De Zegge, Nature reserve in Geel, Belgium.
De Zegge is a nature reserve near Geel covering around 120 hectares of wetlands with peatlands, hosting various plant species recorded in conservation lists. The land is actively managed to maintain these sensitive ecosystems for the species that depend on them.
The Royal Zoological Society of Antwerp purchased this area in 1952, and it received official protection status as a nature reserve in 1985. This timeline shows how the site transitioned from private acquisition to formal conservation recognition.
Local farmers work with the reserve to maintain traditional land management that protects the wetland ecosystem. This partnership shows how rural communities can support conservation efforts through everyday farming choices.
Visiting requires advance booking and happens only through guided tours for groups of 15 or more people, lasting around 2.5 hours. Contacting the management ahead of time helps arrange a suitable date for your group's visit.
The reserve holds one of Flanders' remaining populations of grass snakes and serves as a breeding ground for Eurasian bitterns. These uncommon species make the location significant for wildlife watching, though spotting them requires patience and luck.
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