Nico de Haan

Nico de Haan (22 July 1947 – 7 February 2026) was a Dutch conservationist, writer, and radio and television presenter who was known for popularising birdwatching in the Netherlands. He was known for his work with Vogelbescherming Nederland and his efforts to popularize birdwatching in the Netherlands through the broadcasting programs Vroege Vogels and Baardmannetjes.

Early life and education De Haan was born on 22 July 1947 in Aarlanderveen in the province of South Holland. He spent much of his childhood in Zalk, a village on the west bank of the river IJssel, where his father served as a minister within the Dutch Reformed tradition.

He completed vocational and higher professional training in land and nature management, attending the Middelbare Landbouwschool in Zwolle and the Bosbouw and Cultuurtechnische School in Arnhem.