The Essex Region Conservation Authority is preparing for this year's Shorebird Celebration by reducing water levels at Hillman Marsh.
The shorebird habitat in Hillman Marsh is unique in North America, and every year, thousands of bird enthusiasts come out to watch the birds arrive.
The managed wetland at Hillman Marsh includes mudflats to provide birds with nutrition and a resting area during their migration. The birds are often close to the shoreline, providing exceptional viewing, but a large bird blind is open for visitors to photograph and study migratory birds.
"Pumping water into the shorebird cell to ensure we can create the ideal feeding and resting habitat is key," said Director of Conservation Services, Kevin Money. "Over the winter, significant investment was made, and a new large pipe was trenched to bring water to the shorebird cell from a deeper location in the main marsh."
Efforts to eradicate the invasive Hydrilla in Hillman's west cell prevented ERCA from using that water source, and with low lake levels, existing ditches were dry.
The Shorebird Celebration runs from May 1 to May 21, during prime migration.
On Wednesdays and Saturdays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., volunteers with the Ontario Field Ornithologists will help guests identify the different birds.
Admission is $10 per vehicle and will be collected through HonkMobile using a QR code and your smartphone.
"Combined with Point Pelee National Park's Festival of Birds, the birding opportunities in the region during spring migration are unparalleled," said Director of Communications and Outreach Services Danielle Breault Stuebing. "Visitors travel here from around the world, but stay-cationers and local outdoor enthusiasts can also celebrate these world-class natural places right in our own backyard."
