Dijkmanshuizen - Nature

Dijkmanshuizen is a remarkable nature reserve on the eastern side of Texel, between Oudeschild and Oosterend, directly bordering the Wadden Sea. This salt-influenced meadow and marshland is a true paradise for both birdwatchers and plant enthusiasts.

What makes nature reserve Dijkmanshuizen so special?

• Bird paradise by the Wadden Sea: Dijkmanshuizen is an important breeding and resting area for meadow, water, and marsh birds. You can spot godwits, ruffs, bearded tits, reed warblers, tufted ducks, reed buntings, and kestrels here.
• Rare plants and flowers: Thanks to the varied elevation and wet conditions, rare species such as the broad-leaved marsh orchid, spotted orchid, marsh orchid, and yellow rattle grow here. It’s one of the few places on Texel where these species still grow in the wild.
• Unique elevation: The area lies about 50 cm lower than the surrounding land. This bowl shape was created by clay extraction, resulting in wet soils — ideal for birds and rare vegetation.
• Reed harvesting and management: The abundant reed is harvested in winter and used for thatching farm roofs. Natuurmonumenten keeps the reed wet using small windmills, which also benefits birds nesting in the young reed beds.
• Historic gift to Thijsse: In 1935, Dijkmanshuizen was presented to nature conservationist Jac. P. Thijsse for his 70th birthday. A few years later, the adjoining inlet ‘Burdets Hop’, originally a birthday gift for a Swiss bird photographer, was added to the reserve.
• Refuge during storm surges: When high tides hit the Wadden Sea, many birds seek refuge in Dijkmanshuizen. The higher areas and reed belts provide safe shelter during stormy conditions.

Practical information

• Location: Dijkmanshuizen is located on the eastern side of Texel, between Oudeschild and Oosterend.
• Not accessible, but visible: The reserve itself is not open to the public but can be viewed perfectly from the public road (Ottersaat).
• More birding spots nearby: Along the Wadden Sea dike you’ll find other bird-rich areas such as Ottersaat, Utopia, Wagejot and Zandkes — all worth a visit and admiration.

Dijkmanshuizen is a tranquil corner of Texel where nature still sets the rhythm. A place of quiet beauty — not to be missed by any nature lover.

Furthermore Dijkmanshuizen is near the following sights: Vogelhut De Wilster (±125 m), Ottersaat (±550 m), Birdwatching Hide Nieuw Buitenheim (±650 m), Nieuw Buitenheim (±950 m) & Wadden Sea Harbour of Texel (±1,3 km).

For information

Ottersaat, Oudeschild, Texel