Nature, animals and climate

Nature in The Netherlands

The Netherlands is a low-lying country, with about 26% of its area and 21% of its population located below sea level.
The country is known for its flat landscapes, which feature extensive fields and canals.
The Netherlands has 20 national parks and hundreds of other nature reserves, spanning more than 400,000 hectares.
A special feature of the Dutch landscape are the famous tulip fields, most of which bloom in the spring.

Dutch Animals

The Netherlands is home to a wide range of animals, including deer, boar, foxes, bats, hares, and various bird species.
Dutch marine life includes seals, porpoises and varying species of fish.
Introduced species such as the wild boar and the Muntjac also inhabit parts of the Netherlands.
Part of the country’s fauna is the red fox, which can be found in virtually all parts of the country.

Climate of The Netherlands

The Netherlands has a maritime temperate climate, with mild summers and moderately cold winters.
Temperature varies by season, typically reaching 17-20°C in the summer and dropping to 2-6°C in the winter.
Average annual rainfall in the Netherlands is high, between 750-1000mm.
On average, the Netherlands experiences 166 rain days per year, concentrated in the months from October to March.
Wind is common in the Netherlands due to its flat landscape, particularly in coastal areas.
The country often experiences strong winds from the North Sea, known as the “Dutch Wind”.

Dutch Environmental Issues

Environmental issues in the Netherlands include water pollution, air pollution and soil degradation, largely due to agriculture.
The Netherlands is particularly susceptible to climate change due to much of its land being at or below sea level.
The country is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.
The Netherlands has also taken measures to protect its unique flora and fauna through a variety of conservation efforts.