Counts: animals and plants seem to be doing better in The Maasheggen

Things seem to be improving for the animals and plants living in The Maasheggen. That (tentative) conclusion can be drawn from the count of species found in the area. Last November 20, the results of the 2023 monitoring were shared during a meeting at Het Kruispunt in Beugen.

Over the past year, dozens of volunteers have moved into De Maasheggen to count the most common animals and plants. There are a total of 20 counting areas in The Maasheggen. In 17 of those areas, animals and plants are already being counted regularly. Counters are still being sought for the remaining three areas. Are you interested? Sign up at info@maasheggenunesco.com

The results of the 2023 monitoring show that in the past year many meadow sparrows have been spotted and also the summer thrushes, the nightingale, the goldfinch, the mockingbird and even the previously disappeared red-backed shrike have been observed in De Maasheggen.

The unusual crested newt has been seen in the northern part of the area. The alpine newt and pool frog are also common. The increased occurrence of amphibians in the northern part of The Maasheggen is mainly due to the restoration and construction of pools in that area.
In the coming year, the species organizations involved will actively work to involve even more landowners in monitoring and motivate them to do the proper management. In addition, it has been suggested that more research be conducted on the relationship between the flora and fauna present and the management of The Maasheggen.

For all the good news, there were also concerns, especially about ash mortality. Meanwhile, a working group of managers is considering how to prevent more ash trees from not surviving.