Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen

This green oasis in the outskirts of Ghent extends over 220 hectares. It is one of the most bird-rich nature reserves in Flanders. The flowering hay meadows form the 'Wild Ghent Floralies' every spring. In this unique medieval river grassland complex - the 'meersen' - the Lys Valley is at its most beautiful. The Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen is best known for the large numbers of water birds in the winter half year. Those birds are attracted to the flooded grasslands. The different types of ducks are striking: wigeons, teal and slobe ducks are the most numerous. Smaller numbers of pintail, squatter, mountain duck, crested duck and table duck complete the list. Also prominent: the geese. The largest groups are Canada geese and barnacle geese, both of exotic origin. In addition, there are also many waders to see: lapwings, curlews, ruffs and water snipes. Most ducks, lapwings and snipes leave the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen at dusk to look for food at night in the Lys Valley. Conversely, there are also birds that visit the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen to come and sleep there: gulls, geese, curlew and ruff.

More info: http:// www.natuurpuntgent.be/de-natuur-in/natuurgebieden/bourgoyen-ossemeersen

Tip for a rest nature and environment centre De Bourgoyen - Driepikkelstraat 32 Mariakerke - tel 09 216 44 78

Pasar Drongen