Oostvaardersplassen
Flevoland
Oostvaardersplassen is a nature reserve located in Flevoland, the Netherlands, covering approximately 56 square kilometers. Established in a polder created in 1968, it is managed by Staatsbosbeheer and is part of the Nieuw Land National Park since 2018. The reserve is famed for its experiment in rewilding, where large herbivores such as Konik horses, red deer, and Heck cattle roam freely to maintain open landscapes resembling pre-human European riverbanks and deltas. The area is divided into wet and dry zones; the wet zone hosts extensive reedbeds and supports diverse bird species including great cormorants, white-tailed eagles, and Eurasian bitterns, making it a Special Protection Area for birdlife. The dry area is kept open by grazing animals to preserve habitat for water birds. Despite being fenced and lacking natural predators, the reserve plays a vital role in biodiversity conservation and wetland ecology. It has attracted attention for its unique management challenges, including controversies over animal starvation and culling policies. Oostvaardersplassen is also recognized internationally as a Ramsar wetland and Natura 2000 site, highlighting its ecological importance. Visitors can experience a rare glimpse into a semi-natural ecosystem shaped by large herbivores and rich avian fauna.
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Astuce: The best time to visit Oostvaardersplassen is during spring and autumn when birdlife is most active. Visitors are advised to respect restricted areas to protect vulnerable wildlife, especially during breeding seasons. Booking guided birdwatching excursions or seasonal walks with rangers can enrich the experience. Tickets or permits may be required for certain excursions, so check Staatsbosbeheer's official website for updated visitor information and any available discounts. Bringing binoculars and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for optimal wildlife observation.
Faits intéressants
- •Oostvaardersplassen covers about 56 square kilometers in a polder created in 1968.
- •It is an internationally recognized Ramsar wetland and part of a Natura 2000 protected area.
- •The reserve is an ongoing rewilding experiment with large herbivores like Konik horses and Heck cattle acting as ecological proxies for extinct species.
- •It hosts a diverse bird population including rare species such as the white-tailed eagle and Eurasian bittern.
- •The area lacks large natural predators, leading to controversial management practices including culling during harsh winters.
Histoire
Oostvaardersplassen originated after the creation of the Flevopolder in 1968, following the completion of the Afsluitdijk and subsequent land reclamation projects in the Netherlands.
Initially a low-lying wetland formed by flooded deep sandy areas, it developed into a valuable habitat for water birds and reedbeds.
In the 1980s, large herbivores were introduced to prevent overgrowth of woodland and maintain open landscapes, marking the start of a rewilding experiment.
The reserve gained international recognition as a Ramsar wetland in 1989 and became part of Nieuw Land National Park in 2018.
Over the decades, the area has undergone various management changes, including controversial culling policies to control herbivore populations due to the absence of natural predators.
Guide du lieu
Wetland Area
The northwest wet area along the Markermeer features large reedbeds and diverse birdlife including greylag geese and great cormorants. It is a key habitat for water birds and offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Dry Grazing Area1980s
The southeast dry area is maintained open by large herbivores such as Konik horses, red deer, and Heck cattle. This grazing prevents woodland overgrowth and preserves important habitats for water birds.
Contact
Téléphone: 0320 254 585
