Beastly heritage in the Sonian Forest

Why are old cart tracks important for the survival of the fire salamander in the Sonian Forest? What does a 17th-century horse breeding farm have to do with the presence of bluebells in the forest? Why do nearly twenty different species of bats choose the Sonian Forest as their home? What does the historically developed network of avenues in the forest have to do with the current pressure on the roe deer population? And how did the decision of Emperor Joseph II to have all wild boars in Brabant captured and housed in monasteries contribute to the 'beech rejuvenation crisis' in the Sonian Forest? To provide an answer to these and many other questions regarding the animals and plants in the current Sonian Forest, we must look to the past. The forest has always been a place where people, animals, and plants lived together. And that living together has left traces that still determine today which animals and plants are found in the forest. During this walk, archaeologist Pieter Rodts (Vrije Universiteit Brussel/Leefmilieu Brussel) takes us on a fascinating journey along the heritage of the Sonian Forest. Not a classic presentation about 'old stones', but a journey through the beastly past of the forest, with a clear view towards a sustainable future for humans, animals, and plants. At the end of the walk, it is also possible to participate in a guided visit of the Groenendaal ecoduct; a unique experience that is offered only once a year!