Ottersaat - Nature

Ottersaat is a remarkable bird paradise on the edge of Oudeschild, right next to the Wadden Sea dike on Texel. The area consists of salty seepage ponds with small islands and forms an ideal refuge and breeding ground for many species of wading birds.

What to expect at Ottersaat?

• Unique seepage area: Ottersaat features a varied landscape of higher islands and lower pools. This dynamic environment attracts numerous birds and salt-tolerant plants.
• Breeding ground for waders: On the shell-covered islands, species such as avocets, common terns, ringed plovers, and little terns breed in spring.
• High-tide roosting site: When the Wadden Sea experiences high tide, large flocks of birds move to Ottersaat to rest – including redshanks, oystercatchers, and curlews.
• Saline vegetation: Due to intentional soil lowering in parts of the area, salt-loving plants such as glasswort, sea aster, and strawberry clover thrive here.
• Historic landscape: In the middle of the area, you can still see old wooden poles – the remains of the former Wadden Sea dike from before 1970. The construction of the new dike transformed Ottersaat into the nature reserve it is today.

Practical information

• Location: Ottersaat lies directly along the IJsdijk near Oudeschild, on the eastern side of Texel. Parking is available along the roadside.
• Accessibility: Ottersaat is not accessible to walkers but offers excellent views from the parking areas along the IJsdijk.
• Birdwatching nearby: Close to Ottersaat are several other wetland bird areas, including Dijkmanshuizen, Utopia, Wagejot, and Zandkes – all popular hotspots for bird lovers.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher or simply want to enjoy the peace and the view over a unique part of Texel, Ottersaat offers a fascinating glimpse into the Wadden landscape. Every season brings something new – from breeding birds in spring to thousands of resting birds in autumn.

Furthermore Ottersaat is near the following sights: Vogelhut De Wilster (±450 m), Dijkmanshuizen (±550 m), Wadden Sea Harbour of Texel (±800 m), Viewing Tower Waddenhaven (±950 m) & Birdwatching Hide Nieuw Buitenheim (±1,1 km).

For information

Ottersaat, Oudeschild, Texel