Oderhänge Mallnow

Brandenburg,

Germany

Mallnow Oder Hills (German: Oderhänge Mallnow) is a protected natural area located in the Brandenburg region of Germany. Known for its unique dry grasslands and steep slopes along the Oder River, the area is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it an important conservation site and a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Overview of Oderhänge Mallnow

Location: The Mallnow Oder Hills are situated in eastern Germany, near the town of Lebus, along the Oder River, which forms the border with Poland..
Area: The Mallnow Oder Hills cover approximately 304 hectares, forming a significant part of the Oderbruch landscape, characterized by steep inclines and dry grasslands. (GPS)

Geography and Landscape

Elevation: The terrain consists of prominent slopes and ridges shaped by glacial deposits from the Weichsel Ice Age. These formations provide distinct soil conditions that support unique ecosystems.
Diverse Landscapes: The area features a combination of dry and semi-dry grasslands, forested sections, and open meadows, creating a habitat for a variety of species.

Climate

Weather Conditions: The climate is continental, with warm, dry summers and cold winters. Due to the hillside terrain and unique soil composition, microclimates develop, allowing the survival of specialized plant and animal species.
Diverse Landscapes: The region receives relatively low rainfall, and high sun exposure benefits heat-adapted species, making the Mallnow Oder Hills a distinctive ecological site.

Flora and Fauna

Biodiversity: The Mallnow Oder Hills are home to rare and protected plant species, including feather grass (Stipa) and spring pheasant’s eye (Adonis vernalis).
Wildlife: The region supports a range of insects, including rare butterfly and wild bee species. Reptiles such as the sand lizard (Lacerta agilis) and birds like the red-backed shrike (Lanius collurio) and wryneck (Jynx torquilla) also inhabit the area. The presence of beetles, which play a vital role in the ecosystem, further highlights the biodiversity of the region.