The breeding season has started. Between March and July, many young animals are born in nature reserves. Nature organizations therefore ask walkers, dog owners, and other visitors to give these vulnerable animals and their young enough peace and space during this period.
From early spring, many animals look for a partner, build nests, lay eggs, and have offspring. Birds and wild animals are extra vulnerable and sensitive to disturbance during this period with their young. With the campaign Protect the Young, Staatsbosbeheer, Natuurmonumenten, and LandschappenNL ask visitors to be extra considerate of nature and the animals living there.
Nature reserves offer the residents of North Holland space for relaxation. It is important that walkers and water recreationists do not cause nuisance to breeding animals. The province wants to protect vulnerable young animals and therefore supports this campaign.
Dogs on a leash
Dog owners are called upon to keep their dogs on a leash. Many wild animals see dogs as predators and can panic. Moreover, young animals that have smelled a dog are sometimes no longer recognized and abandoned by their parents.
Furthermore, it is important that walkers and cyclists stay on the paths. Water recreationists and boat traffic are asked to keep distance from shores and adhere to the permitted sailing speed so that reed birds are not disturbed.
Stay alert outside the season as well
The breeding season runs from March 15 to July 15, but for some species the season starts earlier or lasts longer. Therefore, according to nature organizations, it is important that visitors remain alert and avoid disturbance even outside the breeding season.