Saturday, May 11 is for the birds and Kawartha Conservation invites nature enthusiasts to land at a Kawartha Lakes conservation area to mark World Migratory Bird Day.
The conservation authority is hosting a variety of activities to mark the day at Ken Reid Conservation Area, which is located four kilometres north of Lindsay and accessible via 277 Kenrei (Park) Road, from the north end of Angeline Street or off Highway 35.
The theme for this year’s World Migratory Bird Day event revolves around insects and highlights the “pivotal” role insects play in the migration and survival of birds, Kawartha Conservation noted in a media release.
By providing a variety of educational and engaging activities, the conservation authority hopes the day’s events deepen participants’ connection with the natural world.
Visitors can listen to the birds sing at sunrise, take part in a bird count, identify trees, learn about climate change, and more.
“These walks, events, and activities are perfect for anyone interested in learning more about the birds that call Ken Reid Conservation Area home and those that are migratory to the area,” said Rob Stavinga, watershed resources technician.
All activities require advance registration at calendar.kawarthaconservation.com. While the “Dawn Chorus” and “How To Use The eBird App” activities are free, all others cost $12 for adults ($6 for children 12 and under) plus tax.
Below is the agenda for the day.
Dawn Chorus: Early Bird Gets the Worm (5:30 to 6:30 a.m.)
Join Stavinga for an exploration of the dawn chorus, where the early bird truly gets the worm. Participants will uncover the mysteries behind why birds sing at dawn and how this behaviour shapes their survival and influences the surrounding ecosystem. Meet at the Lakeview area (old beach) and bring a chair.
Winged Wonders: Bird Identification Adventure (7:30 to 8:30 a.m.)
This hike offers an opportunity for birdwatchers of all levels to explore and identify the array of bird species inhabiting the landscapes of the conservation area. Meet at the Lakeview parking lot (old beach area) and bring binoculars. Sessions run from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The History of Ken Reid Conservation Area (9 to 10 a.m.)
This is a guided hike through key points of interest, unravelling the history embedded within the landscape. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with the natural environment, observe native flora and fauna, and learn about ongoing conservation efforts aimed at preserving the area’s ecological diversity. Meet at the Lakeview parking lot (old beach area).
How To Use The eBird App (9:30 to 10 a.m.)
Join Kawartha Conservation member Jenna Stephens for a 30-minute tutorial on the eBird app. Participants will learn to navigate the app’s features, from logging sightings to contributing data to scientific research. Meet on the front lawn of the administrative building. There are sessions at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Guided Sound Exploration Hike with Pinnguaq Association (10 to 11 a.m.)
Caitie Blumsom of Pinnguaq Association will lead participants (equipped with iPads provided by Pinnguaq) through the trails while using the Merlin app to identify various bird songs encountered along the way, providing an interactive and educational exploration of the natural soundscape. Afterwards, participants will engage in a pencil-to-paper sound mapping activity, capturing the unique sounds heard during the hike. Notebooks and pencils will be provided. Meet at the main parking lot (dog park parking lot).
Into the Canopy: A Tree Identification Adventure (10:30 to 11:30 a.m.)
Through “an immersive experience,” experienced guides will provide participants with insights into the ecological importance of trees and their role in supporting wildlife habitats. Meet at the covered pavilion located by the main parking lot (dog park parking lot).
Birding Essentials: Learn How to Do a ‘Point Count’ (11 a.m. to noon)
A knowledgeable guide will share essential skills of conducting point counts for monitoring bird populations. Participants will learn to identify bird species by their distinctive calls and behaviours, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts. According to Kawartha Conservation, the experience offers not only educational insights, but also a deeper appreciation for the diverse avian life thriving within the conservation area. Meet at the Lakeview parking lot (old beach area).
Blooms & Beauty: Spring Ephemeral Identification Hike (noon to 1 p.m.)
Led by experienced guides, this adventure offers participants an opportunity to discover the beauty and significance of spring ephemeral wildflowers. As participants travel through the trails, they will learn to identify blooms. Meet at the main parking lot (dog park parking lot).
Wonders of Wetlands (12:30 to 1:30 p.m.)
In another immersive experience, knowledgeable guides will share insights into wetland ecology, highlighting the importance of these dynamic ecosystems in filtering water, mitigating floods, and providing essential habitat for wildlife, Kawartha Conservation noted. Meet at the Lakeview parking lot (old beach area).
How To Use The eBird App (1 to 1:30 p.m)
Join Kawartha Conservation member Jenna Stephens for a 30-minute tutorial on the eBird app. Participants will learn to navigate the app’s features, from logging sightings to contributing data to scientific research. Meet on the front lawn of the administrative building. There are sessions at 9:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Winged Wonders: Bird Identification Adventure (1:30 to 2:30 p.m.)
This hike offers an opportunity for birdwatchers of all levels to explore and identify the array of bird species inhabiting the landscapes of the conservation area. Meet at the Lakeview parking lot (old beach area) and bring binoculars. Sessions run from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Exploring Climate Change Impacts (2 to 3 p.m.)
Led by Colleen Cathcart, forestry and landowner services technician, this experience invites participants to witness firsthand the effects of climate change on local ecosystems and biodiversity. Those who take part will discover how rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and other environmental shifts are reshaping the landscape. Meet at the main parking lot (dog park parking lot).
“Each activity is designed to offer unique insights and engaging experiences for nature lovers of all ages,” said Carolyn Snider, administration support for conservation programs. “We’re providing a platform where the community can actively engage with and contribute to conservation efforts. Join us to celebrate the beauty and necessity of migratory birds and their habitats.”
Ken Reid Conservation Area spans 110 hectares (272 acres), safeguarding diverse landscapes such as forests, meadows, and the provincially significant McLaren’s Creek Wetland. It boasts a network of 12 interconnected trails that stretch close to 12 kilometres, including two popular boardwalks.
There are numerous facilities at Ken Reid, including a playground, picnic areas, a group camping site, an off-leash area for dogs, an accessible platform for observing wetlands, and “The Talking Forest, 9-hole Nature’s Edge Disc Golf Course” and more.
