The weather has been very bad lately. It’s been raining from the sky and there aren’t a lot of sunny days, but it’s not bad enough to keep me and my four-wheel-drive vehicle out in the woods.

Bochelt is my chosen location for exploring nature. It is to be found in Belgium, close to the border with the Netherlands. The Lozerheide is a natural reserve near Lozen, covering an area of 210 hectares, managed by the Belgian Agency for Nature and Forests.

More about the location:

The region was originally covered in beech and oak trees, but later became heathland due to human activity. Efforts were made during the 19th century to transform the area into farmland by using flowing meadows. A system of canals transported calcareous water from the Meuse River to the surrounding region from the neighbouring Zuid-Willemsvaart and Kempens Kanaal. The meadows were formerly used for growing hay. However, hay was then cleared to make room for horse trams, cavalry barracks, and animals at Antwerp Zoo.

We take off with one of the initial photographs captured at the site.

It was clear that the area was steeped in World War II history when I arrived in Bocholt. During my hike alongside the canal, I observed the bunkers from that era. This bunker is part of the advanced position constructed along the Limburg canals in the interwar period.

However, the forest exhibited signs of the historical period. Arrows directed me towards an aeroplane crash during the war. The traces led to the plane crash of a British Army Lancaster, IME 843 LE-U, on 22 June 1944. A stone memorial has been erected, accompanied by a peace tree planted in its proximity. A peace tree was planted next to it a few years ago.

Coming to this location rendered me speechless. There wasn’t much to see, but on the other hand, I had a lot to sense and experience. A sense of grief and mourning for people who put their lives at risk in order to help others. In my opinion, it is appropriate that these people have a place of remembrance.

As I proceeded through the woodland, I encountered a notification warning of feral boar presence. This was a warning that there was an impending boar cull at this time of year.
I always had a sense that I might encounter wild boars today, but with the vast woods, one can never be certain.

I have only seen wild boars twice in the Mol nature reserve, and both times they were accompanied by their young. A lot of people told me that it can be dangerous to meet them with their cubs, as they can retaliate to protect their little ones. I was aware of the potential risks involved. But as shown in the pictures above, I observed some clearly visible trails. Continuing my search for a perfect snapshot, I ventured deeper into the forest and nature reserve. Suddenly, I was alerted by an unknown sound in front of me. Four wild boars, ranging from 60 to 70 centimetres in height, appeared directly in front of me.

It surprised me a lot. Quickly, I grabbed my camera in an attempt to capture them in a photograph as the moment passed quickly. All time disappeared and I was shocked and ecstatic at once. Encountering such colossal creatures right in front of me is a novel experience. But I was grateful for this moment.

I continued my walk through the damp woods, still somewhat stunned by what had just happened. In the mind, I had hoped to capture this moment in a photo, but as you can see, it worked out.

With my trustworthy Canon 300mm in hand, I captured images of elegant wild geese swimming in a lake next to the woods.
Some rain showers fell, but they did not detract from the enjoyment. The sunlight created a beautiful atmosphere amid the showers.

After a long time I tried to push my limits again. The amount of hiking significantly decreased due to an ankle and lower leg injury sustained several years ago.
Today I am working to regain my strength. I went on an 8.5 kilometre walk with over 20 kilograms of camera equipment in my bag, and it certainly caused some discomfort.
But I am delighted with the adventure I was able to experience.

The forest and woodlands offer an abundance of marvels to observe and experience. I am so pleased to be able to share them with you!

Thank you very much.