Craving a little countryside air? Right here in Brussels exists a place where nature thrives. Welcome to the Reedbed of Neerpede. This nature reserve offers a rural escape just a short distance from the city’s ring road. Imagine this valley with its river, ponds, groves, fields and hedges.
The Reedbed of Neerpede is a precious ecosystem. It sits within a vast marshy depression in the Neerpedebeek valley. The reserve itself covers a third of a 1.5-hectare area. For years Brussels naturalists have come here to observe diverse bird species.
The largest part of the reedbed lies north of the reserve. It stretches along a path on land belonging to the CPAS of the City of Brussels. Restoration work has transformed the landscape. An area once used for mowing and grazing has been cleared of trees. The Roselière de Neerpede now features a pond surrounded by plants. Hairy willowherb and marsh sedge flourish here.
To the north a strip of willows was kept. A second pond was also created. This wetland area also has old pollard willows near a horse pasture. These trees provide homes for little owls. They also add to the site’s biological value. Other birds spotted here include whitethroats, blackcaps, and garden warblers. You might also see reed warblers, marsh warblers, goldfinches or kingfishers.
The Reedbed of Neerpede will likely become important for amphibians. In March a large frogspawn of red frogs was seen by the second pond. Reptiles will also benefit from the habitat. Piles of wood have been left to encourage their presence. Many insect species are already here. Dragonflies visit and diving beetles and other aquatic insects have colonized the new ponds quickly.
The Reedbed of Neerpede plays an important role in water purification due to its wetland ecosystem. Its ecological importance highlights the need to raise awareness. It’s crucial to preserve this haven. The site was once a wet meadow in the 18th and 19th centuries. But woody species mainly willows colonized it in the late 1990s.
Now a careful management approach is in place. It aims to develop biodiversity appropriate to the site’s characteristics. This includes managing habitats such as: Megaphorbiaie vegetation like rushes, sedges, thistles, mints and meadowsweet. Also present are a reedbed a marshy forest mainly of willows and brambles.
Several interesting animal species have been recorded. Some of the most emblematic wetland species include birds like the little owl the marsh warbler the common whitethroat and the garden warbler. Bats such as the Nathusius pipistrelle are also present. Alpine newts dragonflies like the Norfolk hawker and four-spotted chaser and beetles like the rhinoceros beetle can be found.
The Maison verte et bleue develops activities to discover Neerpede. They focus on biodiversity and sustainable food. It is located in Neerpede in a renovated old farm.
Neerpede is the last large rural area in the Brussels region. It and nearby natural areas like the Vogelzang have rich biodiversity and landscapes.
The Reedbed of Neerpede is accessible during guided visits. These take place during management days or events organized by Natagora. To get here by public transport take bus 46 to the Neerpede stop or tram 81 to Marius Renard.
The Reedbed of Neerpede stands as a testament to Brussels’ commitment to preserving green spaces. It offers a sanctuary for both wildlife and people. As you leave take with you a renewed appreciation. Value the importance of protecting these natural treasures within our urban landscapes.