This colony hosts a big part of the Dutch Purple Heron population, more than 150 pairs. The key to the growth of the colony here was the adjustment of the mowing system in the Reedbeds at the Zouweboezem. In addition, a small marshland has been created on a former agricultural area, which provides a new feeding area for a few herons near to the colony.

However, additional actions will be needed to maintain the Purple Heron colony here, because the marshland will slowly, but surely fill up in the absence of fluctuating water levels. Because restoration of a more natural waterregime is not possible, new pools and ditches will be excavated and maintained through active management. Vogelbescherming Nederland, our project partner, supports the Zuid Holland Landschape in this work in combination with the LIFE programme.