On 28 and 29 September, Prof. Dr. Valentin Klaus und Sophie Rosenek met with partners from the URBAN Animal Network Interreg project at Natuurpunt in Mechelen, Belgium. In discussions and workshops, we explored how local residents can be involved in monitoring urban wildlife and what impact local ambassadors and citizen science can have on this project. There was a lively exchange between the local pilots and the knowledge partners to further develop the framework for public authorities and local ambassadors, thereby raising awareness and fostering acceptance for the support of wildlife connectivity in urban areas.

In addition, we attended a guided tour through the city of Mechelen, focusing on its green and blue infrastructure, led by a local city guide. The tour highlighted the city’s biodiversity goals and provided insights into the ecological Masterplan Binnedijle.