Red-backed shrike as a new breeding bird in the Grenspark

Since the start of the Grenspark, cross-border monitoring has been one of the core tasks. In 2003, an area-wide monitoring plan was ready and could be started. The modified monitoring plan of the Grenspark is quite ambitious and covers many animal groups and plants. Thus, not only birds but also amphibians, reptiles, plants, dragonflies and butterflies are monitored and other species such as the pine marten, moth, moths, mushrooms, bumblebees, water creatures, ground beetles and spiders are the subject of additional inventories. This year, about eight volunteers monitored birds in the Kalmthoutse Heide fen complex.

Remarkably, after a very long absence, the Red-backed Shrike reappeared for the first time as a breeding bird in 2020 with at least one successful breeding case. Although the species was not noted during monitoring this year, it did have two territories and again at least one successful breeding case. Poor weather apparently had no impact on breeding success and the more extensive management of agricultural plots certainly helped here.

The curlew is quietly making a comeback. However, when you take historical data into account, the decline is dramatic. In 1999, 22 pairs were still established and in the 1960s there were even 40-50 breeding pairs. This year, although 8 territories have been established, only one successful breeding case has been recorded. There is still hope for the Curlew in the Grenspark, especially if we allow them to rest during the breeding season.

The full breeding bird report 2021 can be viewed on our website.

Photo left: red-backed shrike - Bram Vogels

Photo right: curlew - Marc Slootmaekers