De Blankaart

What De Blankaart is

De Blankaart is a large wetland in the IJzer plain, just outside Woumen and Diksmuide. The reserve consists of reed marshes, wet grasslands and open water. Natuur en Water Fonds manages part of the area, which forms part of a broader network of protected polder landscapes in West-Vlaanderen. For wildlife photographers, it is one of the most rewarding locations in Belgium.

What you will find to photograph

The area is exceptionally rich in birds. In spring, herons, spoonbills and various reed-dwelling species nest here. The bittern is hard to spot but is present. In autumn, large flocks of migrating birds gather: starlings in murmuration formations, geese, and sometimes birds of prey flying low over the reeds. The flat landscape produces enormous skies above the water. Those skies are as much the subject here as the birds themselves.

For bird portraits you need a long focal length, 400mm as a minimum. The open terrain offers little natural cover, so a camouflage net or a low position from inside your car can make a real difference. For landscape shots featuring reeds and water reflections, a 70-200mm works well: it compresses the layers of the marsh in a pleasing way.

Light and season

Early morning light in spring is worth its weight in gold. Mist rises off the water and the reeds glow orange. In autumn the light sits lower and warmer, and the chances of dramatic cloud formations are higher. Winter is harsher but not without interest: frost settles over the reeds and meadows, and waterbirds cluster on whatever open water remains unfrozen.

Practical information

You can park at the visitor centre on Remi Boyavalstraat in Woumen, from where footpaths lead through the reserve. The paths are free to access. Do bear in mind the breeding season, as some zones are closed during that period. Boots are strongly recommended, since the paths run alongside wet banks and can be muddy after rain. The area can also be explored by car along the surrounding dyke roads beside the IJzer.

Sources and further reading

• Natuurpunt - De Blankaart
• Agentschap Natuur en Bos - IJzervallei
• Wikipedia - De Blankaart