Leiderdorp closes nature areas to protect breeding birds this spring
From March 15 to June 15, parts of Leiderdorp’s polders will be off-limits to visitors to protect nesting birds like the black-tailed godwit and lapwing. Residents can still enjoy birdwatching from designated paths while giving wildlife the space they need.
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Closed Area | Boterhuispolder (March 15 – June 15) |
| Protected Species | Black-tailed godwit, lapwing, oystercatcher, common redshank, shelduck |
| Restricted Access | Central Munnikkenpolder (stay on paved paths) |
| Dog Rules | Leashed in built-up areas; some off-leash zones available |
| Municipality | Leiderdorp, Zuid-Holland |
The municipality of Leiderdorp manages local nature reserves to balance recreation with wildlife conservation. By restricting access during breeding season, they aim to protect vulnerable bird populations while allowing residents to enjoy nature responsibly.
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Read the full translated article below
Breeding season is approaching
In spring, birds are breeding. They are already busy building nests. Birds do not only nest in our parks and polders but everywhere. For example, the reed bunting is hidden deep in the reeds, the robin and the blackbird in a hedge, a black-tailed godwit in the meadow, and a magpie high up in a tree.
Boterhuispolder closed
To give meadow birds peace for breeding and raising their chicks, we are closing the Boterhuispolder from March 15 to June 15. In this polder, the black-tailed godwit, lapwing, oystercatcher, and common redshank nest. Together, they drive away chick and egg thieves such as crows, herons, and buzzards. However, humans are a bit too large. They are therefore not welcome during the breeding season. From mid-June, everyone can once again fully enjoy this quintessentially Dutch piece of Leiderdorp. Dogs are still not allowed in the Boterhuispolder.
Birdwatching from the paths
In the Munnikkenpolder, you can spot some special bird species. For example, the shelduck, avocet, common tern, and swallow nest here. Avoid the central part of this polder to give the birds peace there as well, and stay on the paved paths around the polder. Many birds are also nesting in the Houtkamp and Heemtuin. You may encounter species such as the blackbird, robin, woodpecker, chaffinch, song thrush, and blackcap.
Dogs on a leash
In our municipality, dogs in public outdoor spaces within built-up areas must be kept on a leash. There are a number of locations where dogs are allowed to run free. For more information, visit www.leiderdorp.nl/hondenbezitter.
NB: In a previous version of this article, it was not clearly stated that the central part of the Munnikkenpolder should be avoided during the breeding season.