The Netherlands still boast the largest breeding population of black-tailed godwits in Europe, in spite of the continuous agricultural encroachment on nature. Enough for the Dutch to elect it their national bird in 2016. Long-legged, long-billed, the godwits were once considered a delicatesse in the incomparable English cuisine.
In summer, Black-tailed godwits acquire their characteristic orange-brown chests and bellies.
