Lake Tåkern is a shallow, nutrient-rich freshwater lake supporting reedbeds and submerged vegetation. It is one of the most important nesting and feeding grounds in Northern Europe; out of 270 species observed, over 100 nest at the Site. It regularly supports over 100,000 waterbirds during the spring and autumn migration, with species including the globally vulnerable lesser white-fronted goose Anser erythropus and common pochard Aythya ferina, which are present in internationally significant numbers, well over 1% of their corresponding biogeographic populations. The lime-rich molinia meadows host a diversified flora with nationally protected species of orchids such as the fly orchid Ophrys insectifera, early marsh orchid Dactylorhiza incarnata and musk orchid Herminium monorchis. The wet meadows at Lake Tåkern have been created by years of grazing and haymaking, which continue to preserve the biodiversity and prevent overgrowth, maintaining the ecological character of the Site. Lake Tåkern is popular among visitors: facilities include a visitor and education centre offering guided tours, footpaths and bird towers, including one adapted to wheelchair users. The Site is also of cultural and historical value: about 30 stone age settlements have been found around the lake, evidence showing that the area was used for hunting and fishing. The earliest trace of human activity is represented by a bone harpoon, which could be as many as 9,000 years old.