Local Knowledge

Birdwatch Like a Local

Situated on the eastern edge of North America, St. John’s serves as a crucial stopover for migratory birds and hosts a variety of seabird colonies, wetlands, and forested areas. Birders visiting this vibrant city should be equipped with local knowledge to make the most of their trip, including understanding the best birding seasons, key hotspots such as Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi Lake, and being aware of local pests and weather conditions. Familiarity with these factors will enhance birdwatching excursions and contribute to a memorable and successful birding adventure in St. John’s.

Home

Plan Your Visit

How to See Them

Seasons & Weather

ST. JOHN’S WEATHER

Spring (April to June)

Highlights: Arrival of migratory songbirds, shorebirds, and seabirds.
Species: Warblers, sandpipers, puffins, and other seabirds.

Summer (July to August)

Highlights: Peak breeding season for many birds.
Species: Nesting seabirds, shorebirds, songbirds.

Fall (September to November)

Highlights: Fall migration, with many species heading south.
Species: Migratory songbirds, shorebirds, waterfowl.

Winter (December to March)

Highlights: Overwintering species and occasional rarities.
Species: Snowy Owls, Common Eiders, various gulls, and finches.

Habitats

Seabird Colonies: Newfoundland is famous for its seabird colonies, such as those at Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve and Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. These areas host large populations of puffins, murres, kittiwakes, and other seabirds.
Estuaries and Bays: Coastal areas, including estuaries and bays, provide critical feeding and nesting sites for shorebirds and waterfowl. Birds such as sandpipers, plovers, and ducks are commonly found in these habitats
Boreal Forests: Much of Newfoundland is covered by boreal forests, which are home to a variety of songbirds, woodpeckers, and birds of prey. Species like the Gray Jay, Black-backed Woodpecker, and the Boreal Owl thrive in these forests.
Wetlands: Inland wetlands, including bogs, fens, and marshes, are crucial for species such as the American Bittern, Wilson’s Snipe, and various sparrows. These wetlands provide nesting sites and abundant food sources.
Tundra and Barrens: In the northern and highland regions, tundra and barren landscapes support species adapted to harsh conditions, such as the Rock Ptarmigan and Snowy Owl.

Pests

Blackflies: Common in the warmer months, particularly in forested and wetland areas. Their bites can be irritating and persistent.
Mosquitoes: Also prevalent in warmer months, especially around wetlands, ponds, and bogs. They can be a nuisance and pose a risk of transmitting diseases, although the risk is generally lower in Newfoundland compared to more tropical regions.
Ticks: While less common than in other parts of North America, ticks can still be found, especially in grassy and wooded areas. Some species can carry Lyme disease, so precautions like wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent are advisable.
Bears: Black bears are present in Newfoundland. While they generally avoid humans, it’s important to be aware of their presence, especially when birding in more remote or forested areas.
Moose: While not pests in the traditional sense, moose are abundant and can pose a danger if encountered unexpectedly, particularly on roads.
Poison Ivy: Though not widespread, poison ivy can be found in some areas. It’s important to recognize and avoid it to prevent skin irritation.