netherlands

Netherlands Animals

Trek Zone

Follow the Trail of Wild Nature – Nature Tourism in the Netherlands

The Netherlands, a country known for its picturesque windmills, tulip fields, and charming canals, is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. From the iconic European hare that can be spotted darting across open fields to the elusive European badger that roams the woodlands, the Netherlands offers a unique opportunity to encounter a variety of fascinating animals in their natural habitats.

As you explore the Dutch countryside, keep an eye out for the graceful red deer, a majestic symbol of the country's rich natural heritage. And don't forget to look to the skies, where you might catch a glimpse of the elegant barn owl or the strikingly colorful kingfisher. Join us on a journey through the enchanting world of animals that call the Netherlands home, and discover the beauty and diversity of its wildlife.

Mammals of the Netherlands

In the verdant landscapes of the Netherlands, a variety of mammals thrive, offering a glimpse into Europe's diverse fauna. The red fox, a cunning and adaptable creature, is widespread throughout the country, often spotted even in urban areas. Grazing in the meadows, one can find the roe deer, a small and elegant species, emblematic of the Dutch countryside. The European badger, with its distinctive black and white striped face, forages through the forests and is a symbol of the nation's wilder side. In the waterways and marshlands, the elusive European otter has made a remarkable comeback, now a conservation success story. And along the coast, the grey seal basks on the shores, a marine mammal at ease in the Dutch maritime climate. Each of these species plays a vital role in the Netherlands' ecosystems, captivating the interest of both locals and tourists alike.

Birds of the Netherlands

In the diverse habitats of the Netherlands, bird enthusiasts can marvel at a variety of avian species. The common blackbird, with its melodious song, is a familiar sight in Dutch gardens, while the majestic white stork can be seen gracefully foraging in meadows. The water-rich landscapes are a haven for waterfowl, including the elegant mute swan and the colorful Eurasian kingfisher. In the coastal areas, the herring gull is often spotted, while the Wadden Sea is a crucial stopover for migratory birds like the barnacle goose. The nation's forests provide a home for the great spotted woodpecker, whose drumming echoes through the trees. Each of these species plays a vital role in the Netherlands' rich and accessible birdlife.

Reptiles, Amphibians, Insects

Top Spots for Wildlife Observation in the Netherlands

  • Hoge Veluwe National Park, situated in the province of Gelderland, is a mixture of forests, heathlands, and sand dunes. It is a sanctuary for red deer, roe deer, and wild boar. The park also provides a habitat for the European badger and a variety of bird species, including the rare European honey buzzard.
  • Oostvaardersplassen, located in Flevoland, is a large wetland reserve known for its expansive reed beds and open water. It is famous for its large herds of konik horses and red deer. The reserve is also a haven for water birds such as the Eurasian spoonbill, purple heron, and various species of geese.
  • De Biesbosch National Park, one of the largest national parks in the Netherlands and part of the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta, is a freshwater tidal wetland. It is home to the beaver, which has been successfully reintroduced to the area. The park is also a breeding ground for the white-tailed eagle and an important stopover for migrating fish such as the Atlantic salmon and sea lamprey.
  • Veluwezoom National Park, bordering the Hoge Veluwe, is the oldest national park in the Netherlands. It is characterized by its rolling hills and mixed forests. The park is a good place to spot the European pine marten, and it is also home to a variety of bird species, including the black woodpecker and the common redstart.
  • Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, located near the coast in the province of North Holland, features dunes, forests, and coastal shrublands. It is a habitat for the European bison, which has been reintroduced to the area. The park also supports populations of fallow deer and a rich avifauna, including the nightjar and the European stonechat.
  • Lauwersmeer National Park, in the provinces of Groningen and Friesland, was created after the damming of the Lauwers Sea. This freshwater lake is surrounded by marshes, reed beds, and grasslands. It is an important area for migratory birds, including the white-tailed eagle, and it also hosts a population of the elusive Eurasian otter.

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