The Dörscheider Heide nature reserve is one of the most valuable biotopes on the Middle Rhine, not far from the famous Loreley. Over the centuries, man has shaped this landscape through viticulture, sheep grazing, meadow mowing, arable farming, and fruit cultivation. In the dry, warm climate and on lean rocky soils, a great variety of habitats with rare, heat-loving animal and plant species developed. Over 650 different species of butterflies have been found here, as well as many rare birds, reptiles, grasshoppers, and other insects. As a result of the abandonment of cultivation, impenetrable bushes spread from 1950 onwards and threatened the light- and warmth-requiring fauna and flora. Until 2013, the chequered blue butterfly still flew here. The species has currently disappeared, but there are plans to reintroduce the butterfly. Since 1990, extensive maintenance measures have been carried out to preserve and reclaim the landscape, among other things by a traditionally herded flock of wandering sheep, which is also supported by goats in the fight against scrub encroachment.