Beachside Birding: Exploring Brighton's Coastal Avifauna

• Posted on 8 August 2023
• By Bobbi Wright
• Posted in Birding, birdwatching, migration, migratory, Presqu'ile, summer
• 0

Birding or Bird Watching is at its best in Presqu'ile Provincial Park here in Brighton Ontario.

Summer sun casts its golden glow on the sandy shores of Presqu'ile Provincial Park. Nestled along Lake Ontario, this picturesque park becomes a haven for coastal avifauna during the summer. If you're a bird watching enthusiast or simply seeking a serene nature escape, join us on an exciting adventure as we explore the diverse and enchanting world of beachside birding in Brighton.

Presqu'ile Provincial Park: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

Presqu'ile Provincial Park is a mecca for bird lovers, and in the summer, it transforms into a bustling hub for avian activity. The park provides an ideal habitat for various bird species with its marshlands, sandy beaches, and lush forests. Each day, from migratory shorebirds to colourful warblers, brings new avian delights for eager observers.

Migratory Marvels: The Shorebirds of Summer

Presqu'ile Provincial Park witnesses an influx of migratory shorebirds starting near the end of February and peaking in March, making it a prime time for birdwatching but it doesn't stop there. Elegant Sandpipers, petite Plovers, and majestic Willets grace the sandy shores, showcasing their impressive foraging and nesting behaviors. Witnessing these winged travelers on their journey is a sight to behold and a true testament to the beauty of migration. If we are super lucky we get to see Piping Plovers nesting on our beach in Presqu'ile through July - once a frequent nester on our beaches, man kinds influence over the years degraded their nesting habitat. It's only been in the last few years with some strict rules and conservation coming into play that we've seen them back on our shores - a good sign that the park is being good stewards of the beach space they live and play on.

Winged Warblers: A Symphony of Colors

As the sun rises over the park's woodlands, the forest comes alive with warblers' vibrant songs and colours—these tiny, colourful songbirds flit among the branches, serenading the day with their melodious tunes. From the striking Blackburnian Warbler to the bright Yellow Warbler, identifying these feathered gems is both a challenge and a delight. June is the time when birds are their noisiest with singing, but 70-100 species can be found in the park through the summer months, it can just be a little more challenging to find them on a hot summers day. So pack patience with your binoculars!

Raptors and Gulls: The Coastal Predators

Presqu'ile Provincial Park is home to songbirds and boasts an array of raptors and gulls. Watch for soaring Ospreys and majestic Bald Eagles as they hunt for fish in the nearby waters. Meanwhile, noisy and opportunistic gulls add a touch of playfulness to the coastal scene, scavenging for tidbits along the shoreline. Growing up here, and spending summers on the beach meant shielding your french fries from the gulls and fending them off from your picnics! Gull Island (the most diverse water bird colony -seven species - on the Great Lakes) is off limits during their migratory and breeding season starting March 10 - September 10. But a great pair of binoculars will get you close enough to see that nesting space is at a premium. You can walk out there after Sept 10, hip waders are recommended and it is quite the experience to see the island and how its inhabitants have left the space. There are no trees for nesting so everything is at ground level to see.

Coastal Conservation: A Shared Responsibility

As we immerse ourselves in the beauty of Brighton's coastal avifauna, let's remember the importance of conservation. Presqu'ile Provincial Park is crucial in providing a haven for migratory birds and local species. As visitors, we are responsible for respecting and protecting these natural habitats for future generations.

Summer is a natural wonder in Brighton, Ontario, especially at Presqu'ile Provincial Park. From the breathtaking sight of migratory shorebirds along the sandy beaches to the vibrant colours and melodies of warblers in the woodlands, the park offers an unparalleled beachside birding experience.

So, grab your binoculars and camera, and venture into the coastal avifauna wonderland of Brighton. Join us on this journey of discovery as we cherish our feathered friends' beauty and let Presqu'ile Provincial Park's tranquility remind us of the importance of conserving these precious habitats. Happy beachside birding!