One of the most impressive nature reserves on Texel is De Schorren. This vast area, managed by Natuurmonumenten, offers a unique insight into the world of mudflats and mudflats.

Salt marshes and mud flats

De Schorren is located on the north-eastern side of Texel, bordering the Wadden Sea. It is a tidal area where the water rises and retreats twice a day. At high tide, the water from the Wadden Sea flows in through the creeks. This creates a constantly changing landscape of mudflats and salt marshes, which are of great importance for both nature and people. Salt marshes are the parts that only flood during spring tides. Therefore, salt marshes have more varied vegetation than mud flats. The De Schorren area therefore consists of both.

Bird paradise

For bird lovers, De Schorren is a true paradise. The area is an important resting and breeding place for numerous bird species. Especially in spring and autumn, thousands of migratory birds flock here. Here you can admire species such as the avocet, the shelduck and the spoonbill up close. During the winter months, the salt marshes provide a safe place for wintering geese and shorebirds.

Unique flora and fauna

The tidal action creates a special flora and fauna in De Schorren. The salt water and the mud flats provide an ideal habitat for special plant species such as sea lavender and glasswort. These plants are well adapted to the saline conditions and give the area a beautiful purple hue when in bloom. It is also teeming with small sea creatures such as shrimps, crabs and shellfish, which are an important source of food for the many birds.

Come and see

You can have a good look at the Schorren from the dike. Don't forget to bring your binoculars to spot the many birds. To give the special plants and nesting birds as much peace and quiet as possible, the area is only accessible with excursions organised regularly by Natuurmonumenten.

The main photo on this page is by Henk Beijert.

More nature reserves on Texel