Rest for breeding birds on the heathland
From mid-March, the breeding season starts until 1 July, also in Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide. Because many rare breeding birds are under extra pressure lately, extra paths in the centre of the heath will be temporarily closed during this period to give the birds the necessary rest. Curlew and nightjar in particular need adequate rest in the area as ground-breeding birds.
Route Ree remains fully accessible, as does Schaap en Duin, along with the connecting path between those two routes via the Kambuusduinen. From 15 March, route Lizard will no longer be accessible. In addition, a number of connecting paths will also be closed. These paths are marked with footsteps. Outside the breeding season, these connecting paths will remain accessible.
A new route is coming to Mont Noir. That route has not yet been signposted. Subsequently, the walking and riding routes in the Steertse Heide area will be extended this year. The site managers are counting on everyone's understanding so that we can continue to enjoy the unique species that have their home on the heath for a long time to come.
Outdoor code for nature
Sportsmen and recreationalists are also increasingly encountering each other in nature. To give each other space and protect nature, there is the Outdoor Code:
- Be friendly, give each other space
- Keep dogs on a leash at all times
- Feel responsible for your own behaviour towards nature and its users
- Dare to challenge another's behaviour
- Stay on the paths (MTB on MTB paths, horse riders on bridle paths) and give nature space
- A number of paths use both hikers, cyclists/MTB and horse riders. Show in a calm and friendly way that you are coming so that other recreationists/horses are not startled and reduce speed if you are using the path with a bicycle or horse.