There are so many opportunities to see rare southern warm climate birds in Chatham-Kent! Among the most common finds are the Canada Goose, Mute Swan, Wood Duck, Rock Pigeon and Mourning Dove. There are also rarer sightings that make for a very memorable experience!
Birding Hot Spots
Rondeau Provincial Park's forested swamp are among the favoured spots with birders of all levels. Here, the park attracts the endangered Prothonotary Warbler that breeds at the park. In any given year, more than 275 species are sighted at Rondeau. The
Friends of Rondeau is a very active association and can assist with many of your birding questions or about Rondeau in general. Further south, birders can view impressive numbers of waterfowl and wrens that prefer the inland marshes and shallow creeks at
Wheatley Provincial Park. Here, birders may also spot the uncommon Little Blue Heron or the Mississippi Kite.
Provincial Park Birding Events*
Festival of Flight - Rondeau Provincial Park, annually in May (this year, May 7-22)
Norm Chesterfield Birding Day - Wheatley, annually in May (postponed in 2022)
St. Clair National Wildlife offers up-close views and room to leisurely explore the tranquil surroundings. As many as 20,000 geese, ducks and swans blanket the 242-hectare wetlands near the small French community of Pain Court. The best views are from atop the observation tower or along the scenic trail.
*Dates may change due to Covid-19. Visit their websites for details.
Blenheim Lagoons
Around 166 species on average can be found at the lagoons on "Lagoon Road" located on the north side of Talbot trail. Parking is on the lagoon side of this dirt road. Permits and a lock box code are required.
An annual lagoon permit can be obtained by filling out the application, and emailing it to ckinfo@chatham-kent.ca; or by attending any Municipal Office.
