Spring Migration at Cootes Paradise: A Birding Workshop

Please note the only way to register for this adventure is on our website.

Spend the day exploring one of Ontario's most incredible birding destinations on the western cusp of Lake Ontario.

Our birding workshops are built around a simple idea: different locations reveal different birds, different habitats, and different nature experiences Next up is Cootes Paradise in Hamilton: one of Canada's premier birding destinations and a very different landscape from our last outing at Tommy Thompson. If you missed our Toronto workshop, this is a great place to start. If you were there, you already know why it's worth coming back.

Cootes Paradise is a sprawling 250-hectare wetlands conservation area at the head of Hamilton Harbour. It is officially recognized as a globally Important Bird Area and one of the most significant bird habitats in southern Ontario. The marsh, surrounding mudflats and adjacent Carolinian forest support an incredible diversity of species, especially during spring migration when waterfowl, waders and songbirds pour through the area in huge numbers.

Whether you’re completely new to birding or looking to discover a new local hotspot, this workshop is a perfect starting point. Enjoy a relaxing, guided birdwatching walk through this stunning area with our expert birder, Pedro. Along the way, you’ll learn how to identify local and migratory birds and use binoculars confidently, while gaining a deeper appreciation for the rhythms of the natural world.

Take time to slow down, listen, and connect with nature as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem, leaving with new skills, fresh perspective, and a renewed sense of calm.

Please note that binoculars are included in the cost of the adventure.

Highlights
Wetland Migration Hotspot – Cootes Paradise is a designated Important Bird Area and one of the richest marsh habitats on the Great Lakes, drawing thousands of birds during spring migration.
Professional Birder - Learn from Pedro Hernandez, founder of the popular Instagram account Outdoor Commute
Binoculars Included – Each participant gets to use a pair of high-quality NOCS binoculars for the day.

Event cost: $65+HST - $30 optional transport available.
Register here.

About Wilderness Union
Wilderness Union is deliberate about building an outdoors community that connects you to the life-changing magic of the outdoors and helps you find your people.

Members range from 20-40 years old. The group is a mix of GTA locals and newcomers to Toronto from within Canada and abroad.

Attendance numbers on Meetup don't reflect our actual event attendance - we typically have 15-20 community members at each event. Large enough that there's someone new to meet but small enough that it's not overwhelming!

Learn more at our website www.wildernessunion.com