Hundreds of parakeets damage cables and facades at Binnenhof
Around 600 ring-necked parakeets are causing damage and safety risks at the Binnenhof complex in The Hague, officials said. The birds have been gnawing on building facades and crane cables, raising concerns over potential electrical short circuits, Omroep West reports.
A spokesperson for the Netherlands Government Real Estate Agency said the damage poses a safety risk, requiring immediate action. “The crane on the Hofplaats has power cables, and the parakeets are chewing on them. That is a safety risk because short circuits can occur. A solution was necessary,” the spokesperson said.
The exact extent and cost of the damage are still unclear. “It is difficult to determine the damage amount because we do not yet have a full picture of where all damage has occurred,” the spokesperson added. Officials confirmed significant repairs will be needed.
The problem began after scaffolding was removed from the Hofplaats facade. The parakeets have been gnawing on painted window frames, putty, wooden roof edges, and roof coverings.
To manage the situation, a falconer will be deployed in the coming weeks to deter the birds with a hawk, flying daily until March 11. The method is considered humane and aims to reduce the nuisance without removing the parakeets from the urban area, according to the Netherlands Government Real Estate Agency and the advice of Vogelbescherming Nederland and the Omgevingsdienst Haaglanden, the national organization that advises on bird conservation.
Ring-necked parakeets are bright green with red beaks, and males have a dark ring around their necks. Originally from Africa and Asia, the species has become a permanent urban presence in The Hague.
The Binnenhof, home to the Council of State and both chambers of parliament, has been under renovation for several years, with delays pushing expected completion to summer 2031.
