Trip : Point Pelee National Park - April 24th (Sunday).
Leader : Ellen Smout
Trip Description: Meet at Marsh Boardwalk parking lot in Point Pelee National Park at 7:30 am. We will bird the marsh boardwalk, North-West Beach, Visitor Centre area, & Tip. Entry fee to the Park.
Who should come? Field trips are for OFO members One guest is allowed if participant requires assistance during the trip. New birders and photographers are welcome.
Type of trip: Spring birds, photography.
Location and Directions: Pay entry fee at park entrance, & proceed to Marsh boardwalk to meet group.
Public Transportation: n/a but bicycles feasible to bird the park.
Duration: Rest stops and lunch break will occur throughout the day. Preferable to bring a packed lunch and drink.
Approximate Distance: Distances depend on local birding info at time of the trip.
Terrain: mostly flat but good footwear required.
Gradient: Flat.
Trail Surfaces: paved. May hike on beach near the Tip.
Accessibility: Wet conditions possible.
Washrooms: At several locations in the park, including the marsh boardwalk, the Visitor Centre, and the Tip area.
Land Acknowledgement for Point Pelee National Park :
We are on the traditional territory of the Three Fires Confederacy of First Nations, composed of the Ojibwa, the Odawa, and the Potawatomi. Specifically, this is the home of Caldwell First Nation, and part of the house of Walpole Island First Nation. We acknowledge the caregivers of this land and all the moccasins that have travelled it over time.
What you need to know
OFO welcomes all people who are interested in birds and birding and strives to create an inclusive, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. OFO trip leaders are volunteers who generously offer their time to share their knowledge and passion for birds with others.
Beginner Birders: Most OFO trips are suitable for beginner birders. Please let the trip leader know if you are new to birding when you arrive.
Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics: Participants are expected to review OFO’s Code of Conduct and Code of Birding Ethics before the trip.
Transportation: All participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the field trip. Public transit information, if available, is included in the trip description. Car pooling is not encouraged at this time due to COVID-19.
Meeting Time: Please arrive a few minutes before the start time. Please contact the trip leader if a cell number is provided, If you are running late or cannot attend.
What to wear: Wear sturdy footwear and dress appropriately for the weather, season, and terrain. Long pants and closed shoes or boots are recommended as protection from the elements, ticks, and other biting insects. In bright light, a hat with a large brim will make it easier to see birds.
What to bring: Please bring your ID and health card, a mask, enough water for the duration of the trip, snacks, a packed lunch for a longer trip, and money for park entrance and ferry fees. Depending on the season, sunscreen, insect repellant, and a topical insect bite treatment such as Afterbite or Benadryl are recommended.
Optics and Cameras: Please bring your choice of binoculars, optional scope, and camera. Please contact the Field Trips Coordinator in advance by email at fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you require loaner binoculars. We will do our best to provide a pair.
Leaving early: Trip leaders understand that not everyone will be able to stay for the duration of the trip. If you must leave early, please inform the trip leader.
Rest stops and lunch breaks: Trip leaders will include rest stops and lunch breaks but if you require additional rest stops, please inform the trip leader, so they can accommodate your request.
Safety and First Aid: Trip leaders are volunteers. They are not trained in first aid and cannot provide medical help in the case of an accident or administer medication. When driving, please follow the rules of the road. Exercise caution when parking on the side of the road and getting out of your car.
Accessibility: OFO aims to provide accessible birding trips which are welcoming and enjoyable for all. If you have any questions about the trip, or require accommodations, please contact the trip leader in advance, by emailing fieldtrips@ofo.ca. Please allow a few days for a response.
Contact: Please email fieldtrips@ofo.ca if you have any questions or concerns.
