When you go out into the countryside on Goeree-Overflakkee, you might just come face-to-face with some very special island inhabitants. Some keep an eye on you from the air, or block your way during a walk on the Slikken. After all, sometimes there is a lovely flower on the footpath instead of next to it. Others are shy and make sure they stay at a safe distance, so the chances of running into them are slim. They will have spotted you long before you are even close. Still, the practised viewer can catch a glimpse of them.
Hairy savannah dwellers
Where the land meets the water on the south side of the island, the Slikken van Flakkee have formed. On this savannah-like plain, the samphire colours with the seasons. The size of the area makes it the perfect place for larger grazers. You will find the Fjorden horse, the Heckrund and about 50 Scottish Highlanders. The area is not freely accessible, but excursions are organised regularly. You really must have seen this unique piece of the Netherlands once!
Underwater predator
You wouldn’t think so when they look at you with those big black eyes, but the seal is the terror of the underwater world. The largest predator in our country sits at the top of the food chain in Dutch waters! Large populations of seals make their home on the large sandbanks off the coast of Goeree-Overflakkee. But they’re also frequently spotted in the Grevelingen. On a seal safari, you can see the animals up close.
At A Seal Stellendam , seals are taken in and cared for. These are mainly young seals and those that are injured or ill. Once the seals are fully recovered and able to survive in the wild again, they are released back into the wild.
Our air force
On warm days, they circle on thermals in search of their prey. With their keen eyesight, these hunters in the sky have everything in view. If you drive through our polders, or take a walk through our nature reserves, chances are you will come across them.
Our most humble bird of prey is the buzzard. Its silhouette betrays it as it perches on a pole, peering over its hunting grounds. When you get too close, it is quick to fly away. Less shy is the harrier. This imposing bird skims across the fields and does not care about anyone when the hunt is open. Do you also have sharp eyesight? Then chances are you will come face to face with the European White-tailed Eagle. This bird is also known as the flying door due to its size. Since a few years, this enormous bird has discovered Goeree-Overflakkee.
Pink herons
You might not expect them in the Netherlands, but the flamingo is an annual guest on Goeree-Overflakkee. Every winter, a colony of these pink birds perches in Battenoord. The channel of the harbour provides the perfect protection from the wind so that the flamingos can eat peacefully. Climbing the watchtower gives you a great view of the group.
