Animals of the Night: Discovery Tour for Families

Animals of the Night: An Exploration Tour for Young and Old in the Görlsdorf Forest

As darkness falls, the day begins for many nocturnal animals. On Saturday, July 25th, the Heinz Sielmann Nature Experience Center in Wanninchen offers the opportunity to learn more about the lifestyles of wolves, bats, and owls. The program is specifically designed for families and imparts solid knowledge about the adaptation strategies of animals at night.

Knowledge Transfer and Creative Preparation
An introductory short lecture will focus on the orientation and protection of nocturnal species. Following this, participants will have the chance to test their knowledge in a communal family quiz. To prepare for the darkness, lanterns will be crafted, which will serve as practical companions for the rest of the evening.

Excursion into the Darkness
The core of the event is a guided night hike through the grounds of the Nature Experience Center and into the adjacent Görlsdorf Forest. Under expert guidance, acoustic signals such as owl calls will be interpreted, and traces of bats and other nocturnal inhabitants will be tracked. With a bit of luck, the stag beetle – the largest beetle in Germany – may also be observed in its natural habitat.

Event Details
Date: Saturday, July 25, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Heinz Sielmann Nature Experience Center, Wanninchen
Target Audience: Families with children aged 7 and older
Cost: Free of charge (plus €5 material fee)
Equipment: Sturdy footwear, a flashlight, mosquito repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing are mandatory.
Registration: Due to limited capacity, prior registration is necessary. This environmental education offer is co-financed by financial resources from the European Union.