Texel nature
Texel has a lot of green nature for a relatively small island. The Texel nature is unique because of the diverse landscapes that the island is rich. From the dune areas full of colors to heathland, long walking beaches, pine forests to of course the mudflats. Because of the many fields, polders and meadows, Texel is an ideal habitat for a large number of species of birds, including migratory birds. On this page you can read where you can best spot birds, go hiking, cycling or just relax during a picnic.
National Park Dunes Texel
In the northwest of Texel you will find the National Park Dunes of Texel, which is more than 43 square kilometers big. In the dune area there are different pieces of nature such as De Muy, De Hors and of course De Slufter. The area is a varied landscape with, between dry dunes, moors, forests, salt marshes and vast beach plains, also many marshy dune valleys.
In this varied nature reserve, many animals and plant species have already found a place. The vast area of sea, beach, forests and dunes make the park a special location to visit.
Bird spotting on Texel
With more than 300 species of birds Texel is the best place in the Netherlands for spotting birds. For migratory birds Texel is the ideal place because the island lies on the border of the Wadden Sea and the North Sea. The real bird watcher visits the various bird watching huts on Texel. The spring and autumn is the best time to spot birds.
Texel sheep
There is no less than 14,000 sheep on Texel, you can see them everywhere. The variety De Texelaar is Texel’s own sheep breed. The Texel sheep farmers on the island are especially busy when lambs are born in the spring. It is very nice to watch the lambs when they are allowed to go out for the first time and jump through the meadow. Also fun is the cuddling of lambs, which can be done all year round.
Seals
The symbol of the Wadden Sea are the seals. Large groups of seals live off the coast of Texel. The sandbanks and the low water are ideal for lying in the sun or for raising the young seals. It is important that the parents are not disturbed. When there is danger, the mother will flee and leave the young seal alone. The so-called crysters are fortunately often found after which they are brought to Ecomare. There they get food and care. The best way to spot a seal is to book a seal tour.
Scottish Highlanders Texel
In the Bollekamer and De Geul of National Park Duinen, a nature reserve on Texel, a herd of Scottish Highlanders grazes. According to Staatsbosbeheer, the cattle help to reduce the sand dunes. They ensure that shrubs and fast-growing plants do not dominate too much and thus keep the landscape open. Despite being wild animals, the Scottish Highlanders respond well to people. Obviously keep sufficient distance.