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Uitkerkse Polder

Coast  >  Belgium

Salty meadows close to the Flemish coast. It is the most important meadow bird area in Flanders, both in summer and in winter.

Added* by Antoinne Sterk
Most recent update 23 April 2023

Description

Located between the busy seaside towns of Blankenberge and De Haan and the quiet polder villages of Zuienkerke and Nieuwmunster, lies an ancient pasture landscape, the Uitkerkse Polder. During the winter thousands of geese settle here, while spring brings hundreds of meadow birds like Black-tailed Godwit, Common Redshank, Eurasian Oystercatcher, Northern Lapwing, Avocet and Garganey. Also good chances to see Short-eared Owl in autumn and especially winter and early spring.

Details

Access

Best explored walking/cycling. The visitor centre is located at the eastern part of the area. This is a good starting point for the various routes throughout the Uitkerkse Polder. There are three bird hides in walking distance of the visitor center. Shown on the map is the longest walking route (6,7 km). If you travel by car, follow the signs from the Saint Amand's Church in Uitkerke. Click on the P in the map to get directions to the parking of the visitor center.

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Agriculture , Grassland

Conditions

Flat

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Spring migration , Autumn migration

Route

Paved road

Difficulty walking trail

Easy

Accessible by

Foot , Bicycle

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Links

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

Other birds you can see here

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