Scholekster stops anniversary Kaatsfest: New field in Sint Jabik!
Kaats event in Westhoek postponed: Breeding Scholeksters discovered on Kaatsfeld. Change to the Kaatsvereinigung Het Noorden.

Scholekster stops anniversary Kaatsfest: New field in Sint Jabik!
An unusual event brings movement into the kaats world of Westhoek. On the occasion of a 100th anniversary and the planned celebrations on the Kaatsfeld, a breeding Scholekster was discovered, which will cause some changes. This discovery was reported by the staff of the Waadhoeke municipality and now ensures that the Kaatsfeld cannot be used for the event. Loud Omroep Zilt It is illegal to disturb wild breeding birds, which complicates the situation.
The chairman of the commission for the promotion of cat sports, Hotze Buwalda, was informed about the closure of the field and expressed understanding for nature. “I can’t blame Scholekster for anything,” said Buwalda. The birds typically breed until the end of June, but the current nest, which consists of one egg, is unusually late. If the chick hatches by Sunday, this could make the Kaatsfeld usable again, but for the Kaatsvereinigung Het Noorden in Sint Jabik, a permanent relocation of the event is being sought.
Anniversary celebration in a new setting
The planned Kaatsfest not only includes a book and a 100th anniversary, but also a special celebration in its own field. However, with the move to the Kaatsvereinigung Het Noorden, the organizers are optimistic that they will have organized everything necessary in time. The fun and sport should now take place in a new setting. Even if the sudden changes are unusual for our cat friends, it is important to respect the interests of nature.
The Scholekster, which is currently breeding, is part of a protected habitat that falls under the Natura 2000 network. This network was set up in Europe to promote biodiversity and is subject to strict regulations to preserve wild animal species and their habitats. The Natura 2000 network in the Netherlands, which also includes areas related to kaatsport, covers a total of 197 areas and around 20,605 km², such as Wilderness Europe reported.
It looks like the chick event will not only offer a sporting challenge, but could also have an animal name as a special highlight: perhaps the chick will be named after the winner of the event, creating an exciting connection between sport and the animal world.