Several animals are commonly associated with the polders near Nijmegen, Netherlands. These include:
Grazing livestock: Cattle, sheep, and horses are frequently seen grazing in the polders, contributing to the landscape’s maintenance and providing valuable agricultural products.
Waterfowl: Ducks, geese, and swans are abundant in the polders’ wetlands, utilizing the waterways and vegetation for feeding, nesting, and resting.
Wading birds: Herons, egrets, and other wading birds thrive in the polders’ shallow waters, hunting for fish, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Small mammals: Field mice, voles, and rabbits are common inhabitants of the polders’ grassy areas, providing food for predators like owls, foxes, and weasels.
Predatory birds: Buzzards, kestrels, and other raptors soar above the polders, searching for prey on the ground below.
Amphibians: Frogs, toads, and newts are well-adapted to the polders’ wetlands, utilizing the water for breeding and the surrounding habitats for foraging.
Reptiles: Lizards and snakes can also be found in the polders, often inhabiting warmer, drier areas like hedgerows and stone walls.
Fish: The polders’ waterways support a variety of fish species, ranging from small minnows to larger pike and carp.
These animals play crucial roles in the polders’ ecosystems, contributing to nutrient cycling, pollination, and pest control. Their presence also enriches the biodiversity of the region and provides opportunities for wildlife observation and recreation.