Heyoule

The Heyoule nature reserve in Eben-Emael was the first created in the Saint-Pierre Mountain massif. The site was initially known for the richness of its entomofauna (especially Aculéate Hymenoptera) in relation to a very varied polliniferous and nectariferous flora. Thermophilic species are actually favored by the chalky nature of the subsoil, and the microclimate that prevails in this part of the lower Geer valley. The calcicole flora (marsh thistle, several orchids...) concentrates in the various limestone lawns and more or less recolonized thermophilic slopes, deeply cut by former flint and tuff quarries, areas also frequented by amphibians such as the calamite toad, by birds like the butcherbird or the hobby, or by mammals like the badger. The old tuff galleries are the hibernation site for several species of bats. Some plots adjacent to the nature reserve are not yet protected, despite their interest. This is particularly the case for the old high-stem orchards between the reserve and the plateau crops. Management is carried out by mowing or extensive sheep grazing, benefiting from the existence of a local breed particularly suited to this task. The expansion of the nearby Marnebel quarries could pose a serious threat to the site. (Author: J-L. Gathoye).

Public access: Public access to the nature reserve will be limited to guided tours, management projects, or any other activity organized on the site and approved by the management commission. Motorized vehicles and all-terrain bicycles will not be allowed in the reserve, except for agricultural machinery and others intended for site management (mowing, brush clearing, ...). Scientific studies will be encouraged and conducted after approval from the management commission. For public safety reasons, species protection, or management work, the management commission may temporarily prohibit certain access. Given the configuration of the site and the danger of falling (very steep slopes), only the intermediate Heyoule can be accessed by the public, who can follow the old access path starting from the Vicinal Bridge (parking) and leading to the beginning of Heyoule 2. However, the curator agrees to accompany individual enthusiasts or small groups (10 people) throughout the reserve.
Type: Site of Great Biological Interest (SGIB)

La biodiversité en Wallonie