Birding in Algonquin Park & Oxtongue Lake
Discover over 275 species across forests, lakes, and trails in one of Canada’s premier birding destinations
Prime Birding Season Awaits
April and May represent the pinnacle of birding season in Algonquin Park. As winter’s grip loosens, the park transforms into a symphony of bird songs and vibrant activity. Spring migration brings an incredible diversity of species, making every trail walk an adventure of discovery.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just beginning your journey into wildlife observation, Algonquin’s accessible trails and diverse habitats offer unparalleled opportunities to witness nature’s most spectacular seasonal event.
Why Algonquin is a Birding Paradise
Wildlife & Moose Watching
Observe magnificent moose and diverse wildlife in their natural spring habitat.
Over 275 Species Recorded
An impressive diversity that includes both common and rare species, making every birding expedition a potential for new discoveries and memorable sightings.
141 Breeding Species
Witness the complete life cycle of numerous bird species as they establish territories, build nests, and raise their young in this protected wilderness.
Vast Lakes & Wilderness
Pristine waterways and untouched wilderness areas provide critical habitat for waterfowl, raptors, and countless other species in their natural environment.
Birds You Can Spot All Year Round
Gray Jay (Canada Jay)
Blue Jay
Black-capped Chickadee
Ruffed Grouse
Spruce Grouse
Barred & Great Horned Owls
Pileated Woodpecker
Evening Grosbeak
Spring Migrants
Spring brings an exciting influx of migratory birds, transforming Algonquin into a bustling hub of avian activity and creating unforgettable birding experiences.
Indigo Buntings
Brilliant blue males arrive in late spring, their vibrant plumage creating stunning contrasts against the fresh green foliage.
Great Blue Herons
Majestic wading birds return to establish territories along the park's pristine shorelines and quiet bays.
Brown Thrashers
Skilled mimics with extensive song repertoires, these rusty-brown birds bring complex melodies to the spring chorus.
Wood Thrushes
Their flute-like songs echo through the deciduous forests, creating one of spring's most enchanting soundscapes.
Ruby-throated Hummingbirds
Jewel-like visitors that bring magic to garden areas and forest clearings with their incredible aerial acrobatics.
Bald Eagles
Magnificent raptors patrol the lakes and rivers, their impressive wingspans and fishing prowess captivating all observers.
What Birders Are Spotting Right Now
Great Blue Herons
Multiple sightings along Oxtongue Lake shoreline and Cache Lake. Best viewing times are early morning and late afternoon when they’re actively fishing in shallow waters near fallen logs and rocky outcrops.
Turkey Vultures
Soaring high above the Mizzy Lake Trail and Highway 60 corridor. These impressive scavengers are easily identified by their distinctive V-shaped flight pattern and bare red heads. Peak activity during midday thermal currents.
Killdeer
Active around the Visitor Centre parking areas and sandy shorelines. Their distinctive broken-wing display behavior has been observed as they protect their ground nests. Listen for their loud “kill-deer” calls echoing across open areas.
Spruce Grouse
Spotted along the Centennial Ridges Trail and Track and Tower Trail. These elusive forest dwellers are often seen foraging for conifer needles and berries. Approach quietly as they can be surprisingly tame when undisturbed.
American Bitterns
Rare sightings in the marshy areas of Mizzy Lake and Costello Creek. These secretive herons are masters of camouflage, often freezing with bills pointed skyward when threatened. Best spotted during dawn and dusk hours.
Complete Your Birding Experience
After a day of birding and hiking through Algonquin’s pristine wilderness, return to the comfort of our lakeside inn. Enjoy a hearty dinner while sharing the day’s discoveries with fellow nature enthusiasts, then relax by the fireplace as the sounds of evening birds create nature’s perfect lullaby.
Wake up to the dawn chorus right outside your window, with prime birding locations just steps away from your comfortable accommodations.