Geldrop, Maarheeze and Heeze

The nature around Heeze, Geldrop and Maarheeze is dominated by green forests and scanty heathland. Forests of mainly coniferous trees have been planted in an area that mainly consisted of heather. The Vroolijke Jager is a good example of this. The remains of an extensive urnfield form a well-known monument on the'De Vroolijke Jager\\\' estate. A Roman money hoard and a sword in a tumulus from the Hallstatt culture have also been found nearby. The oasis of peace called Zevenhuizen Heide is located next to De Vroolijke Jager. A typical moorland with many laid-out paths, so that cyclists and walkers can get the most out of their route. A sea of conifers and heather bushes dominate the area. The strongly meandering Sterkselse Aa runs between the heath area and the village and naturally separates the heath from the built-up area. But the most famous heathland you will find your way through is the Strabrechtse Heide, which extends below Geldrop. This area is an important stopping point for migratory birds. The black stork likes to seek out the tranquility of the heath and in the spring, shovelers and garnets breed around the fens, among others. Early in the spring you can also hear the wistful call of the curlew over the heath. Another resident is the green woodpecker, which lives largely on the ground. Here he searches for ants and other goodies. But the most impressive animal that inhabits the heath is surely the crane, which announces its arrival with loud trumpets. When it stands upright on its long legs, the crane measures about 1.20 meters. Its wingspan is 2.20 meters. Although many cranes only fly over during the migration, there is often a group that spends a few weeks in Heeze-Leende in spring or autumn. During the day, the cranes search for leftovers of corn and potatoes on the farmland. In the evening they retreat to the tranquility of the heath.