Spot birds at the Rottemeren
3 h1 stop€ 50 Calm
A morning of silence and a pair of binoculars on the edge of Zuid-Holland. From herons to birds of prey, the Rottemeren is full of them.
The Rottemeren is a vast nature reserve in Zuid-Holland where water, reeds and woodland come together, and where birds are everywhere. Whether you are a seasoned birdwatcher or heading out with binoculars for the first time, you will find something here. Come well prepared: binoculars, a telephoto lens if you have one, sturdy shoes, a rain jacket and a bird guide or app to identify what you see.
Each part of the area has its own residents. In the Boezembocht, the reed beds attract water birds such as the grey heron and great crested grebe. In the Bentwoud, with its woodland and heathland, you can spot woodland birds like the lesser spotted woodpecker. And at Rottemeren Noord you have a chance of seeing birds of prey such as the common buzzard and the sparrowhawk. Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when birds are most active, keep quiet and listen carefully. You will often hear them before you see them.
Route stops
Rottemeren
Water, woodland and windmills on the edge of the city
Grab your binoculars, a telephoto lens if you have one, sturdy walking shoes and a rain jacket. Bring a bird guide or app along with plenty of water and snacks.
Choose your spot: the Boezembocht for water birds such as the grey heron and great crested grebe, the Bentwoud for woodland birds like the lesser spotted woodpecker, or Rottemeren Noord for birds of prey such as the common buzzard and the sparrowhawk.
Stay quiet and move slowly from spot to spot. Pay attention to the sounds around you, as you will often hear birds before you see them.
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when birds are most active. Patience and attention will reward you with the best sightings.
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by PlayTryBe team