On 1 August, part of the green routes in Texel Dunes National Park will reopen.

Vulnerable

During the breeding season, Staatsbosbeheer temporarily closes a number of paths in vulnerable areas to give breeding birds the peace and quiet they need. Many of the species that breed in the closed areas are very sensitive to disturbance. If visitors or dogs come near their nests, they fly away, leaving the nest unprotected and therefore easy prey for seagulls and crows that prey on eggs or chicks. It also happens that birds do not return at all and the nest is lost. By closing the green routes during the breeding season, we increase the chance of breeding success and give the young birds the opportunity to fly the nest in peace.

Paths open

All green routes will reopen on 1 September. Some of the paths will open on 1 August or 16 August. In 2025, the paths will open as follows:

As of 1 August

• De Muy: path through Buitenmuy
• Bollekamer: path from Jan Ayeslag to Kompaspad
• De Geul: path between Hoornderslag, along Pompevlak to Mokweg
• Westerduinen: from Jan Ayeslag to Westerslag

As of 16 August

• Eierlandse Duinen: path through the basket valley towards Sebastopol
• De Slufter: from Paal 28 through Lange Dam to Sluftermond
• Bleekersvallei: from Paal 17 to Pacha’s Paadje
  

As of 1 September

• De Geul: from Hoornderslag behind Geulplas to Mokweg

Violations

The special investigating officers of Staatsbosbeheer regularly patrol the areas to monitor and provide information. For example, they observed more than 200 violations in De Muy in 16 weeks. Walkers, photographers, campers, cyclists and dog owners illegally entered the green route via the 's Hertogenboschpad and the Buitenmuy. Unfortunately, entering these areas during the breeding season can cause a great deal of damage. In general, many breeding birds for which Staatsbosbeheer has a conservation target are not doing well. They suffer from the disturbance. Violators can expect a hefty fine.

Do's and don'ts

How can you enjoy nature without disturbing it? Staatsbosbeheer offers the following tips:

• Stay on the paths.
• Stay away from the green routes during the designated times.
• Keep your dog on a short leash. Dogs on long leashes are just as threatening to birds and other animals as dogs running loose.
• Do not leave any rubbish behind.
• Stop every now and then to listen. What can you hear?
• Bring binoculars.
• Install a nature identification app (e.g. Obstidentify) on your phone so you can identify plants, butterflies, insects and birds (with a good photo).

The main photo on this page was taken by Eckard Boot.

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