In spring, the Sonian Forest is transformed into a maternity ward. Flowers and plants bloom, birds build their nests and fawns are born. The Sonian Forest Foundation is eager to ask visitors to be as careful as possible and is launching a special awareness campaign in Tervuren (Flemish Brabant) this weekend.
The animals of the forest need sufficient space and peace during the spring. In addition to fawns and nesting birds, spring flowers including wood anemones and wild hyacinths are once again in bloom. That is why the Sonian Forest Foundation is calling on visitors to be even more careful where they walk.
‘Staying on the paths is very important,’ explains Sanne De Troyer of the Sonian Forest Foundation. ‘Then, you won't trample on vulnerable flowers and plants. Keeping your dog on a leash is also important for the safety and peace of mind of breeding and newborn animals.’
Failure to follow the rules can have serious consequences for some animal species. ‘It is best to leave fawns alone, even if they are on their own,’ says De Troyer. ‘A mother deer quickly picks up the scent of visitors who have come too close. She will then reject her own fawn, leaving it vulnerable to predators. Birds and plants should also be left in peace.’
Sonian volunteers will symbolically hand out chocolate eggs to visitors who follow the rules. The campaign starts on Saturday 14 March at the entrance to Tervuren Park. You can also receive a chocolate egg on Wednesday 18 March at the Groenendaal entrance in Hoeilaart (Flemish Brabant).