Bluethroats are now hard to see. With an estimated number of at least two hundred and twenty-five breeding pairs, this species is well represented on Texel. Early in spring, often around mid-March, the first birds return from Africa. After September, sightings of this species are very rare.
This year, 'three pairs' of Hen Harriers bred on Texel again. There were two females with one male and one pair. In total, eight young birds fledged. Nationally, this raptor is extremely rare, with only about ten pairs. Unfortunately, many young Hen Harriers do not survive their first winter. The photo shows a young female that fledged this year on Texel. A transmitter has been placed on her back. By tracking these birds, researchers hope to gain more insight into the decline of this beautiful bird. (source: Lieuwe Dijksen)
