Burlington birders can flock together this weekend

Burlington birders can keep tabs on our fine feathered friends with tips coming straight from the experts.

In acknowledgment of World Migratory Bird Day tomorrow (May 13), Bird Friendly Hamilton-Burlington will have an information booth set up at Beachway Park throughout the day to answer your questions and tell you all the best spots in town to go bird-watching.

As well, you can join a guided bird walk at the beach geared toward beginner and intermediate birders.

The group will be stationed at BurlingtonGreen’s Eco-Hub headquarters at 1094 Lakeshore Rd. (the red brick building between the playground and the concession building).

According to Take Action Burlington, now is the best time for birdwatching during the annual spring migrations. Some birds are returning to the Burlington area to choose a breeding territory, while others stop over briefly to rest and refuel before continuing north. The finale comes in late May, with a few shorebirds (sandpipers, plovers) visiting us briefly on their journey to their Arctic breeding grounds.

The best time for birding is 7 to 9 a.m. each day and can be found in any greenspace, but there are hotspots around the city for better viewing (see Tourism Burlington’s birding page). Don’t have binoculars? The Burlington Public Library and City of Burlington have a free binocular lending program.

Last year Burlington was officially certified as a Bird Friendly City by Nature Canada, thanks to the bird-friendly efforts of the community, the City of Burlington, and Bird Friendly Hamilton Burlington which led the application process.

As well, tomorrow night, Brant Street Pier lights will be lit blue until 10 p.m. in recognition of World Migratory Bird Day