Bird enthusiasts from the world over are expected to flock to Hillman Marsh in May, along with thousands of migrating birds.
This year, the Shorebird Celebration is May 1 to May 20, six days a week. Experts from the Ontario Field Ornithologists will be at the Shorebird Viewing Shelter from 3pm to 5pm Tuesday through to Sunday each week throughout the celebration. Volunteers from the Holiday Beach Migration Observatory will also band birds at Hillman Marsh on May 12 and 13.
"Combined with Point Pelee National Park's Festival of Birds and the 100th anniversary of the park, we're expecting a great turnout," says Danielle Breault Stuebing from the Essex Region Conservation Authority. "The viewing opportunities in the Pelee/Hillman region during the spring migration are unparalleled. We don't always realize how lucky we are to have this world-class event in our own backyard."
The shorebird habitat at Hillman Marsh is unique in North America. Mudflats provide nutrition and a resting area for many species.
During the late winter, water levels in the habitat are reduced to create the mudflats. In the summer, wild rice is grown and harvested in the fall.
"The remaining stubble encourages organisms to proliferate and provides for the shore and water birds each spring," says Dave Milsom of the OFO. "The birds are often very close to the shoreline which makes for exceptional viewing. A large bird blind is open for visitors to photograph and study the birds."
The fee is $6 for each vehicle, and special spring birding passes are available.
