rssMar 14, 2026, 16:17

Godwits, redshanks and birdwatchers open the 2026 meadow bird season

The 2026 meadow bird season has officially opened at the Landje van Geijsel in Ouderkerk aan de Amstel, where migratory birds like godwits and redshanks have arrived from Africa. Birdwatchers gathered to observe the large flocks at the site, which is managed by Landschap Noord-Holland to provide a vital resting habitat. The event highlights the successful continuation of a local conservation initiative originally started by a local farmer.

Lifestyle Amsterdam Netherlands

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Minister announces fatbike crackdown: minimum age, exclusion zones and mandatory helmets

Dutch Infrastructure Minister Vincent Karremans has announced national measures to regulate fatbikes, including a minimum age requirement, a mandatory helmet rule for those under 18, and legal grounds for fatbike-free zones. The government is currently researching how to legally distinguish fatbikes from other electric bicycles to ensure effective enforcement. These regulations follow local initiatives such as the fatbike ban in Amsterdam's Vondelpark, with the helmet mandate expected to take effect in September next year.

Óscar García won't have Davy Klaassen back for crucial clash with NAC: 'We know a lot is at stake'

Ajax midfielder Davy Klaassen will miss the upcoming match against NAC Breda as he remains unfit, according to manager scar Garca. However, the team welcomes back Youri Regeer, who has returned to training after being sidelined for a month with a hamstring injury.

Netherlands will take in refugees in case of real emergency, says Jetten

Deputy Prime Minister Rob Jetten stated that the Netherlands will provide shelter to refugees fleeing the Middle East conflict in cases of genuine emergency. He also noted that the European Union is committed to preventing a return to the uncontrolled migration levels seen in previous years.

Prison and community service for violence at Loosdrecht emergency shelter protest

A 30-year-old man from Hilversum has been sentenced to 30 days in jail and 100 hours of community service for attempted arson during a protest in Loosdrecht. The incident occurred during a demonstration against the establishment of a temporary emergency shelter for asylum seekers. The ruling was delivered during a fast-track hearing following the unrest on Tuesday.

Cabinet sees no options for export ban on fighting dogs to Israel

The Dutch cabinet has decided not to implement an export ban on fighting dogs to Israel, despite concerns over their use against Palestinians. Ministers cited a lack of EU-wide support and stated that a national ban would be unenforceable.