In a cozy cedar shake building overlooking the Bay of Fundy, Jim Wilson finds joy in birdwatching. As a founding member of the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory, established in 1995 to track seabird migration, Wilson’s hobby has evolved into a thrilling pastime.
During peak migration seasons, up to 8,000 birds per hour soar past the observatory northward at an average speed of 60 kilometers per hour. The meticulous counting process aims to provide valuable scientific data for the Canadian Wildlife Service to analyze seabird and sea duck populations, migration trends, and environmental impacts.
Celebrating 30 years of monitoring efforts, the Saint John Naturalists Club has observed over a million birds, with approximately 114 bird species passing by, including the prevalent black scoter and surf scoter. Using a systematic four-hour sampling method, volunteers count birds in 15-minute intervals, allowing for a comprehensive view of the migration flow through the Bay of Fundy.
Julie Bauer, a dedicated volunteer turned program co-ordinator, emphasizes the importance of birds as bioindicator species. These creatures signal environmental changes, especially in the Arctic where they breed. The observatory’s strategic location enables the observation of the entire seabird and sea duck migration route, providing crucial insights into habitat shifts and population variations.
The idea for the observatory sprang from a moment of reflection while watching birds overhead and contemplating the potential impact of an oil spill on the passing flocks. This concern led to the inception of the Point Lepreau Bird Observatory, driven by Wilson and his friend’s environmental consciousness.
With an aging volunteer base, the Saint John Naturalists Club welcomes new members to join their conservation efforts and community initiatives. New volunteers are paired with experienced bird counters during workshops, emphasizing the rewarding experience of contributing to scientific research and connecting with like-minded individuals during the awe-inspiring spring migration spectacle.