Meet top nature observer Chris Bruggeman

Chris Bruggeman is a keen observer of nature and biodiversity, using the Observation.org website to record the species he spots in his native Belgium.

Why does nature appeal to you?

I've been fascinated by nature since primary school, inspired by two teachers. In secondary school, I created a herbarium, which deepened my love for plants. My greatest passions are plants and insects, and recently, mushrooms as well. I've been active in nature organizations like Wielewaal and Natuurpunt in Belgium for over 45 years, focusing mainly on nature studies. 

Nature provides peace, wonder, and the joy of discovery—it's truly self-enriching. Plus, you meet many interesting and like-minded people, expanding your circle of friends.

Why do you record your observations?

In the past, I noted everything down in notebooks, which piled up over time. My plan is to enter those old observations on waarnemingen.be someday. This site is fantastic because you can register your findings, and they can be used for scientific purposes. 

In our region, we've been tracking butterfly observations since 1991, initially compiling our findings in annual reports, later on the website. This allows us to see trends in the number of butterflies – unfortunately mostly negative. 

Recording observations is a gold mine for information, which I use as an editor of a natural history magazine to report on the state of nature, introduce new species, or illustrate trends like species decline and the advance of southern species.

How often do you go out?

Almost daily! Now that I'm retired, I have the time to explore either in the wild or my garden to document what I see. I also conduct inventories in local nature reserves.

Favourite Natura 2000 site?

That’s a tough question because choosing just one is hard. My first choice is Bellebargiebos in Waarschoot, an old forest where I inventoried mushrooms before it was officially accessible. It’s a hotspot, with rare species regularly found, even new ones to Flanders. Sadly, the area isn’t large, so peace is increasingly disturbed, affecting biodiversity.

Het Leen comes second; I’ve visited it almost daily in recent years, updating an inventory of over 4,500 species there. 

Recently, I’ve focused on smaller nature areas that aren't part of the Natura 2000 network, but they serve as perfect connectors between larger forests.

Observation you're most proud of?

While there are many, the discovery of ‘ruige taaiplaat’ (Lentinus strigosus) in Het Leen in 2023 stands out—it made national news as it hadn’t been seen in Flanders for 20 years.

A nice anecdote?

When I'm alone studying and photographing mushrooms, I often lie hidden in bushes, unintentionally surprising passers-by when I suddenly stand up. It's equally surprising for me if I get discovered by a curious stray dog!

Tips for the novice observer?

Patience is key for any beginner. Knowledge comes from practice and experience. 

Be critical of app suggestions—always cross-check with the internet or nature books after your excursions to verify your observations. This approach helps you learn and also trains your memory.