Lesser Slave River Community Guide Spring 2016 | Page 8

Spring Bird Migration in our Region
As the snow melts, the days lengthen and temperatures warm, we welcome our beloved
migrant birds back to the region. The forest comes alive with birdsong as the warblers
and sparrows begin pouring in, having travelled from wintering grounds in the southern
United States, and Central and South America.
Like people, nesting birds often have specific requirements for their “dream homes”. In
willow thickets you might spot the bright plumage of a common yellowthroat, while in
a spruce wood you’ll hear the black-throated green warbler. Perhaps the most widely
heard forest bird song in the MD belongs to the white-throated sparrows, singing “Oh,
sweet Canada!” in pleasant trilling notes to celebrate the return to their summer home.
Every spring, the Lesser Slave Lake Bird Observatory and Alberta Parks celebrate the
return of the neo-tropical migrants during the Songbird Festival. This year’s festival will
be extra special as the Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation celebrates its tenth birthday.
The Festival will be held May 28 and 29 at the Boreal Centre. Come enjoy guided bird
hikes, a pancake breakfast, birthday cake, workshops, and activities for all ages!
SPRING 2016
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Community Guide
780.849.4888
mdlsr.ca