Spring breeding season: How to coexist peacefully with wildlife
As spring arrives, wildlife becomes more active, bringing joy but also potential nuisances like aggressive swans or early-morning geese. Learn how to minimize conflicts while respecting legal protections for animals during the breeding season.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Breeding Season Period | Starts in spring, ends in summer |
| Legal Protection | Animals cannot be captured or killed without authorization |
| Dog Leash Rules | Dogs must be leashed in rural areas and Groenzoom during breeding season |
| Off-Leash Areas | Designated zones available in the municipality |
| Feeding Animals | Prohibited; can harm animals and attract pests like rats and seagulls |
The municipality of Lansingerland enforces local regulations to balance wildlife protection with public safety during the breeding season. Their role includes educating residents on coexistence and designating areas where activities like off-leash dog walking are permitted.
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What does the breeding season mean for you?
Now that spring has begun, the breeding season has also started! The weather is improving, birds are singing, and we are busy preparing our gardens for summer. Animals are also active. They are looking for a mate, building nests, and the first eggs have already hatched. What does the breeding season mean for you?
The breeding season brings plenty of cuteness, but it can also cause more nuisance. Geese often start honking early, you’ll see more molehills, and swans can become more aggressive. No matter how much nuisance you experience, animals are protected by law. They cannot simply be captured or killed. However, there are steps you can take to minimize the nuisance caused by animals. That way, it remains a pleasant time for both humans and wildlife.
Do not get too close to the animals
It is important to leave animals in peace. Parents protect their young and may react aggressively as a result. If you get too close, the animals may attack to defend themselves or their offspring. This can be dangerous for both the animal and you.
Dogs must be kept on a leash during the breeding season
Also be careful when walking your dog. In rural areas, and throughout the Groenzoom, it is prohibited to let dogs run free during the breeding season. This is to give birds the space they need to breed safely and undisturbed. Do you still want to let your dog off the leash? There are several designated off-leash areas in our municipality where this is allowed.
Do not feed the animals
Another way to reduce nuisance is by not feeding the animals. Animals will choose the easiest way to get food. They will gather in large groups around the food, which also leads to more noise. Additionally, feeding animals is not good for them. Even if they look cute, it can make them sick—even with special animal feed. It also attracts other unwanted species, such as rats and seagulls.
The breeding season does not last all year. In summer, the breeding season is over, and the honking of geese and the number of molehills will decrease again. Until then, we can enjoy all the young animals—but from a distance!