Birdwatching in National Park Lauwersmeer

Konik horses, Scottish highlanders and other animals fill the landscape of National Park Lauwersmeer. A piece of paradise teeming with life. An area literally and figuratively embraced by both Groningen and Friesland. The park is especially known for its variety of birds. It lies at a junction of one of the most important bird migration routes in the world. Thousands of birds spread over more than a hundred species fly past your ears. Come and watch them, for instance from one of the bird-watching huts or observation towers. Both advanced and novice bird watchers will have a great day here. Something for everyone.

So what do you need when you go bird watching for a day? Less than you think. You can already see a lot with the naked eye, but binoculars are your best friend. Of course, these do not have to be expensive. For a few tenner you can get a pretty decent one. We also recommend shoes with sturdy soles, to make your feet more comfortable. To help you on your quest, a new, handy bird map has been developed especially for you. So you know what you will see. Moreover, it shows the best places to spot your favourite bird. The bird map is easy to download here. Just for your mobile phone. Always at hand. And get the bird sign-out card at the Activiteitencentrum Lauwersnest, the starting point of your adventure. Then you can make it a fun competition with your fellow spotters. So pack your Groningen bag, tie your laces and join us.

Time to set off. As a budding birdwatcher, it’s handy to have a bit of a head start. That’s what you’ll get here. Today, you’ll be heading out with birdwatchers Jörgen, Hans, Nina and newcomer Zarah. Zarah, as mentioned, has no experience yet, but she seems to be really enjoying it. Feel free to put yourself in her shoes. Together, they’re spending the day exploring National Park Lauwersmeer, on the lookout for hidden gems and beautiful birds to spot. The possibilities are endless. A great start to your birding trip.

Is birdwatching only for experienced birders? Not at all. It’s very accessible. Anyone can do it. You, your friend(s), mum and dad. Whether you’re experienced or not. “All you really need is a pair of binoculars and a bit of luck,” says Jörgen. You don’t have to be an expert to enjoy birds. And precisely because everything is new to you, you discover something different every time. What’s more, you can do it anywhere – as long as you look around carefully.

The great thing is that you can go birdwatching anytime, anywhere. “You can start in the park, from your garden, or venture further into the countryside. That accessibility makes it suitable for everyone,” says Jörgen. If you look closely, birds are all around you. Different birds fly in the woods than in the meadows. And every season brings different species to see. There’s plenty of variety. “Look, a bluethroat!” calls Hans. Zarah quickly turns the binoculars to the right. Another new discovery. This leaves us wanting more.

Junior Ranger Nien is keen to show you around. They kick off the day at the Jan Deensgat observation hut. Through the hut’s large viewing holes, you’ll have a sweeping view of the area. Here’s a brief taster of what a day’s birdwatching looks like. Of course, National Park Lauwersmeer is vast. Plenty of space. And plenty of birds. It’s up to you to explore it further.

As big as the ball of your fist or with a wingspan as high as your ceiling. You can come across them all in National Park Lauwersmeer. But of course, you need to know where to look. Fortunately, the park has several spots where you’re most likely to spot them. The bird map shows you the best spots. From the Ezumakeeg to the Jaap Deensgat and the Zomerhuisbos. Zarah chooses the latter. After a short walk through the grass, she climbs the wooden steps. Immediately, she is captivated by a sweeping view. She picks up her binoculars and peers into the distance. She spots a barnacle goose – a welcome sight in the area. Some birds are a bit further away and can only be seen with more professional binoculars. You know, the sort mounted on a tripod. Do you spot a birdwatcher with binoculars like that? “Don’t hesitate to speak to him or her. They usually love it when a beginner asks for tips. Sometimes they’ll even let you have a look through the lens,” says Jörgen.

Why not Stap into National Park Lauwersmeer yourself? Armed with a pair of binoculars, you too can tick the birds off your list in no time. With the bird map at your side, you’ll find the spots you need to visit in a flash – and the birds you can spot there. Who knows, you might even come across the majestic white-tailed eagle. Keep your eyes and ears open and experience it for yourself.