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South Limburg is experiencing a resurgence of rare wildlife, with both the wall lizard and the greater horseshoe bat making a comeback thanks to targeted conservation efforts and careful land management. The recovery of these species highlights the success of initiatives aimed at restoring biodiversity in the region, particularly within the area’s unique mergel quarries.
These mergel quarries are proving to be crucial refuges for bats, offering complete darkness, consistent temperatures between 8–10 °C, and undisturbed conditions – all ideal for these sensitive creatures. The return of the wall lizard and greater horseshoe bat is being hailed as a positive sign that the region’s habitats are regaining quality, according to provincial officials.
Mergel Quarries Provide Ideal Habitat
The greater horseshoe bat, a species facing significant challenges across Europe, is particularly benefiting from the conditions within the Limburg mergel quarries. These bats require stable, dark, and cool environments for roosting and raising their young. The quarries provide precisely these conditions, offering a safe haven from external disturbances. The province of Limburg is increasingly positioning itself as a natural province, with these successes paving the way for further projects focused on ecological restoration and biodiversity preservation.
Alongside the bats, the wall lizard is also thriving. In 2024 and 2025, a total of 184 native wall lizards were released into the Oehoevallei area as part of a collaborative effort between CNME Maastricht, Stichting RAVON, Natuurmonumenten, the Province of Limburg, Elisabeth Strouven Fonds, and the municipality of Maastricht. The Province of Limburg provided financial support for this project, demonstrating a commitment to the long-term protection of this rare native species.
Wall Lizards Adapt Quickly to New Environment
Monitoring efforts have revealed that the released wall lizards have adapted remarkably well to their new habitat. They have been observed skillfully navigating the limestone walls of the Oehoevallei. Researchers noted the difficulty in locating the lizards at times, due to the abundance of crevices, fissures, and dense vegetation providing ample hiding places. In September 2024, four baby wall lizards were discovered, confirming successful reproduction within the population and indicating that eggs were laid in suitable locations.
The Oehoevallei’s varied limestone rocks, rich vegetation, and relative tranquility have proven to be an ideal environment for the wall lizards. The area’s sunny exposure and minimal disturbance further contribute to its suitability. The presence of the eagle owl, which receives extra protection during breeding season, also helps maintain the area’s peaceful atmosphere.
The initial phase of the project has now been completed, allowing the wall lizard population on the Sint Pietersberg to grow independently. Experts anticipate that the lizards will gradually spread to surrounding areas, including the Duchateau, Mergelhoof, and Duivelsgrot locations. The return of the wall lizard to the Sint Pietersberg marks a significant milestone after an absence of over half a century.
Interestingly, a resident of Maastricht recently discovered a deceased wall lizard inside his pillow, after noticing a strong odor in his bedroom. This unusual incident, reported by a volunteer with the Flemish nature conservation organization Natuurpunt, underscores the presence of these reptiles even in unexpected places.
Continued Conservation Efforts Planned
The successful reintroduction of the wall lizard and the continued presence of the greater horseshoe bat demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative conservation strategies in Limburg. Future efforts will focus on maintaining and expanding these protected habitats, ensuring the long-term survival of these vulnerable species. The province’s commitment to biodiversity conservation is expected to drive further initiatives aimed at restoring and protecting the region’s unique natural heritage.
What comes next will depend on continued monitoring of the populations and adapting conservation strategies as needed. The focus will remain on preserving the quality of the habitats and mitigating any potential threats to these recovering species.
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