Local volunteer finds first lapwing egg of the season in Opsterland
A dedicated birdwatcher from Noardburgum has discovered the first lapwing egg in Opsterland, marking the start of the nesting season. This find highlights the region's biodiversity and the efforts of local volunteers to protect wildlife.
| Key Data Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Finder | Henner de Vries (52), Noardburgum |
| Location | Near Nij Beets, Opsterland municipality |
| Date of Discovery | March 11, 2026 |
| Award Received | Certificate and finder’s reward |
| Organization Involved | Vogelwacht Noardburgum |
| Mayor Involved | Andries Bouwman, Opsterland |
The Opsterland municipality plays a role in preserving local biodiversity by supporting volunteer organizations like Vogelwacht, which monitors and protects bird populations. The municipality also recognizes the efforts of volunteers through awards and public acknowledgment.
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First lapwing egg of Opsterland municipality found near Nij Beets
The first lapwing egg of the Opsterland municipality was found early Monday morning by Henner de Vries (52) from Noardburgum. He made the discovery on a plot near Nij Beets.
De Vries was up early. “I had set my alarm for half past five, but I was already awake at five.” After a cup of coffee, he drove through the mist toward the area. When the mist lifted and he went out into the field, he soon saw a lapwing take flight. Shortly afterward, he found an egg in a nest.
De Vries has been searching for lapwing eggs since he was a boy. As a child, he already searched the area around Gytsjerk. Nowadays, he is a supervisor for Vogelwacht Noardburgum and is also active in the watch area of Vogelwacht Nij Beets - De Veenhoop.
When the bird watch group checked the discovery and confirmed it was the first egg of Opsterland, De Vries described the feeling as “indescribable.” He then quickly headed to work.
Years ago, his son already went with him on these searches. His son won the Silver Lapwing award as a youth searcher. “I told him then: ‘Dad will get one too.’ And this year, I did.”
On Tuesday, he visited the municipal office in Beetsterzwaag, where Mayor Andries Bouwman presented him with a certificate and the finder’s reward. With this discovery, the Frije Fjild in the Opsterland municipality is now complete. Congratulations on this achievement, Henner de Vries!
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