The Zwin nature park is a one-of-a-kind natural reserve with a diverse range of flora and animals. The plain moves to the rhythm of the tides and the seasons. Every season and every day are unique. There is always something to see or experience, so we went out with our cameras to explore what nature had to offer at this unusually warm time of year.

The Zwin natural reserve, also known as the Zwin plain, straddles the boundaries of Flanders and the Netherlands. The location is surrounded by dunes. The Zwingeul connects it to the sea. A huge volume of water from the North Sea rushes into the nature reserve at high tide. The quantity is determined by the height of the tide and the direction of the wind. The water recedes during low tide. The Zwin is classified as an ‘intertidal region’ because of this game of ebb and flow.

The Zwin trench divides into smaller streams in the nature reserve, where salt water spreads.

It’s amazing to see these large flat expanses and see the birds come in for their meals. A magnificent perspective with the north sea in the rear. Because of the daily impact of salty saltwater, the Zwin plain features unusual fauna and flora found nowhere else on the Belgian coast. The saline water provides highly peculiar circumstances and a distinct biotope: mud flats and salt marshes. Thousands of worms, snails, and bivalves reside at the bottom of the mud flats, providing food for a wide variety of birds.

The park is not huge, yet it is known as the Airport of the Birds. Birds come in from all around the world to eat. The museum is also worth a visit. It is a massive bird display in real life. There is also a flying simulator where you can see and experience what it’s like to fly as a bird. Some photos.

As previously indicated, there is a lovely green wooded area near the big water reservoir. This is also the location where numerous birds may be observed and looked after. This is the most gorgeous portion of the park in my opinion. Some photos are included below.

We returned to the lake area to take more detailed photographs. It’s incredible how many different organisms may be found in the waters. It is also possible to walk the entire region barefoot to experience Mother Earth.

Many cottages are placed in this huge region to provide tourists with binoculars or cameras with fantastic views. It keeps the animals in their natural environment without bothering them.

 

I must admit that I was amazed by the variety of birds at these locations. Seeing birds you’ve seen before in the wild up close helps you realize how large and colourful they truly are. Mother Earth and her creatures are so lovely that it makes you realize how fortunate we are when these animals cross our paths in the woods or along the roads.

Nothing is taken for granted, but having them say hello at any time of day or night brings a smile to my face.
Thank you, Mother Nature, for looking after us.

As humans, we must take care of you (Mother Earth)!

The circle of life!

Thank you very much.