Maple syrup is one of Canada’s most iconic sweet treats, loved for its unique flavour and natural origin. However,...
Migratory bird sanctuaries in Canada: Bird watching
Canada has several migratory bird sanctuaries. Scattered across the country, these territories support different species of birds, most of which are threatened with extinction. In this article, we will tell you about the most famous sanctuaries in the country. Those where there is a large population and rare specimens. Let's go!
The importance of bird sanctuaries
There was a time when birds were hunted continuously in Canada. That was over a century ago. Because of this intensive hunting, a large number of bird populations were decimated. This prompted the government to take action.
To save the remaining bird populations, hunting was banned. Hunters were no longer allowed to open fire on the poor creatures. Failure to do so would result in severe penalties.
It is clear that the implementation of this measure has borne fruit. Since the ban on hunting, the number of bird populations killed annually has dropped dramatically.
However, the fight is not over. Far from it. While more and more organizations are looking into the case of migratory birds, several threats still loom. Indeed, there are today different types of activities that undermine the birds' way of life.
These include the destruction of wetlands and the invasion of forests. Because of these factors, thenatural habitat migratory birds are under threat. Every year, thousands of them die.
But then? How does Canada deal with this situation? By what means does the country protect migratory birds? In fact, like many countries, Canada has several methods to ensure the protection of birds. Among these, the establishment of protected territories, and the creation of a better environment to allow birds to develop fully.
Indeed, the development of migratory bird sanctuaries is an effective way to protect endangered species. Thanks to these territories, a large number of bird populations manage to survive as best they can.
Good to know: Canada currently has 98 migratory bird sanctuaries. Here are the most famous of them.
Philipsburg Area Bird Sanctuary
The municipality of Saint-Armand is home to one of the most beautiful bird-watching sites in Canada. The Philipsburg Bird Sanctuary, famous for its many species, is one of them.
This protected area is located on Route 133 between the small village of Philipsburg and Saint-Armand. Covering more than 500 hectares, it is a very popular place because it contains several species of rare birds.
Indeed, this migratory bird sanctuary contains several populations. Most of them are birds threatened with extinction, the place is considered a territory with high value. By visiting it, you will be able to observe beautiful specimens that are only found in Canada.
Access to the sanctuary ofbirds Philipsburg Migratory Bird Sanctuary is via Highway 133. To get to the parking lot, simply drive south and turn around once you reach the loop near the border.
Once this is done, you will need to go along towards the north where you will find a sign reminding you to buckle up. The entrance to the parking lot is a few meters from this sign.
It is worth noting that the time of year you visit the sanctuary matters a lot. The star birds of the sanctuary vary depending on the month. For example, during the breeding season, the most active birds are the Yellow-throated Vireo, the Cerulean Warbler, the Tufted Titmouse, and the Carolina Wren.
During the holiday season, that is, the months of July and August, others take over. The birds that animate the refuge during this period are:
- The Red Cardinal
- The American Robin
- The Bluebird
- The Wren
September marks the return of the northern species. During this month, the Philipsburg sanctuary offers a completely different atmosphere. Indeed, the birds that are active during this period are adorned with different colors. Through their song and their plumage, they make the refuge even more attractive and lively.
Birds to observe at the sanctuary during the month of September are:
- The White-throated Sparrow
- The Dark-eyed Junco
- The White-crowned Sparrow
- The Rusty Blackbird
Since the color of the feathers is different during this season, identifying the species can become complicated. However, if you are a connoisseur, there is no doubt that you will be able to pick out a few specimens among the groups of birds that you will find at the sanctuary.
Terra Nova Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Located in Bonavista Bay, the sanctuary ofmigratory birds Terra-Nova has several species of birds. By visiting it, you can observe more than 30 specimens.
Although populated, the sanctuary offers very good visibility for bird watching. Thanks to this, you can discover all the species present in just one visit.
For information, here are the species of migratory birds that can be observed at the Terra-Nova sanctuary:
● Waterfowl
● Shorebirds
● Seabirds
● Canada Geese
● The Black Ducks
● Goldeneyes
● The harles
Shorebirds regularly come out of hiding and are easily observed at the sanctuary. Very active, they are used to moving along the foreshores, especially in early autumn and during the summer months.
In winter, the sanctuary is mainly animated by waterfowl. To ward off the cold, these birds take refuge in the part of the Southwest arm. A territory that allows them to live and feed while waiting for the arrival of spring.
Furthermore, the Newman Sound is also a regular at the Terra Nova Sanctuary. It lives there all year round, and has a significant population.
Port-L'Hébert Migratory Bird Sanctuary
The Port-L'Heber Migratory Bird Sanctuary is located on the southeastern shore of Nova Scotia. It is close to two other highly visited sanctuaries, the Port-Joli and Rivière-du-Sable sanctuaries.
Together, these three sanctuaries are home to more than 5,000 Canada geese. Every year, thousands of birds flock there to weather the winter and find food.
So, if you want to see Canada geese, visit the sanctuary between October and March. This is when they are most numerous and squatting on the banks.
In addition, it should be noted that during icy winters, the water in the sanctuary arm can freeze. This considerably reduces the number of birds present on the site. When the river turns to ice, the waterfowl take refuge further away. To brave the winter, they go to the Rivière-du-Sable located a few meters from the territory.
Finally, be aware that the Port-L'Hebert migratory bird sanctuary is also a resting place for black ducks. Every year, a large number of these birds go there to feed and protect themselves from the winter cold.
Note that it is also possible to discover other dabbling ducks there. Although few in number, the northern pintail and the winged teal are among the birds that come to the sanctuary when conditions are favorable.
icon
Free shipping
For orders over 99 €
icon
International Shipping
Tax and customs included
icon
Customer service 7/7
Quick response to your requests
icon
Secure payment
Safe purchase guarantee
Leave a comment
Log in to post comments