# De Kuifeend

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Canonical page: https://mytuur.com/en/city/antwerp/spot/de-kuifeend/

Content updated: 2026-06-22

De Kuifeend is a nature reserve in Antwerp’s port, enclosed by the loop of the Antwerp North railway marshalling yard. Industry, busy roads, and the Hooge Maey landfill press close around it. Ponds, reed beds, grasslands, and the surviving Grote Kreek create a wetland mosaic within that infrastructure. A walking path and birdwatching huts frame the water. Railway safety measures limit access, leaving the industrial skyline visible beyond the reeds.

Established after the port and railway yard expanded, the site developed from low Oorderen polder ground. Fossil Scheldt sand covered some sections, while lower ground filled with water. Buffer dikes later reduced industrial pressure, and new ponds expanded the wetland habitat. Natuurpunt manages the area with local authorities and landowners. Volunteers prune willows, mow reeds, clear streams, and install nest boxes for wetland wildlife. Many bird species breed or rest here, including gadwall, reed warbler, bluethroat, and avocet. Ramsar and Natura 2000 designations recognise its international value for waterbirds. The gadwall remains a memorable detail, appearing among reeds beside Antwerp’s working port.

- City: [Antwerp](https://mytuur.com/en/city/antwerp/)

## Photos

- ![](https://mytuur-bucket.s3.amazonaws.com/image_DeKuifeend_683ffbb5717a3e13abad48c8_0.jpg) — [Image: wikimedia](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bestand:Kuifeend_01.jpg)

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