Exquisite nature: The butterfly path with Hitgenheierweg near Willebadessen

In the realm of butterflies
Expansive sheep pastures cover the Muschelkalk slopes north of Willebadessen. The sun-drenched areas exert a peculiar attraction. Upon closer inspection, a diversity of species is revealed that is unparalleled. Countless colorful flowers reach towards the sun and the scent of aromatic herbs gives the limestone grasslands a Mediterranean flair - a paradise for sun worshipers like our native butterflies!
Over 50 species of butterflies have been identified here so far. In the cultural landscape of Kreis Höxter, there is hardly a more suitable area to get to know the colorful world of butterflies.

The largest native gentian, the cross gentian, can also be found in the limestone grasslands. The rare gentian in Central Europe serves as a food plant for the caterpillars of an even rarer blue butterfly, the cross gentian blue. In Central Europe, both species, plant and butterfly, are nowhere to be found as frequently as in Kreis Höxter!
Follow the fluttering flight of the butterflies and learn new and interesting things about the life of these fascinating animals on your hike!

The limestone grasslands near Willebadessen are a sub-area of the "Exquisite Nature". In total, there are 18 such experience areas in the cultural landscape of Kreis Höxter. They are all components of the protected area system "Natura 2000" and thus belong to our European natural heritage!