The Bornhorster Huntewiesen are a nature reserve in the German city of Oldenburg and the municipality of Elsfleth in the district of Wesermarsch. The wetland area is an internationally important bird resting place.
The 350-hectare nature reserve is located south-east of the Oldenburg district of Bornhorst. 340 hectares of the nature reserve are located on the city area of Oldenburg - east of the A 29 motorway and north of the Hunte and 10 hectares on the territory of the district of Wesermarsch.
The Bornhorster Huntewiesen are an important habitat for many rare bird species. Here, meadow birds such as snipe, lapwing, redshank, common crane, and marsh harrier breed, among others. In winter, numerous goose and duck species, such as greylag goose, bean goose, Canada goose, white-fronted goose, spoonbill, pintail, and mallard, find a resting place here.
The Bornhorster Huntewiesen are a popular destination for nature lovers. There are several hiking trails through the area, from which you can observe the diverse birdlife.
In January 2024, the Bornhorster Huntewiesen were flooded by a flood. The water rose up to one meter high and turned the meadows into a lake.
The flood also had an impact on the birdlife. Many birds had to leave their nests and seek shelter on higher ground.
The flood in the Bornhorster Huntewiesen was an impressive natural spectacle. It showed how powerful nature can be and how important it is to protect wetlands.