Glotternskogen Nature Reserve lies by Lake Övre Glottern that is partly included in the reserve. The reserve comprises 201 hectares, of which 165 are land. The area is dominated by

old coniferous forest with some deciduous trees, especially Aspen and Birch. There are plenty of snags, tall stumps and moss-covered logs. These are important since they are essential for food and nesting places for birds.

There is a rich bird-life with over 80 species, many of which are threatened by modern forestry. These include Capercailie, Hobby, Osprey, Goshawk, Honey Buzzard, Nightjar and Black Woodpecker. The terrain is undulating with steep slopes and hollows with bogs that smell of Labrador Tea. Pines that are surrounded by lovely carpets of Reindeer Moss are prevalent on the bare smooth rocks. From a couple of elevations (about 125 m) there are fine views across the countryside.

In this area there is a flora that is typical for the Kolmården area, such as May Lily, Chickweed Wintergreen, Dog Violet, Heath Spotted Orchid, Coralroot Orchid and strands of Twinflower. The reserve was established and is managed by the Municipality of Norrköping.

In the dynamics of the forest the forest fire is a natural ecological factor and many species are adapted to recurring fires. Natural fires have occurred in the reserve in 1980 and 1993, and a managed fire was carried out in 1997 in order to encourage the rare and threatened flora and fauna, especially many fire-dependent species of beetles.

Managed fire
PHOTO: Anders Tingvall