A. Snake Cave

Welcome to the snake cave! Here, you can explore like a young researcher and discover how animals use hiding places and live in nature. The cave is made from a Benjes hedge, a dense pile of branches, twigs, and plant material.

One particularly exciting feature is the large snake you can see here. It emerges from the Benjes hedge. It was originally part of an old tree that had to be cut down because it was no longer healthy. But its branches and trunk have been turned into a new home for many animals. Now the snake winds its way through the hedge like a mysterious garden inhabitant, creating a real adventure to observe.

Here is what you can experience:

1. Take a close look at the Benjes hedge
   The branches, trunks, and twigs form many small caves and hiding places. Snakes, lizards, beetles, hedgehogs, and many other animals live here. You can see how a natural pile like this provides protection, warmth, and shelter for many creatures.
2. Discover the snake
   Can you see how it winds through the branches? It is a true garden inhabitant and shows that even animals you do not always notice need a safe home.
3. Learn about the secrets of animals
   Snakes eat mice and other small animals, helping to maintain balance in the garden.
   Lizards and beetles hide in small gaps and spaces to stay safe.
   Hedgehogs sleep during the day and come out at night to look for food.
   The Benjes hedge is a lively garden habitat full of creatures, each with an important role.
4. Discover the story of the old tree
   A large tree once stood here. It had to be cut down because it was diseased or decaying. But its branches became the Benjes hedge, allowing the tree to continue in a new way as a home for many animals. This shows that even old trees can still play an important role in the garden.
5. Explore with all your senses
   Listen to the rustling leaves, watch the snake or other animals, and carefully feel the branches and twigs. You will notice that animals are often hidden but active, and that nature is full of small secrets.
6. Observe with respect
   Stay quiet, do not touch, and do not disturb the animals. This keeps them safe and allows you to observe them closely.

Goal of the station:
You will learn how animals use hiding places and shelters, why snakes and other creatures are important in the garden, and how an old tree can become a living habitat for many animals. At the same time, you will experience an exciting research adventure in the Benjes hedge, observe animals up close, and understand how everything in nature is connected.