) to insert bird names in your own language. The birdnames will automatically be translated for other users!
Upload images
Allowed image types are jpeg,png,gif
Max file size is 20MB
Description
In winter, this area has a strong attraction to many species of nomadic bird of prey species. If mice and voles are abundant in winter, this stretch of road is an excellent place to look out for Hen Harrier, Short-eared Owl, Common Buzzard, Eurasian Goshawk, Merlin. Rarer birds like Pallid Harrier and Rough-legged Buzzard have been seen here in the past, blending in the more regular crowd. At night, a thermal imaging camera can reveal many species of owl, like Long-eared Owl, Little Owl, Barn Owl and Short-eared Owl.
Most of the interesting species are nomadic during winter, so a visit is no guarantee, but on the right day, there will be so much activity you won't know where to look. The German countryside is 'messier' than the nearby Dutch countryside, and is therefore much more interesting for small mammals, and by extension, the birds that feed on them. This is an interesting place to stop by if you are in the vicinity, or bird watching in one of the nearby birdingplaces, like Millingerwaard.
To the north is a smaller road that can also be worthwhile to check out, with more small brush hedges and trees. It is always worth it to check out the surrounding area for many species of geese, including Pink-footed Goose and Red-breasted Goose, in bigger groups of the more regular geese like Greater White-fronted Goose, Tundra Bean Goose, Barnacle Goose and Greylag Goose.
Details
Access
The Nieler Strasse area is next to the small village of Niel close to the border between Germany and The Netherlands and close to the German towns of Kranenburg and Kleve. The Dutch city of Nijmegen, is also just 15 km away and it is easy to reach on bicycle and by car. The area can be reached from both sides. From Nijmegen follow the N325 and take the signs for Zyfflich. In Zyfflich turn right and follow signs to Niel. Keep in mind when coming from Nijmegen you will cross the border.
Terrain and Habitat
Plain , Grassland , Scattered trees and bushes , AgricultureConditions
Flat , Open landscape , WetCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
Winter , AutumnBest time to visit
Winter , AutumnRoute
Paved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Car , Bicycle , FootBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Be mindful of cars. It is a long, straight stretch of road and you should be well visible, but cars there are liable to speeding, so make sure not to enter the road.
Also, it is not adviced to park your car in the sloping little areas that lead into the fields. These lead to fields with heavy clay soil, and your car might get stuck in it. Speaking from experience.