We had over 50 people attend our virtual meeting with guest speaker Jeremy Bensette.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Perfect geography for migration since the landscape reaches into Lake Erie;
- Many migratory birds prefer to follow coastlines;
- Great Lakes make a southward “funnel” shape;
- Southernmost point in mainland Canada;
- 20 square kilometres of protected naturalist habitat. A mix of marsh, forest, savannah and beach;
- Within Canada’s rare Carolinian Zone;
- First Nations have been connected to this land and its natural features for over 6,000 years. Chippewa people of the Caldwell First Nature;
- Point Pelee National Park was established in 1918;
- 260+ migrant species visit the area each year (230 are annual regulars);
- Over 100 breeding bird species in this area;
- Bird alerts keep birders informed of rarities – there are also lists within the Visitors Center;
- Waterfowl tend to visit early. Late April through May – peak songbird season;
- Famous for its migrant warblers such as Ovenbird, Black-throated Blue Warbler and Blackburian Warbler. It is possible to see 30+ warbler species;
- The most common…Yellow Warbler;
- Migration happens twice a year – spring and fall. Spring is quite busy with birders, so consider making your travel plans for the fall instead! Fall is a longer season versus spring.
Our thanks to Jeremy for sharing his knowledge!
Map below is from Jeremy’s presentation.
