MORNING WALK SINT-AGATHA-RODE GROOTBROEK

SATURDAY NOVEMBER 28, 2026 OCHTENDWANDELING SINT-AGATHA-RODE GROOTBROEK  Even more than the ponds of Neerijse and Oud-Heverlee, the ‘Grootbroek’ is the top area, the ‘heart’ of the Dijleland! Many visits to the region start in Sint-Agatha-Rode or… they end there! It is perhaps impossible to determine which is the most characteristic bird species for this area! Of course, you can observe almost all water birds resting or migrating. The populations also change along with the changing environment and – certainly not without importance – the complete disappearance of hunting. For example, a few years ago, birds like the Bittern and the Grote Zilverreiger were rather rare here too. Today, with a bit of luck, one can observe these species on every visit. During the winter, in recent years (after more than 20 years of absence), Bewick's swans are seen again. Ook Brilduikers, Smews, and Goosanders are often winter guests for shorter or longer periods. Ook de Pontische gull is a regular winter guest and even occasionally a Yellow-legged Gull. Songbirds that regularly appear in the Grootbroek are Siskin, Crossbill, and Bullfinch. Over the years, the most diverse vagrants have been seen on this pond. As the most imaginative species, we mention the White-tailed Eagle (already resting several times in the winter). Appointment: Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 9 am. End around 12 noon. Practical: A large parking lot is available along the east side of the Leuvensebaan (Huldenberg). Pay close attention because the driveway to the parking lot is not indicated and the small bridge over the ditch is also not noticeable. Guide: Jos Rutten E-mail josrutten@telenet.be GSM 0476 86 02 46