Germany is abundant in dense forestation throughout the country, providing natural habitation for a wide arrary of animal life. There are more forests in Germany than any other country west or south of Europe. Germany also possess a variety of mountain ranges, from the Alps to the Eifel and Hunsr'ck mountain ranges found in the Rhineland. The different mountain ranges add to the diversity of wildlife found in the country. Germany is home to many national parks, which help to preserve the wildlife and has assisted in reviving many animal populations that once faced extinction. Over 400 zoos and wildlife parks, the largest amount of any country, operate in Germany.
The most common wild animal in Germany is the
red squirrel, found throughout all regions in the country. Also common throughout Germany are weasels, beavers, and badgers.
The majority of animals found in Germany are also found throughout all of Europe; however, there are a few freshwater species unique to Germany. Found only in Germany are four species of whitefish:
Coregonus bavaricus,
Coregonus hoferi,
Coregonus lucinensis, and
Coregonus fontanae.
Lakes and rivers in Germany are home to
salmon and carp, which are the most common fish found in Germany. Other fish species found in Germany are perch, eel, and lamprey. Common water fowl include wild grey geese, mallard ducks, and grebes.
Gaming animals, such as roe deer and pheasant, are found in several parts of Germany. The Alpine region of Germany is home to game animals such as
chamois and ibex. Unfortunately, frequent hunting has caused many of these animals to become endangered. Other game animals in Germany include
wild boars and hare, which are present almost anywhere in the country.
Wolves, foxes, and
brown bears, once on the verge of extinction, are increasing in population within Germany.
Wild cats such as the Lynx, which are also endangered, are found in the Eifel, Hunsr'ck, and Harz mountain regions. Elk and grey wolves are typically found in eastern Germany. Gaming laws set after World War II has allowed for these animal populations to flourish without the threat of being hunted or trapped by humans.