78 Wildcat Barn in Hütscheroda (Hörselberg-Hainich)
78 Wildcat Barn in Hütscheroda (Hörselberg-Hainich)
The half-timbered building, originally a barn, was extensively renovated in 2011 and is now part of the BUND Wildcat Village Hütscheroda.
The so-called “Wildcat Barn” serves as the main visitor center and offers an entertaining and educational exhibition about the rare wildcat, a resident of the national park.
A large, detailed wall illustration vividly depicts its habitat.
In the Wildcat Adventure Forest, both children and adults can play a game of cat and mouse.
Various themed stations provide information about the biology, threats to wildcats, and the rescue network initiated by the German Federation for the Environment and Nature Conservation (BUND).
At the exit, visitors can watch live footage from the Wildcat Clearing on a screen.
But the best way to experience them is to see the four wildcat males—Toco, Carlo, Franz, and Oskar—live.
Unique viewing spots, such as between wood stacks, inside a cave, or from the observation tower, offer different perspectives of the four spacious, nature-inspired enclosures.
Guided feeding sessions take place two to three times daily, with varying schedules to keep the wildcats “wild and fit.”
The Wildcat Trail through the national park gives visitors an opportunity to explore the wildcat’s natural habitat.
This 7 km circular route takes you through the southern part of the park, showcasing open landscapes and reforested areas.
A highlight of the trail is the Hainichblick observation tower, offering a panoramic view of the region’s natural dynamics.
From here, visitors can spot the only safe wildlife corridor connecting the Hainich and the Thuringian Forest, which allows the wildcats to migrate southward.
In the distance, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wartburg Castle can also be seen.
For a shorter, child-friendly option, the 1.5 km Wildcat Sneak Path is accessible and suitable for strollers.
Featuring a climbing course, this trail invites both young and old to playfully explore nature.
Additional Information:
Current feeding times, events, and educational programs can be found on the official website:
Contact:
Wildtierland Hainich GmbH – Wildkatzendorf Hütscheroda
Schlossstraße 4
99820 Hörselberg-Hainich
OT Hütscheroda