Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park

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Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park, located in the Netherlands, is a diverse natural area known for its rolling hills, forests, heathlands, and sand dunes. The park provides a habitat for a wide range of wildlife, including various mammals and reptiles that thrive in its unique landscape.

Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
One of the largest mammals in the park, the red deer is a majestic species often seen grazing in open meadows or moving through dense forests. Males develop impressive antlers used for territorial battles during the rutting season.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Smaller and more elusive than the red deer, the roe deer is commonly found in the woodlands and edges of the park. These graceful animals are most active during dawn and dusk and can be identified by their reddish-brown coats and white rumps.

European Badger (Meles meles)
Recognizable by its black-and-white striped face, the European badger is a nocturnal animal that lives in complex underground burrows called setts. These omnivores play an essential role in maintaining ecosystem balance by feeding on insects, small mammals, and plant matter.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
A strong and adaptable species, wild boars roam the forests and open fields, foraging for roots, nuts, and small animals. They are highly social and live in matriarchal groups known as sounders, making them fascinating creatures to observe.

European Pine Marten (Martes martes)
This agile and arboreal predator is part of the weasel family. With its sleek fur and distinctive yellowish throat patch, the European pine marten is an excellent climber that preys on small rodents, birds, and insects.

Common European Adder (Vipera berus)
The only venomous snake found in the Netherlands, the European adder inhabits heathlands and sandy areas of the park. Despite its reputation, it is generally shy and avoids human contact unless threatened.

Slow Worm (Anguis fragilis)
A legless lizard often mistaken for a snake, the slow worm is a secretive reptile that thrives in the park’s grasslands and woodlands. It feeds primarily on slugs and insects, playing a vital role in natural pest control.

Eurasian Otter (Lutra lutra)
Once nearly extinct in the Netherlands, the Eurasian otter is making a comeback in wetland areas of the park. These semi-aquatic mammals are excellent swimmers and rely on clean waterways to hunt fish and amphibians.

Hazel Dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius)
A tiny, nocturnal rodent, the hazel dormouse is rarely seen due to its preference for dense vegetation and its habit of hibernating for long periods. It primarily feeds on berries, nuts, and insects.

European Hedgehog (Erinaceus europaeus)
A beloved nocturnal mammal, the European hedgehog is known for its spiky coat and ability to roll into a ball when threatened. It roams gardens and forests at night, searching for insects, worms, and small invertebrates.

Birds

The park is home to a variety of bird species, making it a fantastic destination for birdwatchers. With its diverse habitats, from dense forests to open heathlands, Utrechtse Heuvelrug attracts both resident and migratory birds throughout the year.

Eurasian Eagle-Owl (Bubo bubo)
One of the largest owls in Europe, the Eurasian eagle-owl is a powerful nocturnal predator with striking orange eyes and large ear tufts. It preys on small mammals and birds, often nesting in rocky outcrops or dense forests.

Common Buzzard (Buteo buteo)
This medium-sized raptor is frequently seen soaring above the park’s woodlands and open areas. It has a varied diet, feeding on small mammals, birds, and carrion, and is known for its distinctive, mewing call.

European Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis)
Easily recognized by its green plumage and red crown, the European green woodpecker is often found in mature forests. It is famous for its loud, laughing call and its diet, which mainly consists of ants found in decaying wood.

Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major)
Another common woodpecker species, the great spotted woodpecker has black-and-white plumage with a striking red patch on its lower belly. It drums on tree trunks to communicate and search for insects hidden beneath the bark.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A stealthy and powerful bird of prey, the northern goshawk hunts in dense forests, ambushing birds and small mammals. It is known for its sharp eyesight, fast flight, and aggressive hunting behavior.

Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius)
A colorful and intelligent member of the crow family, the Eurasian jay plays a vital role in spreading oak trees by burying acorns. It has striking blue wing patches and a wide range of vocalizations, including mimicry of other birds.

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
A dazzling blue and orange bird, the common kingfisher is a specialist fisher that dives into rivers and streams to catch small fish. It is often seen perching near water, waiting for the right moment to strike.

European Nightjar (Caprimulgus europaeus)
A master of camouflage, the European nightjar is a nocturnal bird that blends perfectly with the bark of trees. It feeds on moths and other flying insects, making it an important species for insect population control.

Willow Tit (Poecile montanus)
A small, agile songbird, the willow tit is easily identified by its black cap and soft, whistling call. It prefers mixed woodlands and is known for its ability to store food in tree crevices for the winter.

Black Woodpecker (Dryocopus martius)
One of the largest woodpeckers in Europe, the black woodpecker has glossy black plumage and a bright red crown. It creates large holes in trees while foraging for insects, benefiting other cavity-nesting species.

Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich biodiversity of the Dutch landscape. Whether tracking mammals or spotting rare birds, visitors to the park can experience a thriving natural world throughout the year.