed. Depending on the water level large sandbanks are exposed and attract during migration season numerous waders (up to 100 Ruff). Pay attention also to less common species! The same counts for migrating terns: While Common Tern also breed on the site, Black Tern and here and then White-winged Tern, Whiskered Tern and Caspian Tern rest in the boundaries of the reserve.
Particularly, along the southern shore of the Danube you find a dense riparian forest, which holds Golden Oriole, Common Cuckoo, several woodpeckers, Common Nightingale and Collared Flycatcher; for the latter a walk eastwards might turn out more promising than directly at the barrage. Finally, Common Shelduck, Ruddy Shelduck, Red-crested Pochard and Gadwall remain on the reserve usually all along the summer, partially as breeders.
Along both river banks run broad paths, from which most parts of the site can easily be observed. A spotting scope is indispensable due to the long distances. During the summer months heat haze is a serious problem.
Two car parks can be approached for a visit. The first is situated between Bertoldsheim and Marxheim. Pay attention to a signpost for the "Segelhafen" and follow it to the car park. For the second drive southwards from Bertoldsheim in the direction of Burgheim. After you've crossed the bridge over the river Danube you should find single parking places on each side of the road.
The best access by public transport is definitely the train station of Burgheim a few kilometers south of the reserve. It should be noted that the whole area is flat and suitable for cycling.