The jogger disturbs a deer browsing in the clearing, the walker surprises a fox at the pond and the people having a picnic sit right under the nest of a blackcap who no longer dares to feed her young. A family gathering twigs for the fire makes no effort to avoid breaking of live branches and a group of careless visitors leave their rubbish behind after their afternoon snack.

Feeding at dawn and dusk - conserving energy in winter

Disturbances do not have the same effect at all times of the day and in all seasons. Some animals can adapt well to forest visitors, whereas others are very sensitive to disturbance, just as some plant species are very robust while others are easily damaged. Many animals search for food at dawn and dusk and are, therefore, very vulnerable to disturbance at these times. In winter when food is scarce animals must conserve energy. Thus, disturbances in winter are worse than in summer. The opposite applies to plants. They are most vulnerable during their growing season, i.e. spring and summer.

Tips for behaviour in the forest

• Cyclists and horseback riders must use authorised paths.
• Dogs must be kept under control - do not allow them to stray as all dogs possess the hunting instinct. Game should not be disturbed, especially during the breeding season.
• Do not damage trees, break branches, or walk on young growth.
• Do not light fires.
• Observe the rules when picking mushroons, berries and flowers (do not pick protected species).
• In winter, when moving on skis, snowboards and in snow shoes stay on the authorised routes. Animals must protect their reserves, young animals can easily be injured.
• Show respect for other forest visitors, make your presence known in good time when overtaking.
• Always adhere to road blocks during tree felling. Timber harvesting is dangerous!
• Organizers of major events in the forest must make contact with the relevant cantonal forestry service in advance.
• Particularly careful behaviour is required in protected areas and game reserves, i.e. only use the marked paths and obey all signs and instructions.

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