Apologies for the delay in the latest blogs. I’ve been quite busy with work, but I made an effort to visit the Halve Maan in Diest to capture some stunning bird photos using my Canon equipment, including a 500mm F4 lens. The warm welcome and guidance I received at the “Webbekoms Broek” made my nature photography experience truly delightful.

Due to heavy rainfall last night, hiking conditions were challenging in the wet region of Webbekom. The area, ranging from 20 to 76 meters in height, features hills such as Parelsberg (41 meters), Kloosterberg (53 meters), and Blakenberg (77 meters), with the Black Water flowing nearby.

Since the turn of the last century, the 240-hectare Webbekoms Broek has served as a controlled flood area, protecting residents in the Demer Valley from flooding. Known for its picturesque grasslands, reedlands, groves, unique flowers, and diverse water and marsh bird species, this area has earned the nickname “waiting basin full of nature.” The Webbekomsbroek visitor centre provides year-round access to a natural garden featuring pools, sunken roads, hay fields, and an orchard. Visitors can gain insights into circular and low-waste gardening and discover branch walls with integrated hedgehogs and insect homes, a willow hut and tunnel, and a willow maze. A small flock of Soay sheep helps manage the swamp zone, providing a seamless transition into the adjacent nature reserve.

They directed me to the best spot for photographing a stork family, and I’m thrilled to share the results with you soon.

Discover the rich biodiversity of Webbekoms Broek, where the swampy climate provides a perfect habitat for a variety of insects, which in turn attract a diverse range of wildlife. The wide reed collars of the area serve as breeding and resting grounds for an array of water and marsh birds such as storks, reed buntings, warblers, and bluethroats.

Additionally, the landscape is frequented by curlews, snipes, lapwings, kingfishers, and shrikes, highlighting the wetland’s natural beauty. Notably, a herd of Icelandic and Konik horses graze year-round, contributing to the flourishing flora with an abundance of vibrant flowers, including marsh marigolds, cuckoo flowers, hedgehog buttercups, yellow irises, queen’s herbs, and marsh trefoils. Experience the breathtaking colours and delightful scents, all while witnessing the harmonious coexistence of the region’s magnificent wildlife.

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw an entire stork family in their nest. Trying to capture these magnificent birds in photos turned out to be quite a challenge due to the considerable distance between us, but it truly touched my heart. Encountering wildlife always fills me with a sense of rejuvenation, offering a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

I am incredibly grateful to nature for providing me with these priceless moments!