"Exploring Avian Wonders: Bird Watching in Wavershoek, Holland"

*Heri Tarmizi

European stonechat Image by Heri tarmizi

In the tranquil expanse of  Wavershoek, Netherlands, July 2019 unfolds like a symphony of avian life. Here, amidst the lush embrace of nature's bounty, lies a sanctuary for water birds, a haven where the dance of breeding and migration intertwines with the ebb and flow of life itself. As the summer sun casts its golden hue upon the marshlands, a tableau of winged wonders graces the landscape, each feathered inhabitant a testament to the intricate tapestry of existence.

It is within this verdant paradise that my journey into the heart of avian marvels unfolds. Accompanied by my wife, our one-year-old daughter, and our dear friend from Netherland, Gunilla Kuperrus, I embark upon a voyage of discovery, guided by the gentle whispers of nature's secrets.

Ayleen and Mommy 

As we traverse the pathways that wind through this enchanted realm, the air is alive with the symphony of birdcalls. Amongst the reeds and rushes, the Eurasian Spoonbill stands tall, its ivory-plumed elegance a sight to behold. Nearby, the Avocet gracefully wades through the shallows, its slender form a study in effortless grace.

Eurasian Spoonbill image by Heri tarmizi

Eyes trained skyward, we catch sight of the Eurasian Oystercatcher, its distinctive call echoing across the marshland. The Bunting flits amongst the branches, a vibrant burst of color amidst the verdant backdrop. And there, in the distance, the Little Tern performs an aerial ballet, its delicate wings slicing through the air with precision.

Oystercatcher image by Heri tarmizi

But it is not merely the spectacle of avian majesty that captivates us; it is the intimate moments, the shared connections with fellow enthusiasts, that elevate this experience beyond mere observation. Gunilla, our steadfast companion, is more than a guide; she is a kindred spirit, a beacon of knowledge and camaraderie in this journey of discovery.

Together, we share stories and insights, our passion for birding forging bonds that transcend language and borders. In Gunilla's company, Holland becomes more than a destination; it becomes a second home, a sanctuary where our shared love for nature finds its fullest expression.

As July unfolds its wings and prepares to take flight, we bear witness to the timeless cycle of life and renewal. For these birds, this marshland is not merely a breeding ground; it is a cradle of existence, a sanctuary where the rhythms of nature unfold in perfect harmony.

And as we bid farewell to Landje v Geijsel & Wavershoek, Holland, I am filled with gratitude for the privilege of bearing witness to its wonders. In the company of loved ones and kindred spirits, I have discovered that the true beauty of birding lies not only in the sights we behold but in the connections, we forge along the way.