Dutch big five wildlife (Red Deer, Roe Deer, Wild Boar, Badger, Fox, and Wolf)

The Veluwe is the largest area of woods, heath and drifting sand in the Netherlands, a broad ridge in the middle of the country that was pushed up by ice sheets in the last ice age. It lies between Apeldoorn, Arnhem and the IJssel, and it covers an area of several hundred square kilometres, with a mixture of pine and oak forest, open heath, sand dunes and small lakes. In a densely populated country, it offers an unusual amount of space for wild animals, and it is the best place in the country to see large mammals living in the wild.

The animals most often grouped as the Dutch big five are red deer, roe deer, wild boar, badger and fox, and in recent years a sixth has been added with the return of the wolf. The red deer is the largest, a handsome animal with a reddish coat, and the stags carry impressive antlers. In autumn, during the rut, the males roar to attract females and challenge rivals, an extraordinary sound that can be heard across the forest at dawn and dusk. Roe deer are smaller and shyer, living at the edges of woods and in clearings. Wild boar root through the leaf litter for acorns and roots, and sows with striped piglets are a charming sight in spring.

Badgers and foxes are more elusive, since both are mainly active at night. Badgers live in underground burrows called setts, usually on wooded slopes, and watching them emerge at dusk with a guide is a rewarding experience. Foxes may be seen trotting across fields or along forest tracks, particularly at dawn. The wolf returned to the Veluwe in the last few years, after being absent from the Netherlands for well over a century, and individuals and packs have settled in the area. Sightings are extremely rare, and the animals avoid people, but their presence is a landmark for Dutch nature. Visitors should treat them with respect and keep dogs under control.

The animals are easiest to see at the edges of the day. Early morning and the hour before sunset are best, when they come out of cover to feed on open ground. Quiet, patience and binoculars are the best tools, and walking slowly and downwind helps. Guided safaris by foot or in open vehicles are available, run by rangers who know where to look, and they increase the chances considerably. Several nature areas, including the Hoge Veluwe National Park, offer trails and observation points.

The Veluwe suits wildlife enthusiasts, walkers, cyclists and families. Apeldoorn is a good base. Wear muted clothing, keep to the paths and avoid disturbing animals, especially during the rut and when young are present.