30 Best Birding Spots in Canada: The Ultimate Guide!

There are many great birding spots in Canada, but these are the best of the best. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned birder, these locations will provide hours of enjoyment.

From prairies to the boreal forest, each spot is unique and contains something special for birdwatchers. Let’s take a look at the best birding spots in Canada below.

Best Birding Spots in Canada

Birding in Canada

Canada is home to 740 species of birds, making it one of the most bird-rich countries in the world. The country’s diverse geography and environment provide an ideal habitat for a great variety of bird species. In addition to its abundant wildlife, Canada has some of the best birding opportunities in the world.

There are dozens of different birding areas across Canada, each with its own unique features and attractions. Many are large expanses of open countryside, while others are situated along lakes or in forested areas.

Some offer excellent views of waterbirds such as ducks and geese, while others feature rare or endangered species. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer, when the birding is busiest. Winter can be a bit dull, but there are still some good areas to visit.

Birding Season in Canada

There are many different types of birds in Canada, including waterfowl, raptors, songbirds, and plovers. The best time to bird in Canada is during the breeding season, which generally runs from March to September.

However, there are other times of year when you can see interesting birds. For example, you can see hawks and eagles during migration season in late spring and summer, and you can find a variety of songbirds in early fall.

Canada’s National Bird

In 2016, Canadian Geographic magazine announced that the gray jay would be Canada’s national bird. The choice was based on the bird’s popularity and its role in Canadian culture.

Best Birding Spots in Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island offers a wealth of birding opportunities, with both coastal and inland habitats. The best time to visit for birders is from May to October, when the weather is generally warm and sunny.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of birds, including seabirds, shorebirds, waterfowl, raptors (eagles, vultures, hawks), and songbirds. Some of the best spots for birding on Prince Edward Island are listed below. (Species count: eBird)

East Point (189 Species)

Prince Edward Island is a great place to bird, with numerous well-known spots. East Point is one of the most popular sites on the island, and offers some excellent birding opportunities. The point is located on the northeast coast of the island, and offers excellent views of both coastal waters and inland wetlands.

Birders can expect to see a variety of waterfowl including ducks, geese, coots, and sandpipers. Numerous raptors are also common sight at East Point, including Snowy Owls, Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and Harriers.

Prince Edward Island National Park, Greenwich (175 Species)

Prince Edward Island National Park is one of the most popular birding spots on the island. The park has over 1,000 hectares of land and includes a variety of habitats including coastal marshes, woodlands, and ponds.

This area is home to 175 species of rare and endangered birds, as well as more common species. Some of the highlights of the park include the Downy Woodpecker, Black-capped Chickadee, Carolina Wren, and Canada Warbler.

Prince Edward Island National Park, Long Pond (155 Species)

The Prince Edward Island National park in the Long Pond area offers birders 155 species of birds. The most common are common Blue Jays, American Goldfinches, House Sparrows and Chickadees.

Others include the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and the Downy Woodpecker. The Prince Edward Island National Park is an excellent place to explore for those interested in birding.

Best Birding Spots in Manitoba

There are a number of great birding spots in Manitoba, but the best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is warm and sunny. The following are some of the best places to bird in Manitoba are listed below.

Oak Hammock Marsh (284 Species)

Oak Hammock Marsh is a great birding spot in Manitoba, home to 284 different species of birds! This nature reserve is a great place to see many different types of waterfowl, including migratory ducks and geese.

If you’re looking for something a little more specialized, the marsh is also home to several varieties of raptors, such as bald eagles and osprey.The marsh is easily accessible from various points in Manitoba, so it’s perfect for anyone interested in seeing some amazing wildlife!

Delta Marsh Bird Observatory (262 Species)

Delta Marsh Bird Observatory is a must-see spot for birdwatchers in Manitoba. This 262-species bird observatory is located just outside Winnipeg. The Delta Marsh has a variety of habitats, including salt marshes, fresh water marshes, and woodlands.

The observatory provides an ideal environment for birding and offers excellent opportunities to see many species not usually seen in Manitoba. Birders can enjoy viewing migratory birds such as hawks, ducks, geese, and shorebirds during their annual migration or look for resident birds such as blue jays, vireos and kingfishers.

St. Ambroise Provincial Park (257 Species)

When it comes to birding, there’s no better place to be than Manitoba. From the prairies and wetlands of the east to the boreal forests and tundra of the west, this province has it all – 257 species in all! And if you’re looking for a specific type of bird or habitat, Manitoba has plenty to offer as well. So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced birder, we’ve put together a list of some of our favorite spots in Manitoba for birding.

St. Ambroise Provincial Park is undoubtedly one of Manitoba’s most popular birding sites. With 257 species found here, it’s certain to have something for everyone – from common birds like red-winged blackbirds and American robins to uncommon ones like ovenbird and hairy woodpecker.

Best Birding Spots in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan has over 400 bird species, making it one of the most diverse provinces in Canada. Here are three great spots for birdwatching in Saskatchewan.

Wascana Lake (253 Species)

Wascana Lake is a massive man-made reservoir located in southeastern Saskatchewan. The lake provides habitat for 253 different species of birds, making it one of the most bird-rich sites in the province. A variety of habitats can be found on and around the lake, including open water, marshes, islands, and creeks.

The best times to visit Wascana Lake are during spring and autumn, when many migrating birds are in the area. Some of the more common species you may see include ducks, geese, swans, cormorants, hawks, pelicans and ibises. There are also a number of resident species, including American goldfinches, and bluebirds.

Wascana Marsh (251 Species)

Wascana Marsh is one of the most diverse birding spots in Saskatchewan. It is home to 251 species of birds, including many internationally endangered and rare species. The marsh is located in Regina, just east of the city center.

The best time to visit the marsh is during migration season, which runs from early May to late September. However, any time of year can be enjoyable if you’re willing to wander around and explore its seemingly infinite variety of habitats.

Some tips for birding Wascana Marsh:
-Start by exploring its expansive wetlands, where you’ll likely see Canada geese, mallards, American black ducks and other waterfowl.
-Then head up into the tall grass prairies for some great views of warblers like yellow-rumped warblers and American redstarts.

Grasslands National Park (200 Species)

The Grasslands National Park in Saskatchewan is home to over 200 species of birds, making it a great place to bird watch. Some of the most common birds you’ll see are hawks, eagles, ospreys and ravens.

There are also many songbirds, including blue jays and mockingbirds. The park is open year-round and has several trails that allow you to explore its many nooks and crannies.

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Best Birding Spots in British Columbia

The Canadian province of British Columbia is home to 543 species of birds, making it one of the most bird-rich regions in North America. This diverse landscape offers plenty of opportunities to spot some of North America’s best-known and rare birds. Here are three awesome spots for birders in British Columbia.

Rocky Point Bird Observatory (285 Species)

Rocky Point Bird Observatory is one of the most popular birding spots in British Columbia. The 285 species recorded here make it an excellent spot for birders of all levels of experience.

Some of the more common birds seen here include raptors, herons, egrets, and ducks. The observatory is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers, and porcupines.

Esquimalt Lagoon National Bird Sanctuary (237 Species)

The Esquimalt Lagoon National Bird Sanctuary is a stunning 238-square-kilometer area of protected land on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

The sanctuary provides habitat for a wide variety of birds, including many species that are not found anywhere else in Canada. A visit to the sanctuary is an excellent way to see some of the most spectacular wildlife in BC.

Martindale Flats (231 Species)

Martindale Flats is a great place to bird and offers 231 species of birds! The flats are open year-round and offer a wide variety of habitats, from wetlands to salt marshes.

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the birds are nesting. There are several trails that wind through the area, making it easy to find your way around.

Best Birding Spots in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia is a paradise for birders! 473 different species can be seen in the province, making it one of the most diverse places in North America for bird watching. There are plenty of opportunities to spot birds all year round, except for winter, when many species migrate.

The best time to go birding is usually early morning or late afternoon, when the light is perfect and there’s less competition from other wildlife. Many parks and reserves have designated areas where you can hike or explore, and look for signs that indicate which birds you might see.

Seal Island (337 Species)

Seal Island is a paradise for birders, with 337 species of birds recorded so far. The island’s habitat consists of coastal salt marshes and mudflats, which are perfect nesting grounds for many waterbirds.

You can find common terns, cuckoos, tanagers, blue jays, goldfinches, red-breasted merganser on the island. Other interesting birds you may spot include the red-necked phalarope, common goldeneyes, and peregrine falcons.

Bon Portage Island (300 Species)

Bon Portage Island is a key stop for birders in Nova Scotia. Located off the eastern coast close to Cape Sable Island, the island has 300 species of birds, making it a prime location for birdwatchers.

Some of the more popular species to spot on Bon Portage Island include Black-throated green warblers, Red-breasted mergansers, Atlantic puffins and American black ducks. Other notable birds to watch out for on Bon Portage Island include Ospreys, Bald Eagles, and Peregrine Falcons.

Hartlen Point Shoreline (299 Species)

Hartlen Point is a great spot for birding in Nova Scotia. There are 299 species of birds that can be spotted here, making it one of the most diverse birding spots in the province. Hartlen Point is located on the 1.8-mile out-and-back trail near Eastern Passage, and has a wide variety of habitats, including salt marshes, freshwater marshes, and coastal scrub.

This makes it an ideal spot for birdwatchers looking to see a wide range of species. The best time to visit Hartlen Point is during spring and summer when the birds are most active.

Best Birding Spots in Ontario

Ontario is a province in Canada that has a vast array of birding opportunities. There are 558 species of birds that can be seen in the province, making it one of the most diverse places in North America for bird watching.

The best time to visit is during the months of May through October, when many migratory birds are in the province. Some of Ontario’s most well-known birding spots include Bruce Peninsula National Park, Algonquin Park, and Parry Sound Provincial Park.

Point Pelee National Park (378 Species)

Point Pelee National Park is one of the most diverse birding spots in North America. The 378 species of birds that have been documented there make it a must-visit for birders.

Some of the more well-known bird species you may see at Point Pelee include the American woodcock, red-shouldered hawk, and great blue heron. There are many trails throughout the park that offer excellent opportunities to view these and other birds in their natural habitats.

Rondeau Provincial Park (338 Species)

Ontario is home to 338 different species of birds, making it one of the most bird-rich provinces in Canada. Rondeau Provincial Park is the second oldest provincial park in Ontario, established in 1894, and contains an abundance of natural habitats, including wetlands, woodlands and meadows.

The park is also home to a wide variety of birding opportunities, such as viewing hawks and osprey in the open habitat or watching warblers at various points along the trails.

Presqu’ile Provincial Park (326 Species)

Presqu’ile Provincial Park is a hotspot for birders in Ontario. The park has 326 species of birds, making it one of the most diverse provincial parks in the province. The best time to visit Presqu’ile Provincial Park is during spring and fall, when the birds are migrating.

Other great times to bird the park are during winter when there is a good amount of wildlife activity, and during summer when there are many species that come to feed on the insects present.

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Best Birding Spots in Quebec

Quebec is a province in Canada with a rich birding history. There are many great places to spot birds in Quebec, and each region has its own unique attractions. Here are three of the best birding spots in the province.

RNF Du Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area (315 Species)

The RNF Du Cap Tourmente National Wildlife Area is a popular spot for birding in Quebec. The 315 species of birds that can be seen here are a testament to the area’s biodiversity.

Some of the more commonly seen birds include loons, ducks, geese, ospreys, and hawks. There are also many rare or uncommon species that can be found here, such as the snowy owl and the mute swan.

Tadoussac Bird Observatory (271 Species)

The Tadoussac Bird Observatory is a great spot for birding in Quebec. 271 different species have been spotted at the observatory, making it a great place to start your explorations of the province’s wildlife.

The observatory is located just south of Tadoussac, and offers visitors plenty of opportunities to see a variety of birds including loons, eagles, hawks and songbirds.

Pointe de Maizerets (266 Species)

Birds can be found in many places, but a place where they are particularly abundant is Pointe de Maizerets, located in the eastern part of Quebec.

The 266 species that have been recorded at this spot include North American birds as well as Eurasian and African migrants. The location is especially attractive to birders because of its proximity to the Saint Lawrence River and the Great Lakes.

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Best Birding Spots in Alberta

Alberta is one of the best places in North America to be a birder. With 439 species of birds that can be found here, birding in Alberta is an incredibly diverse and rewarding experience. The province has a variety of habitats including wetlands, prairies, and forests.

There are many different routes you can take to see the various species of birds in Alberta, from long-distance walks to closer-to-home birdwatching opportunities. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned birder, there’s something for everyone in Alberta’s birding community.

Calgary-Inglewood Bird Sanctuary (280 Species)

The Inglewood Bird Sanctuary in Calgary is a great spot for birding. It’s home to 280 species of birds, making it one of the most diverse sanctuaries in Alberta.

The sanctuary features a variety of habitats including meadows, wetlands, and forest. There are plenty of trails to explore, making it an easy spot for beginners and experts alike.

Beaverhill Bird Observatory (252 Species)

The Beaverhill Bird Observatory is a world-renowned birding spot in Alberta. The 252 species of birds that can be seen at the observatory make it an excellent destination for bird enthusiasts of all levels of experience.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including viewing birds from the observation deck or hiking and biking trails that wind through the property.

Elk Island National Park (247 Species)

Alberta’s Elk Island National Park is a hotspot for bird enthusiasts. It has 247 species of bird, making it one of the most diverse parks in North America. Among the most common birds to be seen in the park are turkey vultures, bald eagles, blue Herons, and American Goldfinches.

There are also plenty of songbirds to enjoy such as warblers, thrushes, and cedar waxwings. The best time to visit the park is from May to October, when the birds are in full blossom.

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Best Birding Spots in New Brunswick

New Brunswick is a great place to bird. There are 438 species of birds that can be found in the province, making it one of the most bird-rich provinces in Canada. Some of the most popular birding spots in New Brunswick include:

Grand Manan–Castalia Marsh (257 Species)

Grand Manan is a remote island off the coast of New Brunswick that is home to 257 bird species, making it one of the most diverse spots in North America for birds. Castalia Marsh located in the bay of Fundy offers visitors an opportunity to see some of the rarest and most interesting wildlife in North America.

The marsh is home to black-capped chickadees, tufted titmice, red-bellied woodpeckers, and many other species not found anywhere else on Earth.

Kent Island (248 Species)

The Kent Island area of New Brunswick is a prime location for birding. The 248 species of birds that can be found in the area make it a great spot for anyone interested in nature.

The island has a variety of habitats, including coastal marshes and woodlands, which gives birders plenty of opportunity to see different types of birds. There are also many trails throughout the island that make it easy to explore on foot.

Sackville Waterfowl Park (216 Species)

When it comes to birdwatching in New Brunswick, there is no better spot than Sackville Waterfowl Park. The park has a total of 216 different species of birds that you can see while on your walks or hikes. You can also see a variety of waterfowl, including American wigeon, mallard duck, Canada goose, and redhead duck.

This park is perfect for beginners as well as experienced birdwatchers since there are plenty of trails to explore and viewing spots that will give you amazing views of the wildlife.

Best Birding Spots in Newfoundland and Labrador

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador is home to 424 species of birds, making it one of the most bird-rich provinces in Canada. The vast wildernesses of the island provide a habitat for many rare and endangered species, while the coastal areas provide habitats for more common birds.

Birders can find many different kinds of birds in Newfoundland and Labrador, from shorebirds such as sandpipers and plovers to songbirds like warblers and thrushes.

Cape Race (212 Species)

Among the many attractions in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador is Cape Race. This location is home to 212 bird species, making it a prime spot for birders. Some of the more common birds that can be found at Cape Race include seagulls, eider ducks, black-legged kittiwakes, and cormorants.

Other interesting birds that can be spotted here include puffins, northern gannets, and pelicans. Visitors can also enjoy watching seals swimming or resting on the rocks near the shoreline.

Cape Spear (211 Species)

If you’re looking for a place to see some of the most amazing birds in North America, look no further than Cape Spear. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to 211 different species of birds, making it one of the most accessible birding spots in all of Newfoundland and Labrador. Whether you’re interested in watching seabirds or raptors, Cape Spear has something for everyone.

In addition to its incredible biodiversity, the area is also known for its pristine environment and stunning views. So if you’re looking to get out and enjoy some nature while also soaking up some culture, make sure to check out Cape Spear!

Trepassey, Avalon Peninsula (199 Species)

Avalon Peninsula is a birding hotspot in Newfoundland and Labrador. This area has 199 different species of birds, making it an excellent spot for birdwatchers.

There are many different habitats on the peninsula, including salt marshes, bogs, and forests. The best time to visit is during the spring and fall, when many migratory birds are in the area.

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