Nightlife in Holland
Let’s find nightlife
Have you ever wondered what creatures you might encounter while hidden in the heart of nature after nightfall? It's a thought that has often crossed our minds. Yet, one major hurdle loomed over our ideas – the restricted access to natural areas between sunset and sunrise in the Netherlands. Nighttime animal sightings become a formidable challenge under such constraints. However, we were pleasantly surprised when we discovered a solution to making our dreams come true.
As mentioned earlier, we occasionally resort to booking a photography hide. While our preference remains roaming about in nature without such aids, this time, a photography hide was the solution. In Drenthe, just a ninety-minute drive from home, is a photography hide within private property. According to its description, a night's booking offered a high likelihood of encountering various nocturnal creatures such as martens and badgers – an irresistible opportunity.
Given that international travel wasn't on our agenda for the spring break, this alternative sounded appealing. We booked a night in the hide, carefully selecting a date which promised to have little wind (badgers dislike windy conditions), and left our home at around four o'clock on the set date. By five-thirty, we had set up our equipment within the hide, and explored its facilities – a toilet and a bunk bed for moments of fatigue during the long night ahead.
The long wait in the dark
Soon, the owner of the hide greeted us for a brief introduction before we settled in for the wait. With the sun having set, nocturnal wildlife began to stir. Our patience was soon rewarded as a swift movement caught our attention. A European polecat darted into view, vanished within an empty log, and reappeared fleetingly before disappearing once more – alas, no photograph. Nonetheless, with the night stretching ahead (a 14-hour stay), we remained optimistic.
Fortunately, we were more lucky us as the night progressed. A pine marten showed up, posing shortly on a fallen log before scampering up a tree. Moments later, a beech marten appeared, leaving us looking forward to more encounters. The clock hadn't yet struck eight, and already, three marten species had graced our presence – only the elusive badger remained.
Our vigil continued, interrupted by visits from rats, mice, a tawny owl, and the various martens. The European polecat made repeated appearances, offering ample opportunities for photography. Eventually, we took turns keeping watch while the other dozed, ready to awaken at the sight of something extraordinary. Then, at quarter to two in the morning, movement stirred once more – a badger!
Awkwardly navigating the logs, the badger made its way to the water pool, where it indulged in a sip before abruptly raising its nose, sniffing the air with suspicion, and retreating into the woods. What had startled it? The answer remains a mystery. Nevertheless, this night experience was unforgettable and once again we were in awe of Gods beautiful creation. Even amidst the shadows, beauty abounds.
