Huizingen domain becomes 'living heritage farm' for rare animal breeds

The provincial domain of Huizingen has officially earned the title of 'living heritage farm,' a distinction awarded by Steunpunt Levend Erfgoed (SLE). This recognition celebrates the domain's commitment to safeguarding rare and indigenous breeds of farm and backyard animals.

The animal park at the domain is now home to several unique species, including the Flemish goat, the Brabant chicken, the Belgian bantam, the Vorst duck, and the Belgian tumbler pigeon. The domain provides these animals with shelter, daily care, and ensures they are visible to the public, fostering an understanding of their heritage.

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What makes this farm so valuable is that visitors can encounter animal species here in an educational way that we risk losing otherwise. With an animal park like Huizingen, we show that heritage is not just in display cases, but also alive.

Jan Martens of SLE highlighted the educational value of the Huizingen domain, stating, "What makes this farm so valuable is that visitors can encounter animal species here in an educational way that we risk losing otherwise. With an animal park like Huizingen, we show that heritage is not just in display cases, but also alive."

Martens further stressed the importance of conservation efforts. "It is important that we continue to protect rare species to guarantee their survival. Thanks to collaborations like this, rare breeds will continue to exist for future generations," he added. The initiative aims to ensure that these traditional breeds are not forgotten and remain a part of the region's agricultural history.

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It is important that we continue to protect rare species to guarantee their survival. Thanks to collaborations like this, rare breeds will continue to exist for future generations.