Fredriksdalsviken, Naturreservat

By clearing bushes and resuming cattle grazing, parts of the coastal meadows in Fredriksdalsviken nature reserve have been restored. Lapwing, redshank, curlew and yellowhammer nest here. The area is part of the wetland area along the lower reaches of the River Helgeån, and the shore violet, which is unusual in Skåne, also grows here.

Rich bird life

Through bush clearing and resumed livestock grazing, parts of the meadows have been restored and the value as a nesting and resting place has increased. Lapwing, redshank, curlew and yellowhammer nest in the meadows. During the spring and winter, many ducks and geese often rest. Many whooper swans are seen periodically. Greylag geese and brown dunlin nest in the reed and shrub areas in the north-western part of the bay. Grasshopper warblers, rosefinches and marsh tits are regular visitors. During the winter months, white-tailed eagles patrol the area daily.

The water level varies greatly

Characteristic of the wetland area is the large water level variations throughout the year. During heavy rains in the fall and snowmelt in the spring, the water level rises and the flat meadows are flooded. The water level varies regularly between sea level in summer and up to 1.5 meters above sea level in winter.

Vegetation

The vegetation in the open parts of the bay is typical of a nutrient-rich plain lake. White and yellow water lilies grow in the water. The wide shore zone is dominated by reed and sedge. The grazed parts are dominated by various species of grass and sedges. This is also the home of the sea violet, which is unusual in Skåne and is one of the main species in the landscape. Where grazing animals do not hold back the vegetation, the shores are dominated by tall herb vegetation and willow bushes.