löhill

Löhill is a type of earthen mound or hillock that is typically found in the Swiss Alps and other mountainous regions of Europe. It is characterized by its conical or pyramidal shape, which is often the result of centuries of human activity, particularly farming and grazing. The term "Löhill" is derived from the German words "Lö" (meaning "wolf") and "Hill" (meaning "hill"), reflecting the belief that these mounds were created by wolves digging up earth to form their dens.

The formation of Löhills begins with the clearing of vegetation and the digging of small pits or trenches by animals, often wolves, foxes, or even badgers, to create burrows. Over time, these burrows are abandoned and the earth from the pits accumulates, creating small mounds. As more animals use the same area, the mounds grow larger and eventually merge, forming the characteristic conical shape of a Löhill.

Löhills serve various ecological purposes. They provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including rare and endangered flora and fauna. The mounds also help to stabilize soil, prevent erosion, and improve water retention in the surrounding area. Additionally, Löhills can influence the microclimate of the region, creating cooler temperatures and higher humidity in the vicinity.

In some cases, Löhills have been used by humans for agricultural purposes, such as creating small terraces or growing crops on the slopes. However, due to their fragile nature and the potential for soil erosion, many Löhills are now protected by local and national conservation efforts.

Overall, Löhills are a unique and important feature of the Alpine landscape, offering insights into the ecological processes that shape these environments and the human activities that have influenced them over centuries.