A partnership for the birds!

By Mike Bohms

Parks Canada and the Central Algoma Land Trust have been working together to share the love of birding with the Fort St. Joseph community. In 2025, that relationship was formalized in a partnering agreement, and we plan to continue delivering public birding events for upcoming years.

The Central Algoma Land Trust began operations in 2001 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and conservation of land and water in the Central Algoma region. Beyond protecting land, the organization partners with landowners, governments, schools, and other organizations to deliver projects and education programs that promote stewardship, including sustainable development, sound land and water management, invasive-species control, and low-impact recreation.

Parks Canada partners with Central Algoma Land Trust to present two special birding events each year at Fort St. Joseph. These events are open to everyone, from experienced birders to those looking to try out the hobby for the first time.  As a top-tier birding location in Algoma District, Fort St. Joseph (also recognized by Environment and Climate Change Canada as the St. Joseph Island Migratory Bird Sanctuary) provides a unique site to educate the public on the wonders of bird migration and the protection of avian species at risk in their natural environment.

On the second Saturday in May, visitors can join the Central Algoma Land Trust and Parks Canada for World Migratory Bird Day—an annual, global event that shines a spotlight on migratory birds and the habitats they depend on. Some enthusiastic participants rise before dawn to spot as many species as possible as birds pass through the region or settle in for the summer. In 2025 alone, birders identified an impressive 122 species at Fort St. Joseph, including memorable sightings of a Eurasian Tree Sparrow, Barred Owls, Trumpeter Swans, a Rough‑legged Hawk, and an array of colourful warblers.

The birding fun continues in the fall on the second Saturday in October with Fall Migratory Bird Day. Autumn migration unfolds at a slower pace, offering unique opportunities to spot birds in non‑breeding plumage or witness raptors “kettling” as they prepare to cross the water on their journey south. Ducks, raptors, and songbirds are all part of the seasonal spectacle.

We would love for you to join us at one of these special birding events at Fort St. Joseph!

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