This kind of fun is for the birds!

Join park staff, experienced volunteer birders and the Friends for their Annual Bird Count and a fundraising continental breakfast on Sunday, May 19 – rain or shine.

Migrate over to the park and learn about local bird species on a hike with park naturalist Tobi Kiesewalter at the Lally Homestead (located about 2 kilometres past the main park entrance) at 7:30 a.m., then head back to the Park Store area where Friends volunteers will have coffee, muffins and fruit skewers ready for the low price of $1 each to help you refuel between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. (Be sure to buy some canoe raffle tickets while you’re there, too!)

Experienced birders can take part in an earlier shift to help with the traditional bird count for the park. The blitz to beat current records begins at 5:30 a.m., and anyone interested in signing up for that activity should contact park interpreter Alida Lemieux at 613-267-5060, ext. 225. Early count participants will be paired up and sent to different parts of the park.

“On a typical count we might see 70 to 80 different species,” Tobi says. “We have a wide variety of species here because there are so many different types of habitat, and we always hope to see some of our more notable birds and species at risk, such as the cerulean warbler and golden-winged warbler.”

The 7:30 hike is designed for bird enthusiasts of various skill levels who are seeking an opportunity to go on a hike and listen for birds and other forest sounds. “It’s a great chance to introduce people to birding. They will learn how to spot various species and identify some calls.”

“This is a great time of year to come out and enjoy Murphys Point,” adds Stephanie Gray, Friends president. “The park is now open for the season and it’s a perfect time to see wildlife and spring wildflowers. As well, current Friends members, or those who become members that day, can receive free admittance to the park for this event and enjoy the facilities all day.” Members will also receive a coupon for a free ice cream cone at the Park Store, courtesy of the Friends’ Heritage Mica Days committee.

Binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent and a good pair of hiking boots or shoes are recommended for the bird count. Bring field guides if you have them.

A valid Friends’ membership card or a park day-use or camping permit is required to participate (either can be purchased at the event). For more information contact the park at 613-267-5060 or e-mail friendsofmurphyspointpark@yahoo.ca.

Hope to see you there!