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Description
The NSG Rieselfelder Windel is a flat, open landscape where former sewage-irrigation fields have turned into a patchwork of wetland and farmland. Shallow ponds and reed-fringed basins alternate with wet grassland, ditches and open fields, so you can scan both water and open country in one visit. The open terrain offers long sightlines and makes it easy to pick out birds even at distance.
In spring, the ponds and muddy edges can hold waders, such as Vatnalóa. Wetland birds like Keldusvín and Bláþyrill are regularly observed, and the area also attracts raptors, including the occasional presence of Brúnheiðir. Breeding-season passerines include Steindepill, Garðsöngvari and Hagaskvetta, along with non-passerines like Gaukur.
In summer, the site remains rewarding: the ponds host ducks such as Stokkönd, Skúfönd and Gargönd, while reedbeds continue to hold singing Sefsöngvari and Seljusöngvari. Open-country species like Vepja, Landsvala and Bæjasvala are often present, and hunting raptors such as Turnfálki and, with some luck, Gunnfálki can appear over the fields.
During autumn migration, the mix of water and open farmland really shows its strength. Expect increasing numbers of ducks (e.g. Gargönd, Urtönd, Skeiðönd, and occasionally Rauðhöfðaönd) as well as reedbed species such as Keldusvín. Passerine migration can bring gatherings of finches like Þistilfinka. Large movements are possible too, with Grátrana sometimes observed in the area. Raptors are a constant highlight, with regular Músvákur and occasional scarcer birds such as Sparrhaukur.
In winter, the ponds concentrate waterbirds: flocks of Urtönd and Stokkönd are typical, with Gulönd also recorded and Dílaskarfur as a quite stable presence. Reed edges and wet vegetation can hide Dvergsnípa and Skógarsnípa, alongside Hrossagaukur. The surrounding trees and hedges can hold winter finches such as Fjallafinka, Dómpápi and even Kjarnbítur, as well as winter visitors like Skógarþröstur. A particularly nice winter specialty that is sometimes - although rarely - observed, then, is Kampameisa.
What makes this site special is how easy it is to combine wetland birding with classic open-country scanning in a compact area close to Bielefeld. A network of paths and viewpoints lets you explore quietly: spend time scanning the ponds and reed margins for rails and snipe, then walk the field edges for chats, pipits and hunting raptors.
Details
Access
The NSG Rieselfelder Windel is located in the southern part of Bielefeld, in the Windelsbleiche / Senne area, about 10 km from the city centre and surrounded by agricultural land.
The reserve can be reached easily by car via the A33 motorway (exit Bielefeld-Senne or Schloß Holte-Stukenbrock), followed by a short drive on local roads toward Windelsbleiche and Niederheide. Small parking possibilities are available at the Biological Station Gütersloh/Bielefeld, located in the area, and in some other spots. Click on the P in the map for directions.
Public transport is possible from Bielefeld with bus connections toward Windelsbleiche or Senne, followed by a short walk or bicycle ride to the reserve. The nearest bus stops are indicated in the map.
The best way to explore the area is on foot or by bicycle. There are several good viewpoints along the water basins and field edge, as well as some observation towers and hides, also shown on the map.
Terrain and Habitat
Wetland , Reedbeds , Scattered trees and bushes , Grassland , Plain , Pond , AgricultureConditions
Flat , Sandy , Wet , Open landscapeCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migration , Autumn migrationRoute
Paved road , Wide path , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
The reserve also hosts the headquarters of the Biological Station Gütersloh/Bielefeld, located in a former farm building. The station manages and monitors several protected areas in the region, including the Rieselfelder Windel, and occasionally offers environmental education activities. Below is the link to the website of the Biological Station.