Discover the Big Five
White-cheeked tern
The white-cheeked tern is a rare marsh bird, but at Zuidlaardermeer there is an entire colony. In autumn, white-winged terns migrate from the Hunzedal to southern Europe and West Africa.
Beaver
Europe's largest rodent used to be common here. But its fur, meat and also scent gland (potency enhancing was claimed) were highly sought after and in the 19th century it became extinct. The beaver was reintroduced in 2008. With success: there are now many young and they show themselves regularly.
Otter
The otter needs a clean environment. Therefore, the fact that this quadruped returned to the area in 2015 is a good sign. As a predator, otters play a crucial role in regulating fish stocks.
Bald Eagle
In the polder around Zuidlaardermeer, a pair of white-tailed eagles breeds every year. With a wingspan of more than 2 metres, it is the largest bird in the Netherlands!
Bittern
The bittern is a rare heron-like bird found in the reed beds around the Zuidlaardermeer. Due to its camouflage colour, you rarely see it, but you will hear it: 'Hump, hump'.
If you want to see these animals in real life, join one of the trips on the Zuidlaardermeer of the Groninger Landschap. Or visit one of the bird-watching huts.
" ''If you look closely you can see a whole bunch of flies' ' "
Special types
The list of birds in 't Roegwold is too long to mention. There are some special ones among them too. How about flamingos? Wilco was one of the lucky ones to capture them in spring 2019. You don't see those pink birds very often. ''Very carefully, I got closer and closer. At one point, they walked towards us and skimmed past us. Unforgettable.''
Today, it is good to look for the pink bird. When it will return is hard to say. But the mighty bald eagle is still around. Absolutely striking, with a wingspan of two metres. The largest bird of prey in Europe. Almost un-Dutch special that it also stays here.
Self-adventure
Do you like birdwatching? Then go out by yourself. You do not need much. Just being curious will help you a lot. And a pair of binoculars, of course. It is difficult to spot birds with the naked eye. And the more you do it, the more you will see and discover. Be amazed, just in Midden-Groningen.
