The winter birding period, beginning December 1st and ending on the last day of February, is a rewarding time to bird in Nova Scotia. Most of our migratory breeding species have long since departed, as have passage migrants that spend some brief time here in the fall before continuing south, but the occasional straggler may remain. Many species that breed further north come to Nova Scotia to spend the winter in our relatively mild climate, and can only be seen here in the coldest part of the year. Finally, there are a good number of species that live in Nova Scotia year-round and can be seen more easily in winter than other seasons. Keeping a personal winter list is a great way to keep motivated when it is often easy to justify staying indoors on a cold day.
HISTORY
It has been 20 years since distinguished NSBS member Blake Maybank began keeping track of Nova Scotia's winter bird sightings. To his way of thinking, it was a worthwhile communal activity toward which birders could contribute, and something every province should take to heart. Though Blake has passed, the Nova Scotia Bird Society will be the stewards for his legacy of enthusiastic winter listing for years to come. Stop by throughout the winter season for updates to the official list.
We are very pleased to have Dominic Cormier continue tracking the sightings as a tribute to Blake's enthusiasm for this event.
View the Birds of Winter spreadsheet |