Spring is just around the corner and nature lovers will be watching for the return of our feathered friends. Muskoka Tourism, in collaboration with all six communities in the region, including Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Muskoka Lakes, Bracebridge, Georgian Bay, and Lake of Bays has announced the launch of its guided birding event series and campaign: ‘Birding in Muskoka: Nature Takes Flight’.
The program runs from April 12, 2025, to May 10, 2025, and birdwatchers of all levels can participate in 20 guided birding experiences led by expert naturalists. Local birding expert Dale Wenger will lead this new initiative, offering visitors the chance to explore Muskoka’s diverse ecosystems and encounter a wide variety of bird species.
“Muskoka is an incredible destination for birding, with its mix of forests, wetlands, and diverse landscapes providing a habitat for countless species,” says Wenger. “Spring is the perfect time to experience the magic of migration, and we’re excited to help visitors connect with nature in a meaningful way.”
Each event is priced at $10 per person and takes place across the region, with unique topics and bird species expected depending on the location. The Tourism in Muskoka committee says spring is a key period in encouraging tourism while celebrating the natural beauty of the region.
“Birding is a fantastic way to explore the outdoors, connect with nature, and experience Muskoka in a whole new way,” says Val Hamilton, Executive Director of Muskoka Tourism. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning in nature or hoping to catch a glimpse of rare migratory birds, ‘Nature Takes Flight’ has something for everyone.”
A news release says that the campaign will primarily target the Greater Toronto Area, with the goal of increasing overnight visitation to Muskoka and showcasing its unique outdoor experiences. Visitors are encouraged to bring binoculars, dress for the weather, and prepare to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of Muskoka’s outdoors.
For more information visit Muskoka Tourism’s website.
- April 12:Hutcheson Beach, Huntsville – “Birdability: Accessible Birding” 8:30am – 11:00am
- April 12:Echo Valley Trails, Lake of Bays – “What Sings in the Night” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
- April 13: Hunters Bay Trail, Huntsville – “Learning Backyard Birds” 8:00am – 11:00 am
- April 19: Gravenhurst Wharf and Penninsula Trail (Meet at the Discovery Center) Gravenhurst – “Birdwatching Basics” 7:30am – 10:00am
- April 19:Echo Valley Trails (Echo Hills Rd, Dwight) Lake of Bays – “What Sings at Night?” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
- April 20: Gravenhurst Wharf and Peninsula Trail (Meet at Discovery Center), Gravenhurst – “Birdwatching Basics” 7:30am – 10:00am
- April 20: Kahshe Barrens Trail, Gravenhurst – “Spring Migrants on a Barren Landscape” 12:00pm – 2:30pm
- April 26: Kahshe Barrens Trail, Gravenhurst – “Spring Migrants on a Barren Landscape” 7:30am – 10:00am
- April 26: Queen Elizabeth II Wetlands PP, Gravenhurst “Early Spring Warblers” 3:00pm – 6:00pm
- April 27: Dyer Memorial, Huntsville “Birds & History” 8:00am – 10:00am
- April 27: Coopers Falls Trail, Gravenhurst “Birdwatching Basics” 3:00pm – 6:00pm
- May 3: Kerr Park, Bracebridge “A Birder Classic” 6:00am – 10:00am
- May 3: Torrance Barrens, Muskoka Lakes “Whip-Poor-Will and Woodcocks” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
- May 4: Bracebridge Resource Management Centre, Bracebridge “Birds of a Pine Forest” 6:00am – 9:00am
- May 4: Limberlost Forest, Lake of Bays “Wonders of Warblers” 6:30am – 9:30am
- May 10: Schoolhouse Trail, Georgian Bay “Georgian Bay without the Bay” 6:30am – 9:00am
- May 10:Hunters Bay Trail, Huntsville “A Song in the Air” 6:00am – 9:00am
- May 10:Fairy Vista Trail, Huntsville “Wonders of Woodcocks” 5:30pm – 8:30pm
- May 11: Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville “A Song is in the Air” 6:30am – 9:30am
- May 11: Torrance Barrens, Muskoka Lakes “Whip-poor-wills and Woodcocks“5:30pm – 9:00pm
