N S W E
Wildlife Expeditions

Wildlife of
Belgium

Belgium stands out for accessible temperate-European wildlife-from red deer and wild boar in the Ardennes to vast North Sea mudflats and dunes that funnel spectacular migrations of shorebirds and seabirds.
285 Species
30,528 km² Land Area
Overview

About Belgium

Belgium's wildlife character is shaped by a small, highly urbanized landscape where nature persists in well-managed pockets-broadleaf forests, heathlands, river valleys, and a dynamic coastline. Despite its density of towns and farmland, the country supports a classic suite of temperate European species, with strongholds for mammals such as red deer, wild boar, roe deer, Eurasian beaver, and (increasingly) returning predators like the grey wolf. Belgium's natural heritage is closely tied to restoration and coexistence: many of its best wildlife encounters come from protected areas, rewilded wetlands, and carefully stewarded forests that demonstrate how biodiversity can rebound in a human-dominated region.

Key ecosystems anchor Belgium's biodiversity. The Ardennes in Wallonia-cooler, hillier, and forested-offers the country's most "wild" feel, with extensive woodland and river catchments that support large mammals, owls, woodpeckers, and diverse bat communities. In contrast, the North Sea coast hosts dunes, saltmarshes, and tidal flats (including internationally important wetlands around the Scheldt estuary), which are critical refueling stations for migratory waders, geese, and ducks moving along the East Atlantic Flyway. River-and-canal networks and lowland wetlands add another layer of habitat, benefitting amphibians, dragonflies, and wetland birds while improving flood resilience.

Belgium's conservation role is less about iconic megafauna and more about impactful policy, research, and habitat connectivity within Europe: it is deeply embedded in EU nature legislation, cross-border corridor planning (notably with the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, and France), and the Natura 2000 network that protects key sites for birds and habitats. What makes the wildlife experience unique here is its proximity and seasonality-within short travel times you can watch autumn rutting in the Ardennes, scan coastal seawatches for migrating seabirds, or visit restored wetlands where conservation is visible on the ground through bird hides, boardwalks, and active rewilding projects.

Physical Features

Geography

Belgium's wildlife distribution is shaped by a strong west-east gradient from low, urbanized coastal and river plains to the higher, more forested Ardennes. Intensive agriculture, dense settlements, and a tightly engineered river-and-canal network fragment habitats in the north and center, while larger continuous forests and semi-natural valleys in Wallonia (especially the Ardennes) support more forest and large-mammal communities. The North Sea coast, dunes, and estuaries provide critical stopover and wintering habitat for migratory waterbirds, while major rivers and wetlands act as movement corridors and key refuges in an otherwise heavily modified landscape.

30,528 km² Land Area
About the size of Maryland (USA) Size Rank

Key Landscapes

  • North Sea coastline with beaches, dunes, and coastal polders (important for migratory birds and coastal specialists)
  • Scheldt estuary and tidal wetlands (high-value brackish and freshwater marsh habitat)
  • Flanders lowlands: intensively farmed plains with canals, drainage ditches, and small woodland patches (high fragmentation; remnant habitats for farmland birds and small mammals)
  • Central Belgium loess belt and river valleys (mosaic of cropland, towns, and riparian corridors)
  • Major rivers: Scheldt and Meuse, plus tributaries like the Sambre and Ourthe (riparian habitat, fish movement, wetland pockets)
  • Ardennes uplands: extensive mixed and conifer forests, deep valleys, heath/grassland remnants, and peat/bog areas on higher plateaus (core area for forest wildlife)
  • High Fens plateau (peat bogs, wet heath, and wet meadows; specialized plants and invertebrates; bird breeding habitat)
  • Limestone/karst areas in the Meuse valley and the southern Belgian limestone belt (caves, cliffs, calcareous grasslands; bat roosts and orchid-rich slopes)

Ecoregions

  • Atlantic mixed forests (WWF)
  • Western European broadleaf forests (WWF)
Parks & Reserves

Protected Areas

Belgium's protected-area system is managed largely at the regional level (Flanders, Wallonia, and the Brussels-Capital Region) rather than through a single nationwide parks agency. Conservation relies heavily on the EU Natura 2000 network (Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas for birds), complemented by regional nature reserves, forest reserves, nature and landscape parks, and marine protected areas in the Belgian part of the North Sea. Belgium includes several designated national parks in Flanders (including Hoge Kempen, Bosland, Brabantse Wouden, and Scheldt Valley), alongside other large-area landscape initiatives that often overlap with Natura 2000 designations.

Protected Coverage

Approx. ~13-15% of Belgium's land area is under formal nature protection (dominated by Natura 2000 and regional reserves). Marine protection in Belgian North Sea waters is substantially higher (on the order of ~30-40% via MPAs/SACs), reflecting the importance of sandbanks, seabird foraging areas, and migratory corridors.

Notable Parks & Reserves

Hoge Kempen National Park

National Park; Natura 2000 sites within/around the park

Belgium's flagship national park protects extensive heathlands, pine and mixed forests, and former quarry/lake landscapes-excellent for heathland birds, reptiles, and large mammals typical of the Kempen region.

European nightjar
Woodlark
European adder
European adder
Roe deer
Roe deer
Wild boar
Wild boar
European pine marten
European pine marten

High Fens-Eifel Nature Park

Nature Park; extensive Natura 2000 coverage

The High Fens are among the largest peat bog and wet heath complexes in Western Europe, critical for specialized bog wildlife and as a refuge for forest species in the Ardennes/Eifel borderlands.

Red deer
Red deer
Wild boar
Wild boar
European wildcat
European wildcat
Eurasian beaver
Eurasian beaver
Eurasian woodcock
European adder
European adder

Zwin Nature Park

Nature Park/Reserve; Ramsar Wetland; Natura 2000 (bird and habitat protections)

A premier coastal wetland of tidal saltmarsh and lagoons on the North Sea, famed for migratory waders and waterfowl and for breeding/roosting colonies during peak migration.

Eurasian spoonbill
Pied avocet
Common redshank
Common shelduck
Grey plover
Little egret

De Blankaart Nature Reserve (De Blankaart)

Nature Reserve; Ramsar Wetland; Natura 2000

A key lowland marsh-and-lake system important for breeding and migrating reedbed and open-water birds, offering some of Belgium's best wetland birdwatching.

Marsh harrier
Great crested grebe
Little egret
Eurasian coot
Great reed warbler
Common kingfisher

Sonian Forest

UNESCO World Heritage (part of "Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests..."); protected forest areas and Natura 2000

An outstanding mature beech forest (near Brussels) that supports rich woodland biodiversity and important bat assemblages, and forms part of a UNESCO-listed beech forest complex.

Roe deer
Roe deer
European badger
Red fox
Red fox
Great spotted woodpecker
Tawny owl
Tawny owl
Common noctule (bat)

Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park

Natural park (Wallonia); includes multiple Natura 2000 sites

Limestone hills, calcareous grasslands, and caves create a biodiversity hotspot for orchids, bats, and cliff and valley wildlife-one of Belgium's most species-rich landscapes.

Peregrine falcon
Peregrine falcon
Eurasian eagle-owl
Eurasian eagle-owl
Greater horseshoe bat
Fire salamander
Fire salamander
European badger
Roe deer
Roe deer

De Westhoek Dune Reserve (De Westhoek / Westhoekduinen)

Nature Reserve (dune reserve); Natura 2000

Belgium's largest dune complex protects dynamic dune habitats (slacks, scrub, grasslands) that are vital for specialized coastal plants, reptiles, amphibians, and nesting shorebirds.

Natterjack toad
Natterjack toad
Sand lizard
Sand lizard
European rabbit
Common ringed plover
Skylark
Linnet
Linnet

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

  • Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe (Belgian components include the Sonian Forest)
Animals

Wildlife

Belgium's wildlife is characteristic of temperate Western Europe, shaped by a dense human footprint (cities, intensive farmland, canals) alongside a few standout natural strongholds. The two defining wildlife regions are (1) the Ardennes in the south and southeast-largely forested, hilly, and comparatively wild, supporting large mammals and forest birds-and (2) the North Sea coast and estuaries (notably the Scheldt/Western Scheldt system and coastal reserves like the Zwin Nature Park), which are important stopover and wintering areas for migratory waterbirds on the East Atlantic Flyway. Much of the 'signature' wildlife experience is therefore either Ardennes forest mammals (deer, boar, wildcat, bats) or coastal/estuarine birdlife and marine mammals (seals, porpoises).

~60-70 species (terrestrial + regular marine visitors), with recovering populations of beaver and expanding ungulates in the Ardennes Mammals
~280-320 regularly occurring species (with higher totals including rarities); diversity peaks on migration and in winter along the coast/estuaries Birds
~6-7 native species (low diversity typical of cool temperate lowlands) Reptiles
~12-14 native species, concentrated in wetlands, ponds, heathlands, and forest edges Amphibians

Iconic Species

Red Deer
Red Deer The flagship large mammal of the Ardennes. Best chances are in larger forest blocks and quiet valleys in Wallonia, especially at dawn/dusk; rutting season (early autumn) is a highlight.
Wild Boar
Wild Boar Widespread and often abundant in Ardennes forests and mixed farmland-woodland mosaics. Frequently detected by rooting signs; direct sightings are most likely in the early morning/evening from forest edges and tracks.
European Beaver
European Beaver A major conservation success story in Belgium, now re-established on suitable rivers and wetlands (notably in Wallonia). Look for dams, gnawed trees, and dusk activity along quiet waterways.
European Wildcat
European Wildcat A sought-after, elusive Ardennes carnivore. Belgium's core occurrences are in the more contiguous southern forests; sightings are rare, but camera-trap records and tracks confirm its presence.
Common Seal
Common Seal The most regularly seen seal along Belgium's North Sea coast. Individuals are often spotted from shore or on boat trips; haul-out use varies with disturbance and conditions, but seals are a key 'coastal wildlife' draw.
Harbour Porpoise
Harbour Porpoise The most frequent cetacean in Belgian North Sea waters, especially in cooler seasons. Short, rolling surfacings make them subtle but possible to see from coastal viewpoints and offshore trips.
Eurasian Spoonbill A standout wader of coastal wetlands; Belgium's coastal reserves (e.g., the Zwin Nature Park) can host spoonbills during migration and in the breeding season regionally, making them a prime birdwatching target.
White Stork A popular conservation emblem in Belgian coastal wetlands (notably around the Zwin Nature Park) where reintroduction/management and suitable marsh habitat have made storks a reliable visitor highlight.
Peregrine Falcon
Peregrine Falcon Now a well-known urban and industrial-nesting raptor in Belgium, using cliffs, quarries, and tall structures (including cathedrals and towers). Often visible hunting pigeons over city centers and river corridors.

Endemic Species

No endemic or near-endemic native terrestrial vertebrates (Belgium) Belgium does not have endemic native mammals, birds, reptiles, or amphibians; most fauna is shared with neighboring parts of Northwestern Europe. Conservation importance instead comes from habitat networks (Ardennes forests, coastal/estuarine wetlands) and flyway/seasonal concentrations rather than country-restricted species. Endemic

Notable Populations

  • East Atlantic Flyway importance: Belgium's coastal wetlands and estuaries (including the Scheldt system and reserves such as the Zwin Nature Park) can hold large seasonal concentrations of migratory and wintering waterbirds (geese, ducks, waders, terns).
  • North Sea marine mammal presence: harbour porpoises are regular in Belgian waters, and common seals are periodically visible along the coast, making marine wildlife watching a distinctive national feature despite the short coastline.
  • Ardennes large-mammal stronghold: the Ardennes supports Belgium's most continuous forest habitats and the country's best opportunities for red deer and wild boar, plus elusive carnivores like the European wildcat.
  • Beaver recovery: re-established beavers have created visible wetland engineering effects (dams, ponds, deadwood habitat) that benefit broader biodiversity along suitable river systems.
  • Urban raptor success: peregrine falcons and other adaptable raptors increasingly use cities and tall infrastructure, creating reliable wildlife viewing opportunities in heavily built landscapes.
Protection

Conservation

Primary Threats

  • Natural and semi-natural habitats are scarce and highly fragmented by dense settlement patterns, industrial zones, and intensive farmland. Loss and degradation are especially acute in lowland Flanders (hedgerows, species-rich grasslands, wetlands) and along river floodplains constrained by development and flood defenses. Coastal dune and wetland systems face limited space for natural dynamics due to adjacent built-up areas and tourism infrastructure.
  • A very dense road, rail, and canal network creates barriers to movement for wildlife (e.g., amphibians, small mammals, and forest species in the Ardennes). River engineering (weirs, sluices, canalization) interrupts fish migration and alters sediment and flow regimes in the Scheldt/Meuse catchments. Ports and logistics infrastructure (notably around Antwerp and Zeebrugge) contribute to habitat conversion and disturbance in nearby estuarine/coastal zones.
  • While Belgium's agricultural area is relatively stable, high-intensity farming drives simplification of landscapes (larger fields, fewer field margins), drainage of wet soils, and pressure on remaining semi-natural grasslands. In Flanders especially, intensive livestock and crop systems contribute to ongoing habitat degradation for farmland birds, pollinators, and amphibians.
  • Nutrient enrichment (nitrogen and phosphorus) from agriculture and urban runoff drives eutrophication in rivers, canals, and some wetlands, affecting aquatic plants, invertebrates, and fish. Chemical pollution from industrial corridors and historic contamination (including along waterways and near urban/industrial sites) can impair aquatic ecosystems. Coastal waters face combined pressures from shipping, port activity, and diffuse runoff into the Scheldt estuary and North Sea.
  • Hotter, drier summers and more intense rainfall episodes increase stress on forests (including Ardennes stands), reduce water quality, and heighten flash-flood risks in steep catchments. Sea-level rise and storm surges threaten coastal dunes, saltmarshes, and low-lying wetlands, while shifting phenology affects migratory birds using Belgian coastal stopovers.
  • Non-native plants (e.g., Japanese knotweed along rivers/rail corridors) and aquatic invaders can outcompete native vegetation and alter riverbank habitats. Invasive mammals such as American mink can pressure waterbirds and small fauna in wetlands; aquatic invaders introduced via shipping and connected waterways spread through canal networks. Management is complicated by cross-border pathways in the Scheldt and Meuse basins.
  • Wildlife diseases (e.g., amphibian fungal pathogens in fragmented pond networks) can impact already isolated populations. Livestock-wildlife interfaces and high human density increase the need for surveillance; localized outbreaks can have outsized effects where populations are small and habitats disconnected.
  • Heavy recreation and tourism pressure in coastal dunes and popular nature reserves can disturb breeding and roosting birds, especially in limited undisturbed habitat patches. In peri-urban forests and green belts (including around Brussels), high foot traffic and dogs can affect ground-nesting species and sensitive fauna, requiring zoning and seasonal restrictions.
  • As beavers, wild boar, and expanding predators in the broader region (e.g., wolves occasionally dispersing into Belgium) return or increase, conflicts can arise through crop damage, forestry impacts, and livestock depredation. Dense infrastructure and settlements increase collision risk and complicate coexistence measures.
  • Historic drainage, channelization, floodplain disconnection, and intensive forest management have altered hydrology and reduced natural river dynamics. Flood protection structures constrain space for rivers and wetlands to function, limiting habitat diversity and natural regeneration, particularly in lowland river valleys and estuarine zones.
  • Ongoing land take in and around metropolitan areas (Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent, Liège) consumes open space and increases fragmentation, light/noise pollution, and pressure on remaining wetlands and peri-urban forests. Urban growth also increases runoff volumes and heat-island effects, stressing urban biodiversity and connected waterways.
  • Regulated hunting is part of wildlife management, but it can affect population dynamics of game species (e.g., wild boar and deer in Wallonia) and can interact with conservation objectives where sensitive species are present. Disturbance and lead/munition legacy issues are localized concerns in some hunting areas.
  • As a major European transport and logistics hub, Belgium can be a transit country for illegal wildlife products and exotic pets. Enforcement is relevant at ports and airports; the pet trade can also contribute to introductions of non-native species that later become invasive.
  • Belgium's small North Sea fishing sector still contributes to pressures on marine ecosystems, including sensitive benthic habitats, when combined with broader regional fishing activity. Bycatch and habitat disturbance from certain gear types can affect seabirds and marine life, requiring coordination with EU fisheries management.
Visit

Wildlife Tourism

Belgium's wildlife tourism is niche but rewarding: a compact country where visitors can combine medieval cities with half-day or weekend wildlife outings. Economically, it's a meaningful part of the broader nature/eco-tourism and outdoor recreation market-supporting local guides, hides/visitor centers, accommodation in rural Ardennes villages, and coastal businesses tied to birding and seal-watching. Wildlife travel here grew from early 20th-century conservation and hunting/forest management traditions into modern protected-area networks (e.g., Ardennes forests, High Fens, and coastal wetlands) with strong bird-monitoring culture. Accessibility is a major advantage: dense rail/road links make most prime areas reachable in 1-3 hours from Brussels/Antwerp/Ghent, and many sites have boardwalks, marked trails, and observation hides-ideal for short trips, families, and car-free travelers.

Best Time to Visit

- March-April: Spring migration and early breeding activity. Expect large movements of geese/ducks/waders along the coast and inland wetlands; woodland birds (woodpeckers, owls) become more vocal.
- May-June: Peak songbird season in forests and heath; wildflowers and high insect activity. Great for dawn walks, bird photography, and amphibian spotting around ponds.
- July-August: Coastal nature reserves are lively with terns and seabirds; good for butterfly/dragonfly watching inland. Mammals are harder mid-day-plan early/late.
- September-October: One of the best windows-autumn migration on the North Sea coast (seabirds, waders) plus red deer rut in the Ardennes (dusk listening/observation).
- November-February: Wintering waterfowl concentrations in estuaries, polders, and reservoirs; starling murmurations on some evenings; clear, crisp days suit hide-based birding. Some mammals (fox, boar) are more visible at edges of fields/forests at dawn.

Top Wildlife Experiences

  • Dawn red deer rut outing in the Ardennes (Sept-Oct): join a local guide for a pre-sunrise hike to a listening/observation point to hear roaring stags and watch rut behavior at forest edges.
  • Beaver tracking at dusk along the Meuse/Semois/Ourthe valleys (late spring-early autumn): quiet riverside walk with a guide to look for gnawed trunks, dams/lodges, and potential sightings near twilight.
  • Coastal birding circuit in the polders and wetlands (Mar-Apr, Sept-Oct, and winter): spend a day moving between hides/boardwalks to scan for geese, waders, and raptors; ideal for photographers with a spotting scope.
  • North Sea boat trip for seabirds (Sept-Nov): take a short sea excursion from the Belgian coast to look for migrating seabirds and marine life; best in brisk conditions with onshore winds.
  • Seal-spotting from shore and tidal flats viewpoints (year-round, best low tide): walk designated coastal paths to observe hauled-out seals at a respectful distance; pair with interpretation centers for tide and wildlife timing.
  • High Fens boardwalk hike (May-Oct): guided walk on raised bog/heath to spot dragonflies, butterflies, and specialty birds; learn about peatland restoration and why trails are protected.
  • Night walk for owls and nocturnal mammals (Feb-Apr and Sept-Nov): small-group outing in wooded areas to listen for owl calls and scan for foxes and bats with red-light/thermal gear where allowed.
  • Amphibian spring evening at ponds and forest tracks (Mar-April): guided 'migration' walk to see frogs, toads, and newts moving to breeding sites (often supported by local volunteer conservation efforts).
  • Wildlife photography from hides at wetland reserves (Nov-March): set up in a hide for close views of wintering ducks, geese, and waders; excellent for beginners because distances can be short and light is soft.
  • Ardennes forest-edge mammal watch at golden hour (year-round, best Oct-Feb): stationary watching from a quiet vantage point for roe deer, wild boar movement, and raptors over clearings.

Safari Types Available

  • Guided wildlife walks/hikes (forest, heath, and wetland trails)
  • Hide-based birdwatching and wildlife photography (static observation from hides/observation towers)
  • Boat trips on the North Sea (seabird and occasional marine mammal viewing)
  • Riverbank dusk walks (beaver and riparian wildlife tracking)
  • Rutting-season observation outings (red deer 'rut safaris' on foot)
  • Night safaris on foot (owls, bats, foxes; sometimes with thermal/spotting optics)
  • Cycling-based wildlife routes (polders/canals/river corridors with frequent stops)
  • Citizen-science style excursions (migration counts, amphibian patrol evenings, guided monitoring events)
Fun Facts

Did You Know?

Wolves have returned naturally: after more than a century without resident wolves, Belgium confirmed modern recolonization in the late 2010s (with the first widely reported confirmed wolf in Flanders in 2018), and reproduction has since been documented in the country.

Beavers were wiped out locally by the 19th century, then reintroduced in Wallonia in 1998; they spread fast enough that beaver dams and flooded side-channels are now a real, visible part of Belgian river landscapes again.

You don't need a boat to see marine mammals: harbour porpoises are frequently recorded close to Belgian beaches (often most noticeably in winter and early spring), turning a "city coast" into a genuine wildlife-watching spot.

Belgium's peregrine falcons have gone from near-disappearance (DDT era) to city living: they now nest on major buildings-including well-known cathedral and high-rise nest sites in cities like Antwerp and Brussels.

The High Fens feel more like northern bog country than "urban Western Europe": its nutrient-poor peatlands support carnivorous plants such as the round-leaved sundew (Drosera rotundifolia), which survives by trapping insects.

The High Fens Nature Reserve (~4,500 hectares) is Belgium's largest nature reserve and the country's largest peat-bog/raised-bog complex-an outsized stronghold for bog-specialist birds, insects, and amphibians.

The Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) is Belgium's largest native rodent (adults can reach roughly 20-30+ kg), and its return has made it one of the most influential "ecosystem engineers" in Belgian rivers and wetlands.

Antwerp Zoo (founded 1843) is one of the world's oldest continuously operating zoos-an unusually long-running hub for wildlife breeding and public conservation work.

The Sonian Forest includes beech stands that are part of UNESCO's transnational World Heritage site "Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe" (Belgium joined the listing in 2017; later extensions followed).

Belgium's entire North Sea area is only about 3,600 km² (very small by European standards), yet it still regularly hosts harbour porpoises-making marine-mammal encounters possible along a short, heavily used coastline.

Next to France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg, you will find Belgium. The country is home to many beautiful wild animals, including foxes, badgers, weasels, beavers, red deer, wild boar, lynxes, and wild cats. Farmers have even developed two unique cow breeds and five unique breeds of chickens. People have spotted over 350 bird species in the country. Many amphibians and reptiles live across its Northwestern coastal plains, the central plateau, and the Ardennes uplands. Over 17,000 species of insects live in the country. Numerous issues, including loss of habitat, the introduction of alien species, climate change, and excessive water catchments, are causing some animals to go extinct.

The Official National Animal Of Belgium

Male lion standing proudly

Male lion standing proudly.

©2021 Photography/Shutterstock.com

The lion is the national animal of Belgium. Specifically, the Leo Belgicus, which translates from Latin to mean Belgian Lion, has been used to represent Belgium for centuries as a heraldic animal. Regarded as the King of Beasts, it represents strength, valor, nobility, royalty, and courage.

You can see the Belgium lion on the country’s official seal and its money. When the country separated from Luxembourg, legislators chose the lion as the official symbol. The lion is found on the Coat of arms of Belgium, which is used by the government on its official sites, embassies, and passports. There is also the black Flemish lion, which can be found on the Coat of arms of Flanders and is used by the Flemish government, a region of Belgium.

Where To Find The Top Wildlife In Belgium

European cave spider (Meta menardi)

European cave spiders are notable for their attraction to areas bats frequently visit.

©iStock.com/Jonas Rönnbro

There are many fantastic places to see animals native to Belgium. With such a wide variety of ecosystems, you will want to visit more than once to see all the wild animals here. Options include:

  • National Parks – Hoge Kempen National Park is a fantastic place to see animals native to Belgium, including Moor frogs, Natterjack toads, viviparous lizards, and Roe deer. Meanwhile, De Zoom– Kalmthoutse Heide’ is a great place to see smooth snakes, viviparous reptiles, crested newts, and Moor frogs, along with several species of butterflies.
  • Nature Parks – Belgium has several terrific nature parks where you can see animals native to Belgium. For example, High Fens-Eifel Nature Park is a terrific spot to see wild boars, roe deer, hen harriers, black grouses, wood mice, grasshopper warblers, northern shrike, great grey shrikes, meadow pipits, stonechats, and wheatears.
  • Wildlife Parks – There are also amazing wildlife parks across Belgium, like Parc De Furfooz. This location is a great place to see wood mice, foxes, bank voles, European cave spiders, and twenty-plume moths as you hike along the paths.

The Parc De Furfooz is in the Lesse Valley, close to Dinant, Belgium, about 1 1/2 hours southeast of Brussels. Located at the entrance to the Ardennes, which are the remains of a mountain range, this park is a nature reserve dating back to prehistoric times. With forests, caves, meadows, rock holes, caverns, and the Lesse riverbanks, there are many places for both humans and animals to wander. Parc De Furfooz has an area of more than 120 miles and the remains of an early Roman fortress can still be found.

One of the many species that can be found in the park is the European cave spider, known also as the cave orbweaver. Although they do have venom, they are not dangerous to humans and are not likely to bite but it is not recommended that they be touched because they may give a little peck.

The Most Dangerous Animals In Belgium Today

Wild Boar, Forest, Animals In The Wild, Large, Domestic Pig, Feral Hog

Wild boar is native to Belgium and is a highly valued game species.

©iStock.com/JMrocek

While there are many tame animals in this country, like foxes, badgers, weasels, and beavers, there are also dangerous animals in Belgium. Some examples of the most dangerous animals in Belgium include:

  • Eurasian wolves– Once thought to be extinct in Belgium, some Eurasian wolves are making a comeback, and they are one of the most dangerous animals in Belgium.
  • Wild boars – Belgium officials have been taking steps to reduce the number of wild boars for fear they may pass swine flu to humans.
  • Common adders – The only venomous snake to live in Belgium is the common adder.
  • Processionary pine caterpillar – These caterpillars cause an intense rash on anyone that comes in contact with them.

After more than 50 years of being non-existent in the country, the wild boar reappeared in Belgium. Although they are native to the area and are a highly valued game species, they are also highly destructive. Wild boars have been liable for crops being damaged, car collisions, ecological damages, and most significantly the transition of diseases.

The processionary pine caterpillar is a moth belonging to the Lepidopteran family and is a hazard to both humans, animals, and trees. This caterpillar has burning hairs all over its body that cause allergic reactions and health issues in dogs, cats, and people. When stressed, these tiny hairs can be ejected into their target. They are very destructive to pine trees as well, where they can be found a night feeding on the leaves. Known as processionary for the way they travel when they leave their nests – in a procession.

Endangered Animals In Belgium

southern right whale coming out of water

Northern right whale

©Foto 4440/Shutterstock.com

Unfortunately, there are some endangered species of animals that are in danger of becoming extinct animals in Belgium. Common threats to wildlife include industrialization, fragmentation of natural habitats, pollution, and excessive water catchment. Wildlife officials continue to try to take steps to save the lives of endangered animals before they join the list of extinct animals in Belgium. While you may think of Belgium as mostly land, the Wadden Sea is under its control. Some species that may become extinct animals in Belgium include:

The Northern right whale, also known as the North Atlantic right whale, is currently one of the world’s most endangered whale species. As of 2021, there were less than 350 in existence. Due to shipping routes and fishing grounds, whales run the risk of net entanglement and collisions. The right whale is listed as critically endangered.

Rarest Animals In Belgium

close up of a eurasian lynx - wild lynx

Thought to be extinct in Belgian, the lynx has been making a comeback.

©iStock.com/kjekol

In Belgium, spotting a lynx is extremely rare. They were thought to be extinct for quite some time but recent sitings found on a wildlife camera taken in the Ardennes offer solid proof of their return. It is believed that they are coming from the Eifel Mountains in Germany, as well as being illegally transported by hunters. The lynx is the largest European feline and can get as heavy as 66 pounds and as tall as 2.5 feet. Characterized by their very short tail and black hair on the tips of their ears.

Dwarf Sperm Whale Illustration
Dwarf sperm whales inhabit tropical and temperate waters around the world.

The dwarf sperm whale is considered a very rare marine mammal and it is not sighted very often. They are often mistaken for harbor seals, although at 8.8 feet, they are slightly larger. The habit of this whale is generally contained in tropical waters and it isn’t usually found in Europe although sightings have been increasing.

Largest Animal In Belgium

Biggest Horses: Belgians

The Belgians are one of the strongest and tallest drafts in the world.

©OlesyaNickolaeva/Shutterstock.com

The Belgian horse is also called a Brabant and the Belgian heavy horse. This breed is so strong that it can pull up to 8,000 pounds and is considering the strongest horse in the world. They are easy to handle, with an affectionate temperament, and have lifespans of up to 18 years. They have typical weights of between 2,100 to 2,300 pounds and stand at 5.65 feet tall (17 hands high).

Flag Of Belgium

Flag of Belgium

The Belgium flag is tricolor with yellow, black, and red.

©Faievych Vasyl/Shutterstock.com

Belgium’s flag is a tricolor, featuring red, black, and yellow vertical stripes. Each color stands for a separate region in Belgium. The black is symbolic of Namur and Flanders, the yellow stands for Wallon Brabant, and the red represents Nainaut, Limburg, and Luxembourg.

Many early Belgian flags had a horizontal format, with red on top, yellow in the middle, and black on the bottom, but after 1838 the vertical positioning of today became standard. There are a few reasons why this change took place. It was believed to have been influenced by the popularity of the French Tricolor as a symbol of independence and national unity. Belgium is only one of many countries that adopted it, substituting their own national colors. The colors of the flag were taken from the coat of arms of the Duchy of Brabant.

The National Flower Of Belgium

Barbut's cuckoo bumblebee (Bombue Barbutellus) feeding on a common poppy (Papaver rhoeas)

©Olga S photography/Shutterstock.com

The national flower of Belgium is the red poppy. More than a just flower, the red poppy symbolizes deep emotions and the enduring spirit of fighters in World War I. It also serves as a symbolic memory to the veterans lost in World War I and is used in honoring those that were lost. In the Memorial Day parade, people are handed a red poppy made from crepe paper showing comfort to those that were lost. Belgium shares its national flower with Poland.

These beautiful flowers have long been used in European herbal medicine, particularly for ailments in children and the elderly. Used mostly as a mild pain reliever and as a treatment for prickly coughs, they also reduce nervous overactivity. Very few flowers have played such a significant role in religion, politics, and medicine as the poppy. These red flowers have often enchanted poets and helped doctors for centuries due to their comprised of medicinal and edible qualities.

Animals Found in Belgium

285 species documented in our encyclopedia

Admiral Butterfly Ambrosia Beetle Arthropleura Ashy Mining Bee Asian Lady Beetle Atlantic Cod Atlantic Salmon Aurochs Australian Firehawk Avocet Barbut's Cuckoo Bumblebee Barn Owl Barn Swallow Basking Shark Beaver Bee Beewolf wasp Belgian Canary Belgian Laekenois Belgian Malinois Belgian Malinois Mix Belgian Sheepdog Belgian Shepherd Belgian Tervuren Bichon Frise Black Widow Spider Blind Snake Bloodhound Blue Tit Bouvier Des Flandres Box Tree Moth Box-Headed Blood Bee Brussels Griffon Bullfrog Bumblebee Cabbage Moth Camel Cricket Campine Chicken Carrion Beetle Cave Bear Cave Lion Cervalces latifrons (Broad-Fronted Moose) Chiton Cockroach Codfish Codling Moth Common Angelshark Common Buzzard Common Carp Common European Adder Common Frog Common Furniture Beetle Common Goldeneye Common Raven Common Toad Coryphodon Crane Crayfish Cross Fox Crow Crucian Carp Cuttlefish Darkling Beetle Deathwatch Beetle Devil's Coach Horse Beetle Diving Bell Spider (Water Spider) Diving Duck Diving Duck Dolphin Dormouse Dunkleosteus Dunnock Eared Grebe Edible Frog Egyptian Goose Eider Ermine Eurasian Beaver Eurasian Bullfinch Eurasian Collared Dove Eurasian Eagle-owl Eurasian Jay Eurasian Nuthatch Eurasian Sparrowhawk Eurasian Wolf European Corn Borer European Goldfinch European Polecat European Robin European Starling European Wildcat Fallow deer False Widow Spider Field Cuckoo Bumblebee Finch Fire Salamander Fishing Spiders Flycatcher Forest Cuckoo Bumblebee Fox Freshwater Eel Freshwater Jellyfish Frog Furrow Bee Gadwall Gastornis Gecko Giant House Spider Glass Lizard Goldcrest Golden Oriole Goose Goose Goshawk Grass Carp Great Egret Grey Heron Grey Seal Groenendael Ground Squirrel Grouse Gypsy Cuckoo Bumblebee Gypsy Moth Gypsy Moth Caterpillar Haddock Hainosaurus Hairy-footed Flower Bee Hammerhead Worm Hamster Harbor Porpoise Harbor Seal Hare Hedgehog Herring Herring Gull Hobo Spider Honey Bee Honey Buzzard Hoopoe Horned Grebe Hornet House Sparrow (English Sparrow) Hummingbird Hawk-Moth Hyaenodon Ichthyosaurus Iguanodon Irish Elk Ivy Bee Jackdaw Jackrabbit John Dory Kestrel Kingfisher Lace Bug Lamprey Larder Beetle Lazarus Lizard Leafcutter Bee Linnet Lizard Loach Lobster Long-Eared Owl Long-Tailed Tit Magpie Mallard Marsh Frog Mason Bee May Beetle Megalodon Merganser Mink Minke Whale Mole Moon Jellyfish Moorhen Mosasaurus Muntjac Muscovy Duck Muskrat Natterjack Neanderthal Newt Night Heron Nightingale Northern Pintail Nut Weevil Nuthatch Nutria Old House Borer Orange Spider Oriental Cockroach Ortolan Bunting Osprey Otter Palaeophis Papillon Parrot Partridge Peacock Butterfly Peppered Moth Pike Fish Pine Marten Polecat Pollock Pond Skater Pool Frog Potato Beetle Powderpost Beetle Purple Emperor Butterfly Puss Moth Raccoon Raccoon Dog Red Deer Red Fox Red Kite Red Squirrel Red-Eared Slider Red-Tailed Cuckoo Bumblebee Redstart River Turtle River Turtle Roe Deer Rough-Legged Hawk Ruddy Duck Ruddy Turnstone Salamander Salmon Sand Lizard Sandpiper Sardines Schipperke Sculpin Sea Roach Sea Squirt Sea Trout Seahorse Sedge Warbler Short-Eared Owl Shrimp Shrimp Six-Eyed Sand Spiders Skua Slow Worm Smallmouth Bass Smooth Snake Song Thrush Spadefoot Toad Sparrow Sparrowhawk Spongy Moth Squirrel Stag Beetle Stoat Stonechats Stork Sturgeon Sturgeon Swan Tawny Mining Bee Tawny Owl Tent Caterpillar Termite Thornback Ray Thrush Tortoise Treecreeper Trout Tundra Swan Turtles Vestal Cuckoo Bumblebee Viper Vole Water Vole Weasel Wels Catfish Whimbrel Whinchat White Butterfly Whiting Wild Boar Willow Warbler Winter Moth Wood Duck Woodlouse Spider Wool Carder Bee Woolly Rhinoceros Wryneck Yellowhammer Zebra Mussels

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