Fågeltorn Draven

Draven, the border between Gislaved and Värnamo, is one of Småland's most important and species-rich bird locations. It is a breeding ground for the oystercatcher, the small-spotted coot, the coot, the water rail, the black-headed gull, the bittern, the Eurasian wigeon, the brown harrier, the whooper swan, the crane and the graylag goose.

Many different ducks, geese and waders also rest here during migration. Peregrine falcons have been seen at the lake and several other birds of prey feed here. In winter, sea eagles can be seen. There are birdwatching towers north of Väcklinge on the west side and at Fridsnäs at the outlet in the south-east.

The plant cover is also varied and species-rich. For example, bog asphodel, spruce bracken, various species of herring hair and leech buds, as well as water primrose and sea anemone grow in various places on the lakeshore. Meadowsweet has also been found in the reserve.

The extensive coastal meadows in the far southwest, Håkentorp's, Dravös' and Bröttjestad's lands, are partially ditched and consist of well-grazed coastal meadows with porc and heather. Grazing has been going on here continuously for a long time. A variety of plant species can be found on the large areas.

A spring marsh in the southeast contributes to the species richness. Water lily, sedge, Atlantic dandelion, several species of sedge, bladderwort and nasturtium, water bindweed and marsh marigold are just some of the diversity of plant species. Red-legged kittiwake, lapwing and yellowhammer regularly nest on the salt meadows.

There are two birdwatching towers by the lake and a trail with footbridges of about 9 km runs around the lake.