The Rossitten Bird Observatory, an ornithological and biological observation station, was founded on January 1, 1901, by the German Ornithological Society based on a plan devised by Mr. Government Councillor G. Rörig and the author of this text. The establishment of the bird observatory represented a completely new venture for Germany; however, this new initiative did not emerge overnight and unexpectedly, but has a long history. If one traces back through ornithological literature and recalls the discussions at earlier ornithological meetings and congresses, one often finds the expressed desire to establish observation stations at suitable locations, primarily focusing on the study of bird migration, while also considering various other ornithological and biological aspects.