Mammals:
* European Bison: Once nearly extinct, the European bison has been successfully reintroduced to Germany in recent decades, primarily in the Eifel National Park.
* Grey Wolf: Wolves are making a comeback in Germany after being eradicated in the 20th century. They are primarily found in eastern Germany, particularly in the Lausitz region.
* Lynx: Though rarely seen, lynx populations have been slowly recovering in the Bavarian Alps and other forested areas.
* Beaver: Once hunted to near extinction, beavers have successfully recolonized parts of Germany, particularly along the Rhine River and its tributaries.
* Wildcat: This elusive feline is closely related to the domestic cat but prefers forested habitats. It's found primarily in the Bavarian Forest and the Swabian Jura.
Birds:
* White-tailed Eagle: Once a symbol of German power, the white-tailed eagle was nearly wiped out due to pollution and hunting. It is now making a comeback, particularly in the Baltic Sea region.
* Black Stork: This shy and elusive bird is primarily found in undisturbed forests and wetlands.
* Golden Eagle: Although rare, golden eagles can be found in the Bavarian Alps and the Harz Mountains.
* Sea Eagle: This large raptor is a sight to behold, often found along Germany's coastal areas.
* Capercaillie: This large grouse is primarily found in the Bavarian Alps and the Harz Mountains.
Reptiles & Amphibians:
* European Pond Turtle: This threatened turtle is found in isolated ponds and lakes throughout Germany.
* Fire Salamander: This brightly colored amphibian is a common sight in humid forests.
* Smooth Snake: This harmless snake is often found in grasslands and meadows.
Fish:
* Huchen: This large trout is considered the king of the Danube River and is a highly sought-after game fish.
* European Eel: These fascinating fish spend most of their lives in freshwater but migrate to the Sargasso Sea to spawn. They are now considered critically endangered.
Insects:
* Scarce Swallowtail Butterfly: This beautiful butterfly is found in limited areas with specific habitat requirements.
* Stag Beetle: This large beetle is a protected species in Germany.
Other:
* Giant Freshwater Mussel: This threatened species is found in rivers and streams throughout Germany.
It's important to note that these are just a few examples of the rare animals found in Germany. Many other less-known species also call this country home, and the diversity of life here is truly remarkable.
Conservation efforts:
Germany has implemented numerous conservation efforts to protect its rare animals, including establishing national parks, protected areas, and reintroduction programs. These efforts have been successful in helping many species recover from the brink of extinction.