Walckiers Park in Brussels has reopened to the public for the first time since it closed in the 1960s. The park is noted for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly as a habitat for

protected ferrets.

Located near Schaerbeek station, the park offers a much-needed green space in the northern part of Brussels. It forms part of the larger Moeraske site, which extends across the southern watershed of the Senne valley. The park was originally established in the mid-18th century and, along with the adjacent nature reserve, plays a key role in the area's ecological balance.

Brussels Environment, the regional agency managing the park since 2003, has overseen its reopening as part of a broader initiative to enhance biodiversity in the nature reserve. While the park spans 4.5 hectares, only certain areas are open to the public, with high-value ecological zones fenced off to protect the environment.

“The ferret, which has been here for 12 years and is protected in the Brussels-Capital Region, is a key species in the park,” said the agency. To protect local wildlife, the park is closed at night, allowing fauna to enjoy a peaceful habitat after dark. Photo by USFWS Mountain-Prairie, Wikimedia commons.