Lake Neusiedl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Neusiedler SeeFertő tó |
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Satellite image of Lake Neusiedl
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| Location | Austria, Hungary |
| Coordinates | 47°50′N 16°45′E / 47.833°N 16.750°E |
| Type | Endorheic lake |
| Primary inflows | precipitation, Wulka |
| Primary outflows | evaporation (90%) Einserkanal (artificial) |
| Catchment area | 1,120 km2 (430 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | Austria, Hungary |
| Max. length | 36 km (22 mi) |
| Max. width | 12 km (7.5 mi) |
| Surface area | 315 km2 (122 sq mi) |
| Average depth | 1 m (3 ft 3 in) |
| Max. depth | 1.8 m (5 ft 11 in) |
| Water volume | 0.325 km3 (0.078 cu mi) |
| Surface elevation | 115.45 m (378.8 ft) |
| Settlements | Neusiedl am See, Rust |
| Official name: Fertő/Neusiedlersee Cultural Landscape | |
| Type: | Cultural |
| Criteria: | v |
| Designated: | 2001 (25th session) |
| Reference #: | 772 |
| State Party: | Austria and Hungary |
| Region: | Europe and North America |
Lake Neusiedl is a special lake in Central Europe. It is the second largest steppe lake in this region. A steppe lake is a lake found in dry, grassy areas. This lake sits right on the border between Austria and Hungary.
The lake covers a large area of about 315 square kilometers. Most of it, about 240 square kilometers, is in Austria. The rest, about 75 square kilometers, is in Hungary. From north to south, the lake is about 36 kilometers long. It is also quite wide, ranging from 6 to 12 kilometers from east to west. Even though it's big, Lake Neusiedl is very shallow. Its deepest point is only about 1.8 meters.
A Lake with No Outlet
Lake Neusiedl is an endorheic lake. This means it does not have a natural river or stream flowing out to the sea. Water mainly enters the lake from rain and a small river called the Wulka. Most of the water leaves the lake through evaporation, which is when water turns into vapor and goes into the air. About 90% of the water leaves this way. There is also an artificial channel called the Einserkanal that helps control the water level.
Home for Wildlife
Most of Lake Neusiedl is surrounded by tall reeds. These reeds are like a natural fence around the lake. They provide a safe home for many animals. The lake is also a very important stop for migratory birds. These birds fly long distances and use the lake as a resting and feeding place during their journey.
World Heritage Site
In 2001, the areas around Lake Neusiedl were recognized as very special. The national parks in Austria and the Fertő-Hanság National Park in Hungary were together named a World Heritage Site. This means they are important for everyone in the world to protect. This recognition helps make sure the lake and its unique environment are kept safe for future generations.
Images for kids
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Lake Neusiedl in winter
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Lake Neusiedl in 1783, connected to the Hanság swamp
