This 'fish doorbell' cam from the Netherlands is attracting millions
Migrating salmon swim upstream, a journey similar to the fish in Utrecht relying on the city's innovative 'fish doorbell' to reach their spawning grounds. (Photo by Jeff T. Green/Getty Images)
UTRECHT, Netherlands - A Dutch city has found an unusual way to let the public help its aquatic wildlife—by ringing a "fish doorbell."
The city of Utrecht has installed a live-streaming underwater camera at a river lock that allows viewers to spot migrating fish and signal authorities when they need help passing through. The innovative project has drawn millions of viewers worldwide since its launch five years ago, blending environmental activism with a relaxing online experience.
How does the ‘fish doorbell’ work?
The backstory:
Every spring, freshwater fish migrate to shallow waters to spawn, but man-made locks can block their path. The Weerdsluis lock in Utrecht, for example, is rarely opened for boats in the spring, leaving fish stuck on one side.
To solve this issue, ecologist Mark van Heukelum developed a simple but effective solution:
- An underwater camera at the lock streams live footage online.
- Viewers from around the world watch the livestream at their leisure.
- If they spot a fish, they press a button, sending a screenshot to organizers.
- Once enough fish are detected, a local water worker opens the lock, allowing them to continue their journey.
The project has become an unexpected internet sensation, turning ordinary citizens into virtual wildlife rangers.
Why does the fish doorbell matter?
Why you should care:
Fish like bream, pike, and bass need access to shallow waters to spawn. When they get stuck at the lock, they become easy prey for predators and struggle to complete their migration.
By using crowdsourced monitoring, the fish doorbell ensures that locks open only when necessary, preventing unnecessary delays and helping maintain healthy fish populations.
The project also raises awareness about urban waterways and how human structures impact ecosystems.
A viral success story
What they're saying:
Ecologist Mark van Heukelum, who created the project, says the public response has exceeded expectations.
"I guess the combination of a good cause, a beautiful story, and just a simple idea generates all this attention," he said.
Utrecht ecologist Anna Nijs noted that many viewers find the experience calming and enjoy the sense of participation.
"We get a lot of fan mail from people who think it’s slow TV and they find it relaxing," she said. "Besides, they appreciate that they can actually do something to help."
What's next:
The fish doorbell is expected to run annually during the spring migration season, continuing to engage and educate viewers while aiding local wildlife.
As more cities explore ways to balance urban development with nature conservation, Utrecht’s fish doorbell could inspire similar projects around the world.
The Source: This story was reported from Los Angeles. It is based on information from The Associated Press, which first covered Utrecht’s fish doorbell project and its impact on wildlife conservation.