Nightjar

The nightjar is one of the showpieces of Bosland. The chance that you will see one during this walk is small. As the name suggests, the nightjar is mainly active at night.

The Pijnven has long been known for its important population of nightjars. The mysterious and specialized way of life of the nightjar makes this European protected species difficult to study.

The nightjar population in Bosland has been closely monitored for 25 years using a standardized counting method. Since 2009, a transmitter project has been set up in Flanders in collaboration with the universities of Leuven and Ghent. This scientific research provides unique information and insights on habitat use, population densities, the species' response to management works,... . The nightjar research in Bosland is the basis for the development of an exciting and groundbreaking interaction between science and practice.

Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos