Trip to Grootbroek and Doode Bemde

The pond of Grootbroek, as the largest water surface in the Dijle valley, exerts an irresistible attraction on migratory birds that follow the valley. Originally, the site consisted of four ponds, separated by narrow dikes. Het Agentschap for Nature and Forest (ANB) bought the area and improved the water management, removed the dikes, creating one large shallow pond of 30 hectares. From the large wooden observation tower, you can observe everything perfectly, including the island with the beaver. The little bittern is a rare guest here, but since 2008 also a potential breeding bird. Over the years, vagrants have also been spotted here, including white-tailed eagle, short-toed snake eagle, glossy ibis, black-winged stilt, alpine swift, etc. The area is also interesting for dragonflies and damselflies. After the lunch break, we will explore the nature reserve Doode Bemde in Neerijse under the guidance of guide Ludo Teeuwen. De Doode Bemde is a unique nature reserve of 300 hectares. It is located on both sides of the Dijle, which is still allowed to meander freely here and flood during the winter months. The name of the nature reserve can be easily explained. ‘Doode' refers to the unsuitability of the land for farmers. A “Bemde” indicates a moist grassland. Since 1980, this area has been managed by Vrienden van Heverleebos and Meerdaalwoud. Various birds breed here, including little bittern and water rail. Birds such as bluethroat, spotted crake, and sand martins also find their home here. And we will likely also find traces of beaver gnawing!