Thurbruch and Gothensee Nature Reserve

The Thurbruch and Gothensee Nature Reserve, located on the eastern part of Usedom Island, is a sprawling lowland moor encompassing approximately 16 square kilometers. The name 'Thurbruch' translates to 'Aurochs Marsh,' a nod to the wild oxen that once roamed the area. This unique landscape was formed during the last Ice Age, with a glacial tongue basin gradually transforming into a swampy plain. In the 18th century, King Frederick the Great of Prussia initiated drainage works to reclaim the moor for agriculture. Drainage ditches, some dating back to that era, crisscross the area. The landscape is characterized by flat expanses of meadows, pastures, and fields. The 5-kilometer long and approximately one-meter deep Gothensee is Usedom's largest inland lake. In 1967, the lake and surrounding area were declared a nature reserve due to their rich biodiversity. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Botanists admire rare orchids and various water lily species, while the moorlands support a wide array of moor plants. The Thurbruch serves as a resting place for migratory birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers. Over 1,900 butterfly species have been identified in the moor. The area also provides habitat for various reptiles and amphibians, including the European adder and moor frog.