The Black-tailed Godwit

Red Alert for the Black-tailed Godwit! Grutto Design Stands Up for Our National Bird

The black-tailed godwit, our iconic meadow bird and proud national symbol, is in severe decline. Grutto Design is taking action, because without help, we may never see this beautiful bird soaring over our polders again. With the Red Alert cycling sock, we bring attention to this loss, but we want to do more. Every year, Grutto Design donates 1% of the total webshop revenue to protect the black-tailed godwit. And each year, we launch a special casual sock, with all proceeds dedicated to preserving the black-tailed godwit in the Netherlands.

Why the Black-Tailed Godwit?
The black-tailed godwit is more than just a bird. It is the symbol of our agricultural landscape, representing the balance between nature and farming. Nowhere in the world do more black-tailed godwits breed than in the Netherlands, yet their existence is under threat. Intensive dairy farming has replaced flowers and herbs in the meadows with protein-rich grass meant for cattle feed, but disastrous for the godwits. The new grasslands provide little food for godwit chicks, and early mowing often prevents them from becoming flight-ready.

An Alarming Decline
Since 1990, the number of black-tailed godwits has declined by about 5% each year. Without intervention, they will disappear from our landscape. The black-tailed godwit now represents all Dutch nature that is under pressure. By choosing Grutto Design, you directly support the black-tailed godwit and help restore balance to our natural world.

Let’s stand together for the black-tailed godwit!

Source: Vogelbescherming Nederland