Nowhere in North Holland is birdlife as rich as at Balgzand. The landscape here is expansive and beautiful. From several points along the sea dike, you have a magnificent view of the mudflats. A good viewing point is at the 't Kuitje Information Center on Oostoeverweg in Den Helder. Pay attention to the tides; as the tide rises, thousands of birds fly in large, swirling clouds toward the dike to catch the tide. Balgzand is so beloved by countless birds because it dries up twice a day, exposing endless sand and mudflats where a wealth of shellfish, worms, shrimp, and snails can be found. In spring, numerous birds, including avocets, terns, and gulls, breed here on the salt marshes formed against the dike. Even spoonbills have successfully raised young here. In July, large flocks of shelducks gather to molt, a spectacular sight. You can join a birdwatching excursion at least once a month.
