Experience bird migration

Bird migration is perhaps one of the most exciting phenomena in nature. Every year, billions of migratory birds travel from one side of the world to the other and back again. They fly hundreds of kilometres at a time and encounter many dangers along the way. In the Netherlands, you can also get an up-close experience of bird migration during the spring and autumn. The national parks along the Dutch coast are “safe havens” for these long-distance fliers. They can stop for a rest or even spend the winter there. Find out the best locations to see migratory birds here.
Waddenzee Unesco Werelderfgoed_Lauwersmeer
Vogeltrek Tapuit
Photo: Henk Hupkes - Jos Scholten
Nationaal Park Nieuw Land - vogeltrek
Photo: ©Allwrite

 

 

 

Refuelling in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is located at an important junction in the middle of the East Atlantic migration route. Over 300 different species of migratory birds pass through our country every year. To survive the trip, the migratory birds depend on a sufficient number of safe lay-bys with plentiful food supplies along the route. So they can continue the journey recharged and refuelled.

Good places to see bird migration

Want to see this impressive natural phenomenon with your own eyes? Then it's best to head to open spaces, especially on the coast. You can also walk special birding routes in many parks. Listed below are the best locations in the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nieuw Land National Park, Oosterschelde National Park and NLDelta. Put on a good pair of walking shoes, grab your binoculars and enjoy the amazing sights!

Oosterschelde National Park