The Dutch saying “In mei leggen alle vogels een ei” (In May, all birds lay an egg) is a common adage that highlights the peak of bird breeding season in the Netherlands. While it’s not entirely accurate to say that every bird lays an egg in May, it does reflect the widespread breeding activity that occurs during this month.
Reasons for Increased Bird Breeding Activity in May:
Favorable Weather Conditions: May brings warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and an abundance of insects, all of which are crucial for successful bird breeding.
Food Availability: The emergence of insects and the growth of vegetation provide ample food sources for both adult birds and their growing chicks.
Habitat Suitability: Many plant species begin to bloom and produce seeds in May, providing nesting materials and additional food sources for birds.
Exceptions to the Saying:
While the saying captures the general trend of bird breeding in May, there are some exceptions:
Some Bird Species Breed Earlier or Later: Certain bird species, such as owls and some raptors, start their breeding cycles earlier in the year, while others, like some seabirds, may breed later in the summer.
Individual Variation: Even within the same species, there can be individual variation in breeding timing due to factors like age, health, and access to suitable nesting sites.
Environmental Factors: Extreme weather events or changes in food availability can also influence the breeding patterns of individual birds or even entire populations.
Overall Significance:
Despite its exceptions, the saying “In mei leggen alle vogels een ei” serves as a reminder of the vibrant birdlife that characterizes the month of May in the Netherlands. It’s a time when many bird species are actively engaged in raising their young, filling the air with their songs and adding to the overall biodiversity of the region.