Mispeldonk Nature Reserve

The Mispeldonk nature reserve originated, as the name suggests, on a higher area (donk) within a former meander of the Dijle. The residents of the historic Mispeldonk farm, which was already mentioned as a fief in the 14th century, were confronted with the former course of the river during wet winters. The original heathland on the donk and the sandy valley edges had been lost. Thanks to targeted nature management, heather is now growing again and insects that are tied to sandy soil have also found their way: bee and wasp species, sand tiger beetles. The hedge edges with, among other things, blackthorn are also striking. The Boeimeerbeek, the common thread through the area, is the habitat for the kingfisher. The grasslands are a paradise for butterflies and grasshoppers... Source: natuurpunt.be/agenda/natuurwandeling-mispeldonk-bonheiden-28582

Mispeldonk is a particularly varied nature reserve. This ranges from poor grasslands, hay meadows with wooded edges, moist deciduous forests to restored heathland areas. The Boeimeerbeek meanders through this landscape. A bird species that is particularly happy with this is the kingfisher.

Mispeldonk Nature Reserve is a beautiful and valuable nature reserve in Bonheiden, located in the province of Antwerp. The area is known for its unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity and the natural beauty of the landscape. Here are some key points about Mispeldonk:Location and SizeMispeldonk is located between Bonheiden and the nearby municipality of Rijmenam, along the banks of the Dijle. The area is part of the larger Dijle landscape, which is known for its wet meadows, meandering waterways and rich flora and fauna. Mispeldonk covers approximately 50 hectares and consists of a mix of marshlands, meadows, forests and ponds.Ecological ImportanceMispeldonk is a protected nature reserve because of its special ecological value. The area has a typical structure of a flood plain of the Dijle, which makes it an important habitat for many plant and animal species:
• Flora: Various rare and protected plant species grow in the area, such as marsh marigolds, cuckoo flowers and water violets. The wet grasslands and marshes provide unique vegetation that is less common elsewhere in the region.
• Fauna: Mispeldonk is an important habitat for birds such as the bluethroat, water rail and reed warbler. Amphibians such as the crested newt and the green frog can also be found there. Furthermore, the area is rich in insects, including butterflies and dragonflies, that thrive in the moist environment.Water managementThe nature reserve plays an important role in local water management. It is located in a flood-prone area along the Dijle and functions as a natural buffer against flooding. In the event of high water levels, the area can collect water and thus help prevent flooding in nearby villages. The nature reserve contributes to the preservation of water quality by filtering and purifying the water through natural processes.Recreation and ExperienceMispeldonk is a popular place for nature lovers and hikers. The area is accessible via various hiking trails that lead through the meadows and forests. There are signposted routes that give walkers the chance to explore the diversity of the landscape and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature.Birdwatchers enjoy visiting the area because of the variety of bird species that can be seen, especially during the breeding season and the migratory bird periods.Management and ProtectionThe nature reserve is managed by Natuurpunt, a Belgian organisation that is committed to nature conservation. Natuurpunt carries out management work to protect biodiversity and maintain the landscape. This includes mowing grasslands, removing invasive plant species and maintaining the walking paths.There is collaboration with local farmers for nature-friendly agriculture, whereby meadows are extensively grazed or mowed, so that they remain suitable for meadow birds and rare plants.